Correct spelling for make [Infographic]

make sb sweat The idiom "make someone sweat" actually means to cause someone to feel anxious, nervous, or uncomfortable due to pressure or difficult circumstances. It implies creating a situation or putting someone under stress where they are forced to work hard or face a challenging task that tests their abilities or capabilities.

make time The idiom "make time" means to set aside or find a period in one's schedule or routine for a particular activity or person, especially when one is busy or facing time constraints.

make tracks The idiom "make tracks" generally means to leave quickly or hastily. It is often used to indicate someone's departure or actions to start a journey or leave a certain place promptly.

make sb's mouth water The idiom "make sb's mouth water" means to cause someone to feel intense desire or anticipation for something, especially food, due to its enticing or appealing nature.

make waves The idiom "make waves" means to cause trouble or controversy, to disrupt the status quo, or to create disturbances in a situation or organization. It is often used to describe someone who challenges the existing system or authority and creates a significant impact or change.

make your way The idiom "make your way" means to navigate or progress through a situation or journey by one's own effort and determination. It implies taking steps, overcoming obstacles, and exerting oneself to achieve a goal or reach a destination.

make a/your mark (on sth) The idiom "make a/your mark (on sth)" means to leave a lasting and significant impact or impression on something, such as a situation, field, or endeavor. It signifies making a notable contribution or achieving recognition in a particular area.

make the scene The idiom "make the scene" refers to being present or attending a social event or gathering, typically in an impressive or noticeable way. It implies being actively involved or participating in a particular event or situation to achieve recognition or influence.

make sense The idiom "make sense" refers to something that is logical, understandable, and coherent. It means that a statement, argument, or situation is comprehensible and reasonable.

make (sm) sense (out) of sm or sth The idiom "make (sm) sense (out) of sm or sth" means to understand or comprehend something that may initially be confusing, unclear, or nonsensical. It implies the act of finding meaning or logic in a situation, concept, or information that may be difficult to grasp.

make short work of The idiom "make short work of" means to quickly and efficiently complete a task or defeat someone or something without much effort or difficulty. It implies that the task was easy or the opponent was weak and easily defeated.

make you sick The idiom "make you sick" refers to causing strong negative emotions, disgust, or intense dislike in someone. It can also imply that something is morally or ethically repugnant.

make sm sick The idiom "make someone sick" refers to causing someone to feel ill, disgusted, or disturbed, whether physically, emotionally, or psychologically. It can describe a situation or behavior that is highly unpleasant, repugnant, or offensive to somebody.

make the team The idiom "make the team" means to successfully qualify or be selected to join a specific group or organization, especially one that involves sports or competitive activities. It typically refers to demonstrated skills, suitability, or meeting the required criteria to be a part of the team.

make war The idiom "make war" generally means to engage in a conflict or to undertake aggressive action against someone or something. It refers to the act of starting or initiating a war, either physically or metaphorically.

make water The idiom "make water" is an old-fashioned and somewhat humorous euphemism for urinating. It is a way of referring to the act of relieving oneself in a less direct and more polite manner.

make mouth water The idiom "make mouth water" is used to describe something that causes a strong desire or craving for food. It means that the sight, smell, or mention of a particular food or dish is so enticing that it stimulates the salivation or "watering" of one's mouth. It suggests that the food appears especially delicious and tempting.

make way The idiom "make way" means to clear a path or space for someone or something to pass through. It can also imply giving priority or yielding to someone or something.

put the make on The idiom "put the make on" means to flirt with or make romantic advances towards someone. It is used to describe someone's attempts to attract another person's attention or pursue a romantic or sexual relationship.

make move The idiom "make a move" typically means to take action or make a decision in a specific situation. It suggests that one should initiate a course of action, usually with the intention of achieving a desired outcome or progressing towards a goal. It can imply the need for proactive behavior or assertiveness. The idiom is often used in contexts related to personal relationships, business strategies, or competitive situations.

Make your mind up The idiom "make your mind up" means to reach a decision or form a definite opinion about something. It implies that someone has been indecisive or uncertain and encourages them to make a choice.

put the make on sb To "put the make on someone" is an idiomatic expression that means to make romantic or sexual advances towards someone, usually in a flirtatious or persuasive manner. It implies trying to initiate or pursue a romantic or sexual relationship with the person.

put the make on sm The idiom "put the make on someone" refers to someone making a romantic or flirtatious advance towards another person. It means to show interest or make an attempt to attract or seduce them.

make your peace with sth The idiom "make your peace with something" means to accept or come to terms with a situation, often one that is unavoidable or unchangeable. It suggests acknowledging and finding inner acceptance or resolution with a particular circumstance, person, or event, especially when it may involve letting go of negative emotions or grudges.

make your peace with sb The idiom "make your peace with sb" means to reconcile or resolve any conflicts, grievances, or disagreements with someone in order to restore friendly or harmonious relations. It can also refer to accepting a situation or outcome without further resistance or bitterness.

make sth of The idiom "make something of" means to achieve success, advancement, or progress in a particular field or endeavor. It refers to transforming or improving something into a more valuable or meaningful state. It can also imply turning a situation or opportunity into something beneficial or advantageous.

make time (with sm) The idiom "make time (with someone)" means to prioritize and set aside time to spend or meet with someone in order to connect, have a conversation, or engage in an activity together. It implies making an effort and rearranging one's schedule to accommodate the desired interaction.

Make mine sth. The idiom "Make mine sth." is a colloquial way to express a preference or desire for a particular thing. It is often used when ordering or requesting something in a casual setting. The phrase implies that the speaker would like to have the same thing as mentioned or specified.

make your way (smw) The idiom "make your way" means to progress or advance toward a destination or goal, often implying that the journey may not be easy or straightforward. It can be used in a literal sense, referring to physically moving from one place to another, or in a figurative sense, indicating progress in life, career, or any other path one is pursuing.

make mark The idiom "make a mark" means to achieve success or recognition in a particular field or endeavor. It refers to leaving a notable impression or impact on others.

make one's way The idiom "make one's way" means to proceed or advance, typically through difficult or challenging circumstances, towards a specific destination, goal, or achievement. It implies an individual's determination, effort, and resilience in navigating through obstacles to reach their desired destination or accomplish their objectives.

make someone's mouth water The idiom "make someone's mouth water" means to cause a strong desire or craving for something, usually food, by describing, showing, or presenting it in an enticing or tempting way.

make one's peace with The idiom "make one's peace with" means to accept or reconcile oneself with a situation, often with an unfavorable outcome or consequence. It refers to finding inner peace, forgiveness, or resolution in regards to a particular circumstance, person, or event.

make peace The idiom "make peace" means to resolve a conflict or dispute, often by finding common ground or reaching a compromise that leads to harmony and reconciliation between conflicting parties.

make news The idiom "make news" means to create or cause an event or action that attracts attention, garners media coverage, or becomes the subject of widespread discussion and reporting. It refers to an act or situation that generates newsworthy content.

make ready The idiom "make ready" means to prepare or get ready for a particular task or situation. It implies taking necessary actions or making necessary arrangements in advance to ensure readiness and efficiency.

make sail The idiom "make sail" refers to the act of setting sail or beginning a journey, particularly in relation to a ship or boat. It commonly implies the commencement of a voyage or the start of a specific endeavor.

make off The idiom "make off" means to leave or escape quickly, often with something stolen or without permission. It can also refer to departing in a hurry, fleeing from a situation, or running away.

make out The idiom "make out" generally refers to several different meanings depending on the context. Here are a few common definitions: 1. To engage in passionate kissing or physical intimacy with another person. Example: They were making out on the couch last night. 2. To manage or succeed despite challenges or difficulties. Example: Although he was tired, he made out pretty well on the test. 3. To understand or decipher something, often when it is unclear. Example: I can't make out what she's saying through the poor phone connection. 4. To claim or pretend that something is true or real, often without genuine evidence. Example: He made out he was a famous actor, but no one recognized him. It is important to note that

make over The idiom "make over" means to give a complete or significant transformation or change in appearance or structure. It usually refers to improving or renovating someone or something to create a fresh, new look or style. This can apply to physical makeovers such as personal appearance, fashion, or home renovation, as well as more abstract makeovers like personal development or rebranding.

