Make: meaning, definitions and examples

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make

 

[meɪk ]

Definitions

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.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'make' comes from the Old English 'macian', which means to cause or to build.
  • In Middle English, 'maken' broadened the word's application to include any act of creation.
  • 'Make' has evolved through languages, showing its importance across cultures.

Pop Culture

  • The phrase 'make it big' is often used in entertainment and business, highlighting the ambition to achieve great success.
  • In DIY culture, 'make' refers to crafting and building projects, celebrated in events like Maker Faires.
  • Popular TV shows have featured 'make' in their titles, like 'Make It or Break It', emphasizing competition in creative fields.

Science

  • In chemistry, 'making' or creating compounds involves combining elements, demonstrating change at a molecular level.
  • In programming, 'make' is a tool that helps in automating software builds, streamlining code creation.
  • Animal behaviors often show 'making', such as beavers making dams, illustrating instinctual creation in nature.

Psychology

  • 'Making' is linked to creativity, which engages the brain's problem-solving areas and enhances cognitive function.
  • Studies show that engaging in 'making' activities can boost happiness and well-being, fostering a sense of accomplishment.
  • Art therapy often emphasizes 'making' as a way to express emotions and improve mental health.

Literature

  • Literary works often explore themes of 'making', reflecting on the creative process, like in Mary Shelley’s 'Frankenstein'.
  • Authors often use 'make' to illustrate character development and transformation in narratives.
  • Poems and stories can invite readers to 'make' their own meanings, emphasizing personal interpretation.

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

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.