The expression "make do with" means to manage or cope with something that is not ideal, sufficient, or of the desired quality. It implies using what is available, even if it's not the best option. The meaning is semi-idiomatic because while "make" and "do" have their own meanings, the combination creates a specific meaning of accepting a less-than-perfect situation.
The register is neutral to slightly informal.
The grammatical pattern is typically: make do with + noun/pronoun/clause. The "with" preposition is essential.
Typical objects following "with" include: whatever is available, a substitute, or a limited resource. It often implies resourcefulness in the face of constraints.
The components of "make do with" cannot be separated. You cannot insert words between "make," "do," and "with."
What sounds unnatural: using the wrong preposition (e.g., "make do for"), using a different verb (e.g., "do do with"), or separating the components of the phrasal verb.
"Instead, they must make do with history." — The Economist
"Men generally make do with pockets." — The New York Times - Arts
"They'll make do with what they've got." — The New York Times
"She's trying to make do with $58." — The New York Times
"Before that I'd had to make do with lime juice"." — Independent
Examples sourced from https://ludwig.guru/s/make+do+with
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| get by | Similar meaning, but implies surviving or managing with difficulty. |
| cope with | More formal and emphasizes the act of dealing with a difficult situation. |
| manage with | A more direct and less idiomatic synonym. |
| make the best of | Focuses on finding the positive aspects of a less than ideal situation. |
| scrape by | Implies barely surviving or managing with very limited resources. |
| make shift | To use what is available, even if it's not ideal. Often used adjectivally (a makeshift solution). |
| rough it | To live without the usual comforts and conveniences. |
| Expression | Meaning | Grammatical Pattern | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| make do with | To manage or cope with something that is not ideal | make do with + noun/pronoun/clause | Neutral to slightly informal |
No, the parts of the phrasal verb "make do with" cannot be separated. It must remain as a unit. For example, it is incorrect to say, "make quickly do with" – the adverb cannot interrupt the phrase.
While both "make do with" and "get by" imply managing with limited resources, "get by" often suggests a greater degree of difficulty and struggle. "Make do with" simply means using what's available, whereas "get by" implies barely surviving or managing with very little.
The correct preposition to use with "make do" is "with." It's a common mistake to use other prepositions like "for" or "in." Remember: "make do with" is the correct and idiomatic usage.
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