make up The idiomatic expression "make up" has several meanings depending on the context. Here are some common definitions: 1. To reconcile or resolve a disagreement or conflict. Example: "After their argument, they need to make up and be friends again." 2. To invent or fabricate a story or information. Example: "Don't believe everything he says, he likes to make up stories." 3. To compensate for something missed or lost. Example: "I'll make up for the time I missed at work by working extra hours next week." 4. To apply cosmetics or beautify oneself. Example: "She takes a long time to make up before going out." 5. To constitute or form something. Example: "The team is made

make with The idiom "make with" means to perform, produce, or provide something. It often implies generating or delivering something promptly or as expected. The phrase can be used in a variety of contexts, referring to actions such as speaking, creating, providing information, or fulfilling an obligation.

on the make The idiom "on the make" refers to someone who is ambitiously seeking opportunities to advance their social or financial status. It generally implies that the person is eager to achieve success, often by using shrewd or opportunistic tactics.

make one's mark The idiom "make one's mark" means to achieve success, recognition, or leave a lasting impression in a particular field or endeavor. It often refers to a person's ability to make a significant impact or establish their influence in society or their chosen profession.

make shift The idiom "make shift" refers to the act of performing a temporary or makeshift solution or using whatever is available on hand in order to address a problem or situation. It implies adapting to the circumstances with limited resources or options.

make money The idiom "make money" refers to the act of earning or acquiring wealth or financial success. It implies engaging in activities that generate income or profits.

make sport of The idiom "make sport of" means to mock, ridicule, or ridicule someone or something in a playful or lighthearted manner. It involves enjoying or deriving amusement from someone's expense or misfortune.

make sure The idiom "make sure" means to take necessary measures or actions in order to ensure that something is done correctly, confirmed, or to eliminate any doubts or uncertainties. It implies the importance of verifying or guaranteeing a particular outcome or situation.

make talk The idiom "make talk" refers to engaging in conversation or initiating dialogue with someone. It implies creating an opportunity for communication or starting a discussion on a particular topic.

make nice The idiom "make nice" refers to the act of trying to resolve a conflict or improve a tense situation by being friendly, accommodating, or agreeable. It typically involves making amends, apologizing, or finding a way to reconcile differences in order to establish peace or harmony.

make time with The idiom "make time with" refers to the act of spending romantic or amorous moments with someone. It implies engaging in the pursuit of a romantic or flirtatious connection with another person.

make your/a mark (on something) The idiom "make your/a mark (on something)" means to leave a significant or lasting impact or impression on a person, situation, or place. It refers to making a notable contribution, achieving success, or establishing one's presence and influence.

make (one's) move The idiom "make (one's) move" typically means to take action or make a decisive decision in a situation, often in a strategic manner. It can refer to seizing an opportunity, asserting oneself, or initiating a plan or action.

make (a) great play of (something) The idiom "make (a) great play of (something)" means to emphasize, highlight, or draw considerable attention to something, especially in an exaggerated or showy manner. It refers to giving excessive importance, significance, or publicity to a particular situation, event, or achievement. It often connotes a deliberate attempt to impress or gain approval from others. For instance, someone might make a great play of their accomplishments to appear more successful or to attract attention.

make capital out of sth The idiom "make capital out of something" refers to exploiting or taking advantage of a situation or event to gain an advantage, often for personal or financial gain. It involves using something to benefit oneself or to make the most of it.

make headlines The idiom "make headlines" is used to describe an event or action that gains significant media attention or coverage, often featured as a prominent news story in newspapers or other media outlets. It suggests that the subject of the idiom has become widely known or has generated considerable public interest.

make ready to do sth The idiom "make ready to do sth" means to prepare or get oneself ready or prepared to do something. It suggests taking necessary actions or making necessary arrangements in advance in order to be fully prepared for a specific task, action, or event.

make (oneself) understood The idiom "make (oneself) understood" means to communicate in a way that ensures one's ideas, thoughts, or messages are clearly comprehended by others. It refers to the act of expressing oneself in a manner that eliminates confusion or misinterpretation, allowing others to grasp and understand the intended meaning effectively.

make do and mend The idiom "make do and mend" means to manage with whatever resources or materials are available in order to repair or improve something, typically due to a lack of funds or resources to replace it with something new. It emphasizes the ability to be resourceful and creative with limited means.

make a play The idiom "make a play" typically means to take action or make a move, especially in a strategic or competitive situation, with the intention of achieving a specific outcome or advantage. It often refers to making a bold or decisive move in pursuit of a goal or to influence a particular situation.

make one's flesh creep The idiom "make one's flesh creep" means to cause someone to feel a strong sense of fear, disgust, or discomfort. It refers to something that is extremely unsettling or creepy, creating a physical reaction such as goosebumps or shivers.

make look good The idiom "make look good" means to take actions or make efforts in order to enhance or improve the appearance or reputation of someone or something. It often implies presenting a favorable image to others, sometimes without necessarily addressing underlying issues or problems.

make certain of something/of doing something The idiom "make certain of something/of doing something" means to take all possible precautions or measures in order to ensure the accomplishment or fulfillment of a particular task, action, or outcome. It implies verifying or confirming the certainty, accuracy, or success of a specific thing or action.

make a poor fist of (something) The idiom "make a poor fist of (something)" means to perform a task, activity, or endeavor badly or incompetently. It refers to a person's inability or lack of skill in handling a particular matter or situation.

make flesh crawl The idiom "make flesh crawl" is used to describe something or someone that causes a strong feeling of disgust, fear, or revulsion. It implies that the sight, sound, or presence of the subject creates an uncomfortable sensation, often described as a shiver or tingle running down one's spine.

can't make heads or tails of The idiom "can't make heads or tails of" means to be unable to understand or interpret something, especially when it is confusing or unclear.

make a name for yourself The idiom "make a name for yourself" means to attain fame, recognition, or reputation by achieving something notable, remarkable, or significant. It refers to establishing oneself as someone of importance or distinction in a particular field or area of pursuit.

make much of sth The idiom "make much of something" means to give a lot of attention, importance, or emphasis to something. It often implies that one is expressing praise, admiration, or value for that particular thing.

make a dent in something The idiom "make a dent in something" means to make progress or achieve a small but noticeable impact on a task, problem, or goal. It suggests that although the effort may not completely solve or finish the task, it has at least made a visible difference or taken a step towards a larger accomplishment.

make good sb's sth The idiom "make good sb's sth" means to fulfill or compensate for someone's loss, injury, or damage. It usually implies taking responsibility or making amends for a wrongdoing or mistake.

make a, no, some, etc. difference The idiom "make a difference" means to have a significant impact or effect on a situation or outcome. It implies that one's actions, decisions, or contributions can bring about positive or meaningful change.

make mention of sm or sth The idiom "make mention of someone or something" means to talk about or refer to someone or something briefly.

make it with sb The idiom "make it with sb" is considered slang and typically means to engage in a romantic or sexual relationship with someone. It implies a level of mutual attraction and desire between two individuals.

make no mistake about it The idiom "make no mistake about it" means to emphasize or assert that something is unquestionably true or certain. It is used to remove any doubt or ambiguity about a statement or situation.

make a name for The idiom "make a name for" means to establish a reputation or become well-known in a particular field or area. It refers to the act of gaining recognition and respect for one's accomplishments or skills.

make a clean breast of something (or of it) The idiom "make a clean breast of something (or of it)" means to confess or reveal a secret or wrongdoing, usually in a complete and honest manner. It involves being open and truthful about something that has been hidden or kept secret for a long time.

make no apology/apologies for something The idiom "make no apology/apologies for something" means to not feel remorse or regret for something. It implies being unapologetic and confident about one's actions, choices, or beliefs, without feeling the need to justify or explain oneself.

make somebody's blood run cold The idiom "make somebody's blood run cold" means to cause someone to feel intense fear, horror, or shock. It indicates an action or statement that is so disturbing or terrifying that it evokes a strong physical reaction, usually described as a chilling sensation through one's veins.

