Make vs. Give: What's the Difference?
Edited by Sawaira Riaz || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 18, 2023
Make refers to create, construct, or produce something. Give refers to present, offer, or transfer something to someone.
Key Differences
"Make" implies creating or constructing something new, like making a meal. "Give," however, implies transferring something from one person to another, such as giving a gift.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
"Make" can denote creating a plan or decision, like making a choice. "Give" is often used in the context of offering information or advice, like giving an opinion.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
"Make" often refers to physical creation, like making a table, it can also mean to cause a particular situation or emotion, like making someone happy. While, "give" can also have abstract uses, like giving someone hope.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2023
Both "make" and "give" are frequently used, but "make" is more versatile in describing various creation processes. "Give" is more about the act of transferring or bestowing something.
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Common expressions with "make" include making a bet or making a promise, which imply initiating an action or commitment. "Give," in expressions like giving up or giving in, often indicates a transfer of control or yielding.
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Expressions
Making a decision, making a joke
Giving a speech, giving a chance
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
Abstract Use
Causing emotions or situations
Bestowing intangible elements like respect
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
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Make and Give Definitions
Make
To prepare or put together something, like food.
He is making dinner for the family.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Give
To present or deliver something formally.
The CEO will give a speech at the conference.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
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Give
To freely transfer possession of something to someone.
He decided to give his old books to the library.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Make
To form by combining materials or elements.
Children love making sandcastles at the beach.
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
Give
To yield or relent under pressure.
The door finally gave under the repeated blows.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Make
To earn or acquire money or profit.
She makes a good living as a freelance writer.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2023
Give
To allow someone to have or use something.
She gave her friend permission to use her car.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2023
Make
To cause to exist or happen; bring about; create
Made problems for us.
Making a commotion.
Sumera Saeed
Mar 18, 2023
Make
To bring into existence by shaping, modifying, or putting together material; construct
Make a dress.
Made a stone wall.
Sumera Saeed
Mar 18, 2023
FAQs
What does 'make' mean?
'Make' typically means to create or construct something.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Is 'make' used in idiomatic expressions?
Yes, like "make up your mind" or "make ends meet."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Is 'make' used with decisions?
Yes, for example, "make a choice" or "make a decision."
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Can 'make' refer to earning money?
Yes, in phrases like "make a living" or "make money."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
Can 'make' mean to cause something?
Yes, like "make trouble" or "make someone happy."
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
Is 'make' used in business contexts?
Yes, such as "make a profit" or "make a deal."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
Can 'make' indicate forcing someone to do something?
Yes, as in "The teacher made the students redo the assignment."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 18, 2023
Can 'make' be used for preparing food?
Yes, e.g., "make dinner" or "make a sandwich."
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Is 'give' used in expressions?
Yes, for example, "give someone a chance" or "give up."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
Does 'give' relate to providing information?
Yes, like in "give advice" or "give an explanation."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
Does 'make' imply success in its action?
Not always. It suggests an attempt or process, like "make an effort."
Sumera Saeed
Nov 18, 2023
What is the basic meaning of 'give'?
'Give' primarily means to freely transfer possession of something to someone.
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
Is 'give' used in the sense of attributing?
Yes, as in "give credit" or "give blame."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
Can 'give' mean to concede in an argument?
Yes, in phrases like "give in" or "give ground."
Aimie Carlson
Nov 18, 2023
Does 'give' apply to physical actions?
Yes, in contexts like "give a hug" or "give a handshake."
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Is 'make' used in the context of arriving on time?
Yes, as in "make it to a meeting on time."
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Is 'give' used in the context of hosting?
Yes, as in "give a party" or "give a dinner."
Harlon Moss
Nov 18, 2023
Can 'give' mean to yield under pressure?
Yes, in phrases like "the bridge gave under the weight."
Janet White
Nov 18, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
