MAKE | Meaning and Usage from Cambridge Learner’s Dictionary

Definition

Make — to create, produce, or cause something to exist. The verb often describes performing an action, forming something new, or causing a particular result.

Core Meanings

To produce or create something
Example: They make cars in that factory.
To perform an action or bring about a result
Example: You made her laugh.
To promise, say, or agree to do something
Example: He made a promise to call her.
To prepare or arrange something
Example: She made dinner for the family.
To earn or achieve something
Example: He makes good money in his new job.
To become or be suitable for a role
Example: She’ll make a great teacher.

Common Expressions

Make a decision – to decide something
Make friends – to form new friendships
Make sure – to check or confirm
Make up your mind – to choose or decide
Make it – to succeed or arrive

Grammar Notes

Regular verb: make – made – made
Often used with objects: make something happen
Used in many idioms and phrases expressing effort, success, or production.

“Make” is one of the most flexible verbs in English, connecting action, creation, and achievement in countless everyday expressions.

Author’s Summary: The verb “make” expresses creation, action, and success—one of English’s most adaptable and frequently used words.

Cambridge Dictionary — 2025-11-26

Definition

Core Meanings

Common Expressions

Grammar Notes

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