Clothes make the man. The idiom "Clothes make the man" means that a person's outward appearance, particularly their choice of clothing, is essential in shaping others' perception of their character, status, or credibility. It suggests that one's attire has a significant impact on how they are initially perceived and can even influence others' judgment of their abilities or personality traits.

make/pull a face To "make/pull a face" is an idiom that means contorting or scrunching one's facial expression to display disapproval, disgust, or dislike towards something or someone. It involves distorting the features of the face to convey negative emotions or a lack of interest. This idiom can also be used to express amusement or teasing in a lighthearted context.

make a name for (oneself) The idiom "make a name for oneself" means to become well-known or establish a reputation, usually through noteworthy achievements or accomplishments. It implies that someone has distinguished themselves in their field or community, gaining recognition and respect from others.

make a day of it The idiom "make a day of it" means to dedicate an entire day to an activity or event, usually something enjoyable or special. It implies spending a significant amount of time and effort to fully engage in a particular experience or make the most of an occasion.

make allowances for sb/sth The idiom "make allowances for sb/sth" means to take into account or consider someone or something when making judgments, decisions, or allowances. It implies adjusting expectations or actions to accommodate a particular individual or circumstance.

make capital out of The idiom "make capital out of" means to take advantage of a situation, often by using it for personal gain or benefit. It refers to the act of making the most out of a particular circumstance or opportunity to achieve one's objectives.

make chin music The idiom "make chin music" means to engage in idle talk, chatter, or loud, meaningless conversation without taking any meaningful action or contributing anything valuable to a conversation or situation. It often refers to talking excessively without achieving anything constructive.

make a mess/hash of something/of doing something The idiom "make a mess/hash of something/of doing something" means to do something in a careless or disorderly manner, resulting in a chaotic or unsuccessful outcome. It implies that the task or situation has been mismanaged or mishandled, causing confusion or complications.

Do you want to make sth of it? The idiom "Do you want to make something of it?" is an expression used to challenge or confront someone or to ask if they want to start a fight or confrontation. It implies a readiness to engage in a disagreement or conflict to settle a matter.

make it or break it The idiom "make it or break it" means that someone is at a critical point in their life or a project where they have the opportunity to succeed or fail. It implies that the outcome of their efforts will determine their future success or failure.

make life miserable for sm The idiom "make life miserable for someone" means to deliberately cause someone to experience great unhappiness, discomfort, or difficulty in their life. It refers to a person's actions or behavior that consistently and intentionally creates a negative or unfavorable environment for someone else.

make sit up and take notice The idiom "make sit up and take notice" means to capture someone's attention, usually through something unexpected, impressive, or remarkable. It indicates getting someone to pay full attention and acknowledge the importance or significance of something.

put two and two together and make five The idiom "put two and two together and make five" means to draw an incorrect conclusion based on faulty or insufficient information. It implies making an error in logic or judgment by combining unrelated or contradictory facts, leading to an incorrect or irrational result.

make legal history The idiom "make legal history" refers to the act of setting a precedent or achieving a significant milestone in the field of law. It means to do something that has never been done before or to be involved in a groundbreaking legal case or decision that significantly impacts the interpretation or application of laws.

Do I make myself clear? The idiom "Do I make myself clear?" is a rhetorical question used to emphasize that the speaker expects the listener to understand their instructions, request, or statement completely and without any confusion. It implies that the speaker is seeking confirmation that their message has been comprehended.

make mincemeat (out) of someone The idiom "make mincemeat (out) of someone" means to defeat or overpower someone easily and decisively, often with force or violence. It implies that the person being defeated is utterly helpless and unable to offer any resistance. It is a figurative expression used to emphasize a complete and brutal defeat.

make sense of The idiom "make sense of" means to understand or comprehend something, especially when it is complex, confusing, or puzzling. It involves the process of interpreting information or situations to give them meaning and coherence.

make a stand The idiom "make a stand" means to take a firm and bold position or stance on a particular issue or situation, often in the face of opposition or adversity. It involves asserting one's beliefs, values, or principles and standing up for them regardless of the consequences or challenges that may arise.

you can lead/take a horse to water, but you canâ€™t make it drink The idiom "you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink" means that you can provide someone with the opportunity or necessary conditions to do something, but you cannot force or guarantee that they will actually do it.

the cowl does not make the monk The idiom "the cowl does not make the monk" means that one's appearance or external image does not necessarily reflect their true character or inner qualities. It implies that just because someone appears to be a certain way or belongs to a certain group, it does not guarantee that they possess the desired traits or qualities associated with that appearance or group.

make an honest woman of sb The idiom "make an honest woman of sb" refers to a situation where a man marries a woman after having a romantic or sexual relationship with her, typically implying that the woman's reputation or integrity may be called into question due to the unmarried status. By marrying her, the man is seen as confirming her respectability and honesty in society.

make change The idiom "make change" means to alter or modify a situation or circumstance, often through taking action or implementing different approaches or strategies. It can also refer to providing money in smaller denominations when giving back larger bills or to exchange one type of currency for another.

make conversation To "make conversation" means to engage in verbal communication with someone in order to maintain a social interaction or fill a space of silence. It involves initiating and sustaining dialogue, often by discussing various topics or sharing thoughts and opinions to keep the conversation going.

make a clean sweep (of something) The idiom "make a clean sweep (of something)" means to completely remove or clear away everything, leaving no trace or remnants behind. It often refers to achieving a total victory or successfully completing a task without any obstacles or opposition.

make a spectacle of oneself The idiom "make a spectacle of oneself" means to behave in a way that draws a lot of attention, often in a negative or embarrassing manner.

make an impression on The idiom "make an impression on" means to have a significant or lasting effect on someone or something, often related to how one is perceived or remembered.

make no apologies The idiom "make no apologies" refers to a person's refusal to express remorse, regret, or make excuses for their actions or choices. It means standing by one's decisions or behavior without feeling the need to justify or apologize for them.

make nonsense of sth The idiom "make nonsense of sth" means to render something confusing, illogical, or without meaning. It implies that the substance or significance of a certain thing is lost or diminished, making it difficult to decipher or understand.

make a habit of something The idiom "make a habit of something" means to develop a regular pattern of behavior or activity, often done unconsciously or routinely. It implies consistently performing a particular action or activity, typically due to repetition or regular practice.

can't make head or tail of The idiom "can't make head or tail of" means being unable to understand or comprehend something. It refers to a situation in which someone finds a topic or information so confusing or incomprehensible that they cannot make sense of it.

make something up of whole cloth The idiom "make something up of whole cloth" means to fabricate or invent something entirely from scratch, without any basis in truth or reality. It implies that what is being created is entirely fictional or false and lacks any factual or authentic elements.

make a scene Definition: "Make a scene" is an English idiom that means to behave in a disruptive, dramatic, or attention-seeking manner in public. It refers to acting in a way that attracts attention and may disturb the peace or disrupt a calm situation.

make mincemeat of The idiom "make mincemeat of" means to defeat or destroy someone or something easily and decisively, often with great force or skill. It implies complete domination or overwhelming defeat.

make a fuss over (someone or something) The idiom "make a fuss over (someone or something)" means to give excessive attention, concern, or praise to someone or something. It implies making a big deal out of a person or situation, usually in a positive and often exaggerated manner.

make advances to sm The idiom "make advances to someone" means to express romantic or sexual interest in someone, usually by flirting or attempting to start a romantic or sexual relationship with them.

make an example of sb The idiom "make an example of someone" means to punish or discipline someone in a severe or public manner in order to serve as a warning or deterrent to others.

