Make Do vs. Make Due – Which is Correct?
Quick Summary
The terms make do and make due are often confused, but they have distinct meanings. Make do refers to managing with limited resources, while make due is a common misspelling. Understanding the correct usage of these phrases can enhance your communication skills.
Make Do vs. Make Due – Which is Correct?
The correct phrase is make do, which means to cope with what is available or to manage with limited resources. On the other hand, make due is a common misspelling of the former and does not hold any meaningful interpretation in English. It is important to recognize the correct phrase to convey your message accurately.
| Word | When to Use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Make Do | When you have to manage with what you have | We had to make do with an old car for our road trip. |
| Make Due | Incorrect spelling of ‘make do’ | N/A |
How to Use Make Do
To use make do correctly, you should apply it in contexts where resources are limited, and adaptation is necessary.
Example 1: During the hurricane, we had to make do with candles when the power went out.
Example 2: She learned to make do with a few supplies instead of buying new ones for the project.
How to Use Make Due
The term make due is typically used incorrectly, as it is not a recognized phrase in English. Avoid using this term and opt for make do instead.
Example 1: Incorrect usage: We should make due with what we have.
Example 2: Incorrect usage: I can make due until I get my new tool.
Exceptions in Usage
Since make due is simply a misspelling of the correct phrase, there are no exceptions in usage. Always use make do when referring to managing with limited resources.
Practice Exercises
Provide at least 5 exercises for readers to test themselves:
- Fill in the blank: We will have to __________ with these old tools.
- Identify the mistake: It was tough, but we made due with the left-over food.
- Correct the sentence: I can make due until I get my paycheck.
- Choose the right phrase: In a tight situation, one must learn to __________.
- Explain the meaning of: We made do with what we had.
Answer Key
- make do
- Correction: made do
- make do
- make do
- It means to manage with limited resources.
Conclusion
Understanding the distinction between make do and make due is essential for clear communication. Remember to use make do when discussing resourcefulness, and avoid the incorrect term entirely.
