Make: meaning, definitions and examples

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make

 

[ meɪk ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

action

To create, form, or produce something by combining various elements.

Synonyms

create, generate, produce.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
make

This is often used for general activities or tasks you do by hand or with effort. It can describe the creation of both physical and abstract things.

  • I made a cake for her birthday.
  • He makes a lot of noise when he plays.
create

This is used when focusing on bringing something new into existence, often emphasizes originality and effort. It implies a creative or imaginative process.

  • She created a beautiful painting.
  • They created a new way to solve the problem.
produce

Used to describe the manufacturing or agricultural process. Can indicate large-scale or industrial production.

  • The factory produces thousands of cars each week.
  • Farmers produce crops for the local market.
generate

Often used in technical or formal contexts to describe the production of energy, money, or data. Indicates a systematic or mechanical process.

  • The new dam will generate enough electricity for the entire city.
  • This job generates a lot of revenue.

Examples of usage

  • She will make a cake for the party.
  • He can make a sculpture out of clay.
  • Can you make a reservation for dinner?
Context #2 | Verb

achieve

To achieve or attain a particular status, position, or condition.

Synonyms

accomplish, achieve, attain.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
make

Repetition. General use for creating or producing something. Can be tangible or abstract.

  • This is a duplicate; refer to the first 'make' entry for examples
achieve

Used when reaching a significant goal or milestone, implying success after effort. Often used in formal contexts.

  • She achieved her dream of becoming a doctor
  • The team achieved outstanding results this year
attain

Often used in more formal contexts to describe reaching a desired level, state, or goal, usually with sustained effort.

  • He attained the highest rank in the military
  • She attained a high level of proficiency in piano
accomplish

Used to describe completing a task or goal, often involving effort and skill.

  • He accomplished his goal of running a marathon
  • We accomplished all we set out to do in the project

Examples of usage

  • She worked hard to make it to the top of the company.
  • He finally made his dream come true.
  • They made a fortune by investing wisely.
Context #3 | Noun

brand

A recognized brand or type of product.

Synonyms

brand, model, type.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
make

Commonly used when referring to the manufacturer of a product, especially vehicles or machinery.

  • The make of this car is Toyota.
  • What make is your washing machine?
brand

Typically used to denote the company or name associated with a product, often relating to consumer goods like clothing, electronics, and other personal items.

  • Nike is a popular brand of athletic wear.
  • Which brand of smartphone do you prefer?
type

Used to categorize or classify products based on their characteristics or uses, rather than their make or model.

  • What type of cuisine do you like?
  • This is the type of camera professionals use.
model

Used to specify a particular design or version of a product, often in the context of vehicles, electronics, and appliances.

  • The latest model of the iPhone has many new features.
  • I drive a 2020 model Ford Focus.

Examples of usage

  • Nike is a popular make of athletic shoes.
  • This car is a high-quality make.
  • I prefer this make of coffee over others.

Translations

Translations of the word "make" in other languages:

🇵🇹 fazer

🇮🇳 बनाना

🇩🇪 machen

🇮🇩 membuat

🇺🇦 робити

🇵🇱 robić

🇯🇵 作る (tsukuru)

🇫🇷 faire

🇪🇸 hacer

🇹🇷 yapmak

🇰🇷 만들다 (mandeulda)

🇸🇦 يصنع (yasna)

🇨🇿 dělat

🇸🇰 robiť

🇨🇳 做 (zuò)

🇸🇮 narediti

🇮🇸 gera

🇰🇿 жасау

🇬🇪 გაკეთება (gaketeba)

🇦🇿 etmək

🇲🇽 hacer

Etymology

The word 'make' has Old English origins, deriving from the word 'macian' meaning to construct or form. Over time, the word evolved in Middle English to 'maken' before settling on its current form. 'Make' has been a fundamental word in the English language for centuries, reflecting the human drive to create and achieve.

See also: makeover, maker, makeup, making, remake.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #81, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.