make demands on The idiom "make demands on" means to expect or require someone to do something, often putting pressure on them or imposing certain conditions or criteria. It implies exerting control or influence over others to fulfill certain obligations or meet specific expectations.

make (the) headlines The idiom "make (the) headlines" refers to attracting significant attention or publicity, usually due to being involved in a noteworthy or newsworthy event. It implies that the person, event, or situation has captured the attention of the media and is being widely reported or discussed in news articles or broadcasts.

make (one's) flesh crawl The idiom "make (one's) flesh crawl" means to cause a strong feeling of disgust, fear, or revulsion in someone. It is often used to describe something that is disturbing, creepy, or unsettling.

make hard work of The idiom "make hard work of" refers to the act of making something more difficult or complicated than it needs to be, usually due to a person's lack of skill, knowledge, or efficiency. It describes a situation where someone is struggling or taking longer to complete a task or achieve a goal because of their unnecessary efforts or inefficiency.

make chalk of one and cheese of the other The idiom "make chalk of one and cheese of the other" means to treat two things or people very differently, typically showing a clear preference for one over the other. It signifies a significant distinction or contrast in treatment or value between two similar entities. The phrase suggests that one thing or person is highly regarded or favored, while the other is utterly disregarded or considered of little importance.

make arrangements to do something The idiom "make arrangements to do something" means to plan, organize, or coordinate the necessary details in order to accomplish a particular task or fulfill a specific purpose. It often involves making reservations, setting appointments, or coordinating schedules to ensure everything is prepared or agreed upon ahead of time.

make a boo-boo To "make a boo-boo" is an informal idiom used to describe making a mistake or an error, often in a minor or careless way. It implies doing something silly or foolish, resulting in an unintended or unfavorable outcome.

make it big The idiom "make it big" refers to achieving great success or becoming famous, usually in a particular field or industry. It implies the accomplishment of one's goals on a significant scale, often accompanied by wealth, recognition, or widespread influence.

make a beeline for sm or sth The idiom "make a beeline for someone or something" means to move quickly and directly towards a person or thing, typically with a strong sense of purpose or eagerness. It implies a focused and determined approach towards reaching a specific destination or objective without any detours or delays.

cannot make head or tail of something The idiom "cannot make head or tail of something" means to be unable to understand or comprehend something, usually due to its complexity, unclear presentation, or lack of logic.

make an appointment (with sm) The idiom "make an appointment (with someone)" means to arrange or schedule a specific time to meet or see someone, usually for a formal or professional purpose. It implies setting a fixed time and date to ensure both parties can dedicate their attention and availability to the meeting.

make a long story short The idiom "make a long story short" means to summarize a story or explanation quickly, often skipping or omitting unnecessary details in order to get to the main point or conclusion.

make a run at The idiom "make a run at" means to make an attempt or an effort to accomplish something, often with determination or ambition. It implies taking action towards a goal, putting in effort, and trying one's best to achieve success.

make old bones The idiom "make old bones" refers to living a long life or reaching old age. It implies that someone has survived or endured various challenges, illnesses, or dangerous situations, often indicating a level of resilience or perseverance.

make somebodyâ€™s blood run cold The idiom "make somebody's blood run cold" means to cause extreme fear, horror, or shock to someone. It signifies an event or situation that is so terrifying that it causes a physical reaction or induces a feeling of intense fear and coldness.

make someone's hair curl The idiom "make someone's hair curl" means to shock or horrify someone. It suggests that something or someone is so frightening or disturbing that it would cause one's hair to stand on end.

make mincemeat (out) of sm The idiom "make mincemeat (out) of someone" means to completely defeat or overpower someone, often in a physical or intellectual confrontation. It implies that the person being referred to will be easily and mercilessly defeated, as if they were reduced to minced meat or chopped into small, easily digestible pieces.

not know what to make of The idiom "not know what to make of" means to be bewildered or uncertain about something, often because it is unexpected, unusual, or difficult to understand or interpret.

make like The idiom "make like" is a colloquial expression that means to imitate or pretend to be someone or something. It is often used to convey the idea of acting or behaving in a particular manner, typically for entertainment or comedic purposes. For example, "He made like a monkey and swung from the branches" means he pretended to be a monkey and swung from the branches.

make bed (up The idiom "make bed up" means to arrange and tidy the sheets, blankets, and pillows on a bed to make it neat and ready for use. It involves spreading out and smoothing the bedding, arranging the pillows, and making sure everything looks orderly.

Many hands make light work The idiom "Many hands make light work" means that a task or job becomes easier and faster when many people contribute to it. It emphasizes the efficiency and speed that can be achieved when people work together as a team.

make your blood run cold The idiom "make your blood run cold" is used to describe a situation or event that is so frightening, appalling, or chilling that it causes extreme fear or horror. It implies that the incident is disturbing to such an extent that it sends shivers down your spine and leaves you feeling cold or numb with fear.

make inroads into sth The idiom "make inroads into something" means to make progress or gain success in a particular area or field. It refers to the act of penetrating or gaining a foothold in something, typically an industry, market, or domain, through effective and significant efforts.

make (out) after sm or sth The idiom "make (out) after sm or sth" typically means to engage in intimate physical contact or kissing with someone, often after a significant event or situation. It implies that two people are showing affection towards each other, often in a romantic or sexual context.

make something of The idiom "make something of" means to achieve success or create something valuable out of a particular situation, opportunity, or set of circumstances. It refers to the act of utilizing or developing one's resources, skills, or talents to transform or improve a given situation or thing.

make friends with The idiom "make friends with" means to form a positive connection or a friendly relationship with someone. It implies establishing rapport, trust, and harmony with another person.

can't make head nor tail of sth The idiom "can't make head nor tail of something" means that someone is unable to understand or comprehend something. It implies that the situation or information is confusing, jumbled, or incomprehensible to the person.

make a play for sth/sb The idiom "make a play for something/somebody" means to make a deliberate or strategic effort to acquire or gain the affection, attention, or possession of something or someone. It often implies making a move or taking action in order to achieve a desired outcome.

make your toes curl The idiom "make your toes curl" means to cause extreme embarrassment, discomfort, or cringe-worthy reaction. It describes a situation, event, or statement that is deeply unsettling, embarrassing, or awkward, so much so that it metaphorically causes one's toes to curl inward in response.

make a pitch for sth The idiom "make a pitch for something" means to make a persuasive or compelling argument to promote or advocate for something. It often refers to a sales or marketing effort where someone tries to convince others to support or invest in a particular product, idea, or cause.

make sm or sth available to sm The idiom "make someone or something available to someone" means to provide or offer someone or something to another person to use, access, or benefit from. It implies that the person or thing was previously inaccessible or not within reach, and now it is being made accessible or provided for the benefit or use of someone else.

make good (one's) escape The idiom "make good (one's) escape" means to successfully and swiftly leave a dangerous or unfavorable situation, often with great skill or stealth, in order to avoid capture, punishment, or other undesirable consequences.

make eyes at The idiom "make eyes at" refers to the act of flirting or showing romantic interest in someone through eye contact, facial expressions, or gestures. It implies attempting to attract the attention or affection of the other person.

make after The idiom "make after" refers to pursuing or chasing someone or something, often with the intent of catching or capturing them. It can also imply striving or working towards achieving a particular goal or objective.

make a noise, at make noises The idiomatic expression "make a noise" or "make noises" means to show disapproval, opposition, or dissent in a vocal or assertive manner. It refers to expressing one's dissatisfaction or disagreement with a situation or decision by making one's objections or concerns known, often loudly or vocally. The idiom implies taking action and not remaining silent, usually to influence or bring attention to a particular issue or problem.

make little of sth To "make little of something" means to belittle, downplay, or treat something as unimportant or insignificant. It refers to the act of minimizing the value, significance, or seriousness of a particular matter or issue.

make a clean breast of The idiom "make a clean breast of" means to confess without holding back or to reveal the whole truth about something, especially when it has been kept a secret or hidden. It refers to the act of openly admitting or disclosing information, often in a sincere and honest manner.

make (or lose or spend) money hand over fist The idiom "make (or lose or spend) money hand over fist" means to make, lose, or spend money quickly, easily, and in large amounts. It implies that the action is done with great speed or success, often suggesting that profits or expenses accumulate rapidly without much effort or restraint.

make a check over to The idiom "make a check over to" means to write a check in the name of someone or an organization to transfer money or make a payment. It implies the process of endorsing or transferring ownership of the funds to the recipient mentioned on the check.

make the most of sth The idiom "make the most of something" means to fully utilize or take advantage of a particular situation, opportunity, or resource in order to achieve the best possible result. It implies making the best use of what is available, often emphasizing the importance of maximizing one's potential or extracting the maximum benefit from a given circumstance.

make good weather of it The idiom "make good weather of it" typically means to deal with or handle a situation in a positive or optimistic manner, even if the circumstances are challenging or unfavorable. It refers to the ability to remain cheerful, resilient, and optimistic, despite difficult circumstances, and to make the best out of a situation.

make a day/night/evening/weekend of it The idiom "make a day/night/evening/weekend of it" means to extend or prolong the enjoyment or celebration of a specific period of time, such as making the most out of a day, night, evening, or weekend by engaging in various enjoyable activities or events. It implies maximizing the experience and creating lasting memories during that particular timeframe.

make a secret of sth The idiom "make a secret of something" means to keep something hidden or concealed from others. It suggests that the person intentionally chooses not to disclose or share certain information, often implying a level of exclusivity or confidentiality.

enough to make a cat laugh The idiom "enough to make a cat laugh" is used to describe something that is absurd, ridiculous, or humorous, often referring to a situation, event, or statement that is hard to believe or completely preposterous. It implies that even a cat, which supposedly does not possess a sense of humor, would find the mentioned thing amusing.

make a federal case of The idiom "make a federal case of" means to make an unnecessarily big deal or a major issue out of something that is not particularly significant or important. It implies exaggerating the importance or seriousness of a situation beyond its actual significance.

make good (at sth) The idiom "make good (at sth)" means to become successful or proficient in a particular activity or skill. It refers to the accomplishment or improvement in a specific area, typically through hard work, dedication, or skill development.

to make a long story short The idiom "to make a long story short" means to summarize or give a brief account or explanation of a situation, event, or narrative without going into unnecessary details or prolonging the story. It is used to quickly cut to the main point or conclusion of a story or discussion.

make sth seem like a picnic To make something seem like a picnic means to make it appear easy, simple, or enjoyable, despite it actually being challenging, difficult, or tedious.

make (all) the running The idiom "make (all) the running" means to take the initiative, make the most progress, or be the most active in a particular situation or endeavor. It refers to someone who is leading or doing most of the work while others follow or contribute less.

make sb's heart flutter The idiom "make someone's heart flutter" means to cause intense excitement, anticipation, or nervousness in someone. It describes the feeling of a sudden or heightened emotional response, often in a romantic or affectionate context.

not able to make head or tail of The idiom "not able to make head or tail of" means being unable to understand or make sense of something. It implies a situation where one is confused or unable to comprehend a particular matter or situation.

make amends The idiom "make amends" means to take action to correct or compensate for a mistake or wrongdoing committed towards someone, usually in order to repair a damaged relationship or situation. It involves showing remorse, seeking forgiveness, and making efforts to reconcile and set things right.

make a hole in To "make a hole in" is an idiom that means to deplete a significant amount of money or resources. It refers to spending or using up a substantial portion of one's financial reserves or available supplies.

make the arrangements The idiom "make the arrangements" refers to the act of organizing or planning certain details or logistics for an event, appointment, or trip. It involves taking care of necessary preparations, such as scheduling, coordinating, or sorting out the required elements to ensure that everything is in order and ready.

make application (to sm or sth) (for sth) The idiom "make application (to someone or something) (for something)" means to formally request or apply for something, typically by submitting a written or verbal request to a person or organization. It often involves expressing a desire to be considered or selected for a particular opportunity or benefit.

make someone feel small The idiom "make someone feel small" means to humiliate or belittle someone, making them feel inferior, inadequate, or insignificant. It involves actively diminishing someone's confidence, self-esteem, or sense of worth.

make (one's) gorge rise The idiom "make (one's) gorge rise" means to make someone feel extreme anger, disgust, or revulsion. It refers to something that is so distasteful or offensive that it elicits a strong negative reaction.

you've got to crack a few eggs to make an omelette The idiom "you've got to crack a few eggs to make an omelette" means that sometimes in order to achieve something or make progress, sacrifices or setbacks are necessary. It implies that achieving a desired outcome often requires some form of sacrifice, discomfort, or difficulty along the way. The phrase emphasizes the idea that one must be willing to endure these challenges or make difficult choices in order to attain a desired goal.

make (a) big play of (something) The idiom "make (a) big play of (something)" means to emphasize or give a lot of attention, effort, or importance to a specific thing or situation. It implies that someone is highlighting or drawing significant focus to a particular matter, often in a showy or exaggerated manner, in order to convey its significance or make a strong impression.

make it (one's) business to (do something) The idiom "make it (one's) business to (do something)" means to take it upon oneself to do something, to make something a priority or personal responsibility. It implies a strong commitment or determination to accomplish the mentioned task or objective.

make an exception The idiom "make an exception" means to deviate from a rule, policy, or usual behavior for a specific case or individual. It is when someone allows or permits something that they would typically prohibit or exclude.

make contact with (someone or something) The idiom "make contact with (someone or something)" means to establish communication or connect with a person or object. It refers to reaching out or initiating interaction with another individual or entity.

make a beeline for something The idiom "make a beeline for something" means to immediately go straight towards something or someone, often with great determination or enthusiasm. It implies a direct and focused approach, disregarding any obstacles or distractions along the way.

make a dog's dinner (of something) The idiom "make a dog's dinner (of something)" typically means to do something in a careless or disorganized manner, resulting in a chaotic outcome or mess. It implies a lack of skill, efficiency, or attention to detail in the way a task or situation is handled.

make odd/strange bedfellows The idiom "make odd/strange bedfellows" refers to the situation where two or more people or groups form an unlikely or unexpected alliance or partnership, usually due to a shared goal or interest despite their differences or conflicting beliefs. The term "bedfellows" originates from the notion of individuals, who would typically not choose to share a bed together, being forced to do so metaphorically to achieve a particular objective.

wanton kittens make sober cats The idiom "wanton kittens make sober cats" essentially means that individuals who exhibit playful or mischievous behavior in their youth or early stages of life often develop into serious and responsible adults as they mature. This phrase suggests that youthful exuberance and restless behavior gradually give way to a more measured and composed demeanor with age.

make a habit of sth The idiom "make a habit of sth" means to repeatedly do something regularly or frequently until it becomes a fixed or automatic behavior. It refers to developing a routine or pattern of behavior, often with a positive connotation.

make no odds The idiom "make no odds" means that something does not make any difference or have any affect on a particular situation. It implies that the outcome or result will remain the same regardless of the factor being considered.

make a case for The idiom "make a case for" means to present arguments or evidence in support of a particular opinion, stance, or action, typically in a persuasive manner. It often involves constructing a convincing argument that supports one's viewpoint or justifies a particular course of action.

make do (with something) The idiom "make do (with something)" means to manage or cope with the resources or circumstances that are available, typically in a situation where there is a lack of what is desired or needed. It implies making the best of a less ideal situation by using what is on hand or making substitutions.

make someone's blood run cold The idiom "make someone's blood run cold" refers to causing a sudden feeling of intense fear, horror, or dread in someone. It describes a situation or event that is so chilling or alarming that it sends shivers down the person's spine and evokes a sense of extreme unease or terror.

make trouble The idiom "make trouble" refers to intentionally causing problems, conflicts, or difficulties for oneself or others. It implies behaving in a disruptive or confrontational manner, often leading to negative consequences or disruptions in a situation or relationship.

make an example of sm The idiom "make an example of someone" means to punish or discipline someone severely in order to deter others from doing the same or to serve as a warning to others. It involves using someone as a demonstration or model for others to see the consequences of a particular behavior or action.

make advances to someone The idiom "make advances to someone" typically refers to the act of expressing romantic or sexual interest in someone and initiating flirtatious or amorous interactions with them. It often implies attempting to develop a closer relationship or pursuing someone romantically.

make mincemeat of sb The idiom "make mincemeat of someone" means to defeat or overpower someone easily and decisively, often in a physical or intellectual confrontation. It implies that the person or force overpowering the other is much stronger, faster, more skilled, or simply superior in every way. It conveys the idea of breaking someone down so thoroughly that they are left defenseless or helpless. The phrase is often used figuratively to describe a one-sided victory or domination in any competitive situation.

make (one's) toes curl The idiom "make (one's) toes curl" means to cause extreme discomfort, disgust, embarrassment, or cringing reaction. It refers to an experience or situation that is highly unsettling or disturbing to the point of physical reaction, which can make one curl their toes in discomfort or unease.

make a great show of The idiom "make a great show of" means to intentionally or exaggeratedly display or express something, often for the purpose of impressing or influencing others. It involves making a dramatic or conspicuous demonstration or presentation of a particular action, feeling, or quality.

Short reckonings make long friends The idiom "Short reckonings make long friends" means that promptly resolving financial debts or conflicts in a fair and straightforward manner can help maintain strong and lasting relationships. It emphasizes the importance of addressing any issues or obligations promptly rather than allowing unresolved matters to linger and potentially cause strain or resentment.

make look ridiculous The idiom "make look ridiculous" means to intentionally or unintentionally cause someone or something to appear absurd, laughable, or foolish. It implies making someone or something seem foolish or insignificant through words, actions, or circumstances.

make sb's blood boil The idiom "make sb's blood boil" means to cause someone to become extremely angry or furious.

make a fool (out) of (someone or oneself) The idiom "make a fool (out) of (someone or oneself)" means to cause someone or oneself to appear foolish, silly, or ridiculous through one's actions, words, or behavior. It implies embarrassing or humiliating oneself or others by behaving in an absurd or foolish manner.

make a â€” fist of The idiom "make a fist of" means to approach or attempt something with great determination, effort, and skill, usually referring to a task or activity. It implies giving one's best effort and trying to succeed despite challenges or difficulties.

make time for The idiom "make time for" means to allocate or find time in one's schedule for a particular activity, event, or person despite being busy or having other commitments. It emphasizes the importance of prioritizing and setting aside time for something or someone that is considered valuable or necessary.

make head or tail (out) of (someone or something) The idiom "make head or tail (out) of (someone or something)" means struggling to understand or comprehend someone or something. It implies that the situation or person is confusing or unclear, making it difficult to make any sense or meaning out of them.

make a nuisance of oneself The idiom "make a nuisance of oneself" means to behave in a way that annoys or disturbs others, often by being intrusive, bothersome, or causing inconvenience. It refers to an individual's actions that can lead to frustration, disruption, or dissatisfaction among others.

make a clean breast of it The idiom "make a clean breast of it" means to confess or disclose something completely and honestly, especially a secret or wrongdoing. It suggests being open, sincere, and not holding back any information or details about a matter.

make great play of The idiom "make great play of" means to excesively emphasize or highlight something, usually for display or attention-seeking purposes. It implies that someone is making a deliberate and often exaggerated effort to draw attention to a particular matter or to showcase their involvement in it.

make bricks without straw The idiom "make bricks without straw" refers to attempting to complete a task or achieve a goal without having the necessary resources, specifically, trying to accomplish something impossible or without the proper tools, materials, or support. It stems from the biblical story in Exodus where the Israelites were forced to produce the same quantity of bricks as before, but without being provided with the necessary straw for the production process. Therefore, the idiom signifies attempting to do something difficult or impossible due to lacking the required resources or support.

make eyes The idiom "make eyes" means to gaze at someone with a specific expression, usually to show attraction or interest. It typically involves using eye contact, facial expressions, or body language to communicate romantic or flirtatious feelings towards someone.

make the most of (oneself) The idiom "make the most of oneself" means to try to achieve the highest level of success or performance by utilizing one's abilities, talents, or resources to their fullest potential. It implies maximizing personal growth, development, and opportunities in order to make oneself the best version possible.

make someone's acquaintance The idiom "make someone's acquaintance" refers to the act of meeting someone for the first time or getting to know them. It often implies establishing a social connection or becoming familiar with someone.

make a stab at The idiom "make a stab at" means to attempt or try to do something, often without certainty of success. It implies making a sincere effort or giving something a try, even if the outcome is uncertain.

make an honest woman of someone The idiom "make an honest woman of someone" refers to the act of marrying a woman, particularly in a situation where she may have been living with her partner out of wedlock or engaged in a long-term relationship without official commitment. It implies that by getting married, the person is being made respectable or legitimate in the eyes of society.

make the ultimate/supreme sacrifice The idiom "make the ultimate/supreme sacrifice" refers to giving up something of utmost value, often one's own life, for a greater cause or purpose. It signifies selfless actions or decisions that involve significant personal loss or risk, putting the well-being or interests of others above one's own.

make no bones about something To make no bones about something means to be direct, straightforward, or honest about a particular matter or opinion.

make light work of something The idiom "make light work of something" means to quickly and easily complete a task or effort, often by accomplishing it with ease, efficiency, or without much effort or difficulty.

make a day/night/weekend etc. of it The idiom "make a day/night/weekend etc. of it" means to thoroughly enjoy or make the most of a specific period of time. It suggests finding joy and fulfillment in the limited time available and cherishing every moment. It conveys the idea of seizing the opportunity to have a positive and memorable experience during that specific time frame.

make light work of someone The idiom "make light work of someone" means to easily defeat or overcome someone, often suggesting that the victory was achieved with minimal effort or opposition.

make an end of The idiom "make an end of" typically means to put an end to something or to bring it to a conclusion or resolution. It signifies the act of finishing or completing a task or objective.

make light work of The idiom "make light work of" means to complete a task easily and quickly, typically by applying efficient skills or effort. It implies that the task seemed effortless or was completed without encountering any significant difficulties or obstacles.

empty vessels make most noise The idiom "empty vessels make most noise" means that people who lack knowledge or substance are often the loudest or most talkative. It suggests that those who have little to say or offer are often the ones who talk the most or make the most noise.

make somebodyâ€™s blood boil The idiom "make somebody's blood boil" means to cause someone to become very angry, irritated, or enraged. This expression implies that the person is so provoked that it results in a rise in their blood pressure or boiling of their blood metaphorically, indicating intense anger.

make one's excuses The idiom "make one's excuses" means to provide an explanation or justification for not attending an event, meeting, or obligation. It implies politely declining an invitation or request and offering a reasonable excuse for not being able to fulfill the commitment.

make way back The idiom "make way back" means to return or retrace one's steps, typically referring to physically going back to a previous location or figuratively revisiting a previous situation or mindset. It signifies the act of going back to where one started or going back in time to a previous state or position.

make an appointment The idiom "make an appointment" means to arrange or schedule a specific time and date to meet or see someone, usually a professional or a person of importance.

make hard work of (something) The idiom "make hard work of (something)" means to make a task or situation unnecessarily difficult or laborious. It describes someone who struggles or puts in excessive effort to accomplish something, often resulting in inefficiency or complications.

make little of something The idiom "make little of something" means to downplay or underestimate the importance, significance, or seriousness of something. It refers to not giving proper attention or value to something that deserves more consideration or recognition.

make a difference in sm or sth The idiom "make a difference in someone or something" means to have a significant impact or effect on someone or something, often resulting in a positive change or improvement. It implies that one's actions or efforts can bring about noticeable differences and contribute to a meaningful outcome.

make no mistake (about something) The idiom "make no mistake (about something)" is used to state or emphasize that something is absolutely true or certain, leaving no room for misunderstanding or doubt.

make the right noises The idiom "make the right noises" means to say or do things that are expected or appropriate in a given situation, even if one's true intentions or beliefs may differ. It implies making the necessary sounds or expressing the preferred responses to create the appearance of cooperation, agreement, or support. This phrase often implies that the actions or words may not be genuine but are intended to satisfy others temporarily.

make a song and dance about (something) The idiom "make a song and dance about (something)" means to exaggerate or make a fuss about a particular issue or situation, often displaying excessive excitement or drama. It denotes someone's tendency to overemphasize the importance or significance of something, often for attention or to create an impression.

make eyes at somebody The idiom "make eyes at somebody" means to look at someone in a way that indicates romantic or flirtatious interest. It involves using various expressions or gestures to subtly or overtly show attraction or affection towards the other person.

make a night of it The idiom "make a night of it" means to extend or prolong an evening or event, typically by enjoying it for a longer period than initially planned. It suggests fully indulging or immersing oneself in the experience, often by going to multiple locations, engaging in various activities, or staying out late.

make (all) the right, correct, etc. noises The idiom "make (all) the right, correct, etc. noises" refers to behaving or expressing something in a way that seems appropriate or acceptable, usually in order to give an impression of compliance, agreement, or support, even if one's true intentions or feelings may differ. It implies that someone is saying or doing what is expected or required, often without genuine conviction or passion.

make for smw The idiom "make for smw" means to move or travel towards a particular place or destination.

make a production (out) of sth The idiom "make a production (out) of something" typically means to exaggerate or make a big fuss about a particular situation or event. It refers to overly dramatizing or drawing excessive attention to something that may not deserve such extensive focus or significance.

make a pig's ear of sth/doing sth The idiom "make a pig's ear of something/doing something" means to do or handle something very poorly or in a clumsy manner, resulting in a mess or failure. It suggests a lack of skill, competence, or finesse in carrying out a task.

make a big thing (out) of (something) To "make a big thing (out) of (something)" means to make an excessive or exaggerated fuss or display about a particular situation, event, or issue. It implies that someone is amplifying the importance or significance of something beyond what is necessary or reasonable. This idiom can be used to describe individuals who make a small matter seem much more substantial than it actually is.

be make or break for sb/sth The idiom "be make or break for someone/something" means that a particular situation, opportunity, or decision has the potential to determine whether someone or something will be successful or fail completely. It suggests that the outcome of this situation is critical and will significantly impact the future.

You cannot make an omelet without breaking eggs. The idiom "You cannot make an omelet without breaking eggs" means that in order to achieve something positive or desirable, it is often necessary to endure or accept some negative or unavoidable consequences. It emphasizes that some sacrifices or difficulties are unavoidable when trying to achieve a desired outcome.

make (one) turn over in (one's) grave The idiom "make (someone) turn over in (their) grave" is used to describe an action, event, or statement that would greatly upset or shock someone who is deceased, had they been alive to witness it. It implies that the action is contrary to the deceased person's deeply held beliefs, principles, or wishes.

make somebody sick The idiom "make somebody sick" means to highly irritate or disgust someone, typically due to their behavior, actions, or attitude. It suggests that the person's behavior is so unpleasant or unpleasant that it causes a feeling of nausea or sickness in others.

make (oneself) useful The idiom "make (oneself) useful" refers to the act of being helpful, productive, or actively involved in a situation or task, often with the objective of contributing or offering assistance. It implies taking initiative and finding ways to be beneficial or valuable in a particular situation.

make (someone's) life a misery The idiom "make (someone's) life a misery" means to cause persistent and severe difficulties, hardships, or suffering for someone, usually through continuous harassment, torment, or troublesome behavior. It implies making someone's existence unbearable or filled with constant adversity and discomfort.

make a move To "make a move" is an idiomatic expression that refers to taking an action, typically in a strategic or calculated manner, to initiate or progress a particular situation or plan. It often implies the need for timely and decisive action, particularly in contexts related to competition, relationships, or decision-making.

make matters worse The idiom "make matters worse" means to worsen or exacerbate an already difficult or problematic situation. It refers to actions or decisions that have the unintended consequence of further complicating or aggravating a problem instead of resolving it.

make sm the scapegoat for sth The idiom "make someone the scapegoat for something" refers to the act of blaming or holding a particular person responsible for a problem, mistake, or wrongdoing, often in a way that is unfair or unjust. This person is unfairly singled out and made to take the blame or consequences for a situation, even if they may not be solely or even primarily responsible for it.

able to make (something) The idiom "able to make (something)" typically means possessing the skills, capabilities, or resources required to create, produce, or achieve a specific thing or result. It implies having the necessary competence, aptitude, or expertise to accomplish a particular task or goal.

make a case that The idiom "make a case that" means to present a convincing argument or provide evidence in order to support a particular viewpoint or persuade someone of a certain claim or belief. It implies constructing a logical and compelling argument to prove or establish a point.

make an impression The idiom "make an impression" means to create a lasting impact or influence on someone or something. It refers to leaving a strong, memorable, or significant effect on others through one's actions, words, or appearance.

make a bolt for The idiom "make a bolt for" means to make a sudden and rapid movement or attempt to escape or reach a destination. It refers to acting swiftly and decisively, often in a desperate or urgent situation.

not able to make anything out The idiom "not able to make anything out" refers to the inability to understand, perceive, or decipher something clearly or accurately. It implies confusion or lack of comprehension regarding a situation, information, or visual elements.

make a dash for someone or something The idiom "make a dash for someone or something" means to move quickly towards someone or something with great determination or urgency. It implies a sudden burst of speed or effort in order to reach a desired person or object.

make little of (someone or something) The idiom "make little of (someone or something)" means to belittle or disregard someone or something, often underestimating their value, importance, or capabilities. It implies diminishing or downplaying the significance or worthiness of someone or something.

What difference does it make? The idiom "What difference does it make?" is a rhetorical question used to express indifference or lack of concern about a particular matter or situation. It suggests that the outcome or the result of a given situation is irrelevant or inconsequential.

make an honest living The idiom "make an honest living" refers to earning a livelihood or income through legal and moral means, without engaging in deceit, fraud, or illegal activities. It implies working diligently and ethically to support oneself or one's family.

make (sb's) hackles rise The idiom "make (sb's) hackles rise" means to cause someone to become extremely angry, annoyed, or defensive. It refers to a person's hair standing on end, particularly at the back of the neck, which can happen when someone feels threatened, irritated, or provoked. This idiom is often used to describe a situation or action that triggers a strong emotional reaction in someone, leading to a heightened state of agitation or anger.

make a clean breast The idiom "make a clean breast" means to confess or reveal something, typically a secret or a wrongdoing, in a truthful and honest manner. It implies openly admitting to a mistake or discussing a hidden truth without holding anything back.

make somebody's day The idiom "make somebody's day" means to do something kind or thoughtful that significantly brightens or improves another person's day or mood. It involves bringing joy, happiness, or a positive impact to someone's life.

make common cause with The idiom "make common cause with" means to form an alliance or join forces with someone or a group of people. It typically implies cooperating and working together towards a shared goal or interest.

make someone's blood boil The idiom "make someone's blood boil" means to cause someone to become extremely angry, enraged, or infuriated.

to barely make it The idiom "to barely make it" means to just manage to accomplish something successfully, but with great difficulty or exceptionally marginal results. It implies that the outcome or achievement was only achievable by a narrow margin.

make a rod for your own back The idiom "make a rod for your own back" is used to convey the idea that someone is creating unnecessary difficulties or problems for themselves in the future by their own actions or choices in the present. It suggests that the person is setting themselves up for negative consequences or hardships in the long run.

make (one's) hair curl The idiom "make (one's) hair curl" refers to something that is extremely shocking, disturbing, or horrifying, causing great fear or unease. It implies that the situation or information is so alarming that it could make one's hair literally stand on end or cause a feeling of intense fright or discomfort.

make fun of sb/sth The idiom "make fun of sb/sth" means to mock or ridicule someone or something in a humorous or derisive manner. It involves teasing, laughing at, or joking about someone or something, typically for entertainment or to belittle them.

not able to make head or tail of sth The idiom "not able to make head or tail of something" means to be unable to understand or comprehend something, usually due to it being confusing, unorganized, or incoherent. It suggests a lack of clarity or comprehension.

make an honest woman (out) of sb The idiom "make an honest woman (out) of sb" means to marry a woman, particularly when the couple has been living together or engaged for a long time. It implies that by marrying, the woman's moral or social status will be respected.

make head or tail of The idiom "make head or tail of" means to understand or make sense of something, especially when it is confusing or unclear. It implies trying to decipher or comprehend a complex or incomprehensible situation, information, or problem.

make an exhibition of The idiom "make an exhibition of" means to behave in a way that attracts attention, usually in a foolish or embarrassing manner. It refers to acting in an ostentatious or showy way, often drawing negative attention or criticism from others.

make sm's blood boil The idiom "make someone's blood boil" means to cause someone to become extremely angry, irritated, or enraged.

make a pile The idiom "make a pile" typically means to accumulate or acquire a large amount of money or wealth. It can also refer to achieving significant success or obtaining a considerable amount of something valuable or desirable.

make inroads in/into something The idiom "make inroads in/into something" means to make progress or gain success in a particular field, industry, or area, often by overcoming obstacles, challenges, or competition. It implies making significant advancements or establishing a presence where there was previously little or none.

make a beeline for (someone or something) The idiom "make a beeline for (someone or something)" means to move quickly and directly towards a person or a thing, usually with a determined or eager attitude. It implies a focused, straight path towards a specific target, bypassing any distractions or detours.

make a practice of sth The idiom "make a practice of sth" means to regularly or habitually engage in a particular activity or behavior. It suggests that the activity or behavior has become a customary or ingrained practice.

make sm's blood run cold The idiom "make someone's blood run cold" means to cause extreme fear, horror, or a feeling of dread in someone.

make a song and dance about sth/doing sth To "make a song and dance about something/doing something" means to exaggerate or make a big fuss about a particular situation, task, or event. It implies that someone is giving excessive or unnecessary attention to a matter, often in an overly dramatic or theatrical way. This idiom is often used to suggest that someone is making something seem more important or complicated than it actually is.

make up ground The idiom "make up ground" means to catch up with or regain a position that was lost or behind. It refers to making progress to reach the same level or position as others, especially after being at a disadvantage or being left behind initially.

make your presence felt The idiom "make your presence felt" means to assert oneself assertively and effectively in a situation or environment so that others are aware of one's influence, impact, or importance. It suggests making a noticeable or significant impact to ensure one's influence or significance is acknowledged.

make an issue of The idiom "make an issue of" means to excessively focus on or give excessive importance or attention to something. It involves amplifying or exaggerating a topic or problem, often causing unnecessary conflict, argument, or disagreement.

make use of The idiom "make use of" means to employ, take advantage of, or utilize something for a specific purpose or benefit. It refers to the act of using or making effective use of available resources or opportunities.

make yourself useful The idiom "make yourself useful" means to do something that is helpful or productive, often in a situation where one's presence or contribution is expected or needed. It implies that the person should find a way to be helpful or contribute positively to a situation.

make or break sth The idiom "make or break something" means that something will either lead to great success or cause failure. It implies that the outcome or result of a particular action or decision will determine the ultimate success or failure of a situation, project, or endeavor.

make hay The idiom "make hay" means to take advantage of a situation or opportunity while it is available or to make the most of a favorable circumstance. It implies the importance of acting promptly and efficiently in order to maximize the benefits or outcomes. The origin of the phrase comes from the practice of making hay by cutting and drying grass during suitable weather conditions to preserve it as animal fodder before winter.

make sheep's eyes at sb The idiom "make sheep's eyes at sb" refers to a person who is giving someone flirtatious or longing looks, usually in a subtle or coy manner. It is used to describe someone who shows romantic or amorous interest through their eye contact or gaze.

make light of The idiom "make light of" means to downplay or trivialize something, often by treating it as unimportant or insignificant. It refers to diminishing the seriousness or significance of a matter through humor, sarcasm, or casual remarks.

make your flesh crawl/creep The idiom "make your flesh crawl/creep" refers to a situation, person, or experience that is extremely unsettling, eerie, or creepy. It conjures up a feeling of extreme discomfort, often creating a physical reaction such as goosebumps or shivers.

make position clear The idiom "make position clear" means to clearly and unambiguously express one's opinions, beliefs, or stance on a particular issue or topic. It involves ensuring that others understand and are aware of one's position or viewpoint.

make sb's skin crawl The idiom "make someone's skin crawl" means to cause an individual to feel extreme discomfort, disgust, or unease. It is often used to describe a situation or an individual that evokes a strong negative reaction.

make reference to The idiom "make reference to" means to mention or allude to something or someone in speech or writing. It refers to the act of briefly acknowledging or making a statement about a particular topic or individual.

make up to The idiom "make up to" means to try to regain someone's trust, approval, or affection, usually after having done something wrong or caused harm to the person. It refers to making amends or compensating for one's actions in order to restore a positive relationship with the other person.

be on the make The idiom "be on the make" typically refers to someone who is actively seeking personal gain or advantage, often in romantic or financial matters. It implies that the person is actively pursuing opportunities or relationships with the intent of benefiting themselves in some way. It often carries a negative connotation, suggesting that the person is opportunistic or manipulative.

make the grade The idiom "make the grade" means to meet a standard or satisfy a requirement, especially regarding academic or professional performance. It refers to successfully fulfilling expectations or achieving a level of proficiency necessary for success or acceptance.

make sth up as you go along The idiom "make something up as you go along" means to improvise or to figure things out spontaneously without having a predetermined plan or idea. It refers to the act of addressing situations or making decisions as they arise, without prior preparation or adherence to a specific set of instructions or rules.

make good money The idiom "make good money" means to earn a substantial or satisfactory amount of money or income. It suggests that one's financial situation is prosperous or lucrative, implying a level of success and financial stability.

make sm's gorge rise The idiom "make someone's gorge rise" refers to something that is deeply offensive or repulsive to someone, causing them to feel intense disgust or anger. It implies that the person's feelings are so strong that they are physically affected, as if their throat is constricted or their stomach is turning.

make a rod for (one's) own back The idiom "make a rod for one's own back" means to create difficulties, problems, or trouble for oneself through one's own actions, decisions, or behaviors. It suggests that someone is unintentionally setting themselves up for future problems or consequences by their current choices or actions.

make a silk purse of a sow's ear The idiom "make a silk purse of a sow's ear" means to attempt to turn something of poor quality or unappealing into something attractive or valuable. It implies the act of transforming or improving an object, idea, or situation beyond its original state or natural capabilities.

make a killing The idiom "make a killing" refers to the act of making a large amount of money, often quickly or unexpectedly, usually through advantageous or successful business deals, investments, or other financial endeavors. It implies a significant profit or financial gain.

make your blood boil The idiom "make your blood boil" refers to a situation or event that causes intense anger, frustration, or outrage. It signifies the feeling of one's blood heating up to an extreme level due to strong emotions.

make the acquaintance of somebody The idiom "make the acquaintance of somebody" means to meet someone for the first time and become familiar with them, usually in a polite or formal manner.

make eyes at sm The idiom "make eyes at someone" refers to the act of giving someone flirtatious or suggestive looks to express romantic or sexual interest.

make sb's day The idiom "make sb's day" means to cheer or delight someone by doing or saying something that brings them great joy or happiness. It signifies the act of turning someone's ordinary or average day into an exceptionally good or memorable one.

make a hole in the water The idiom "make a hole in the water" is an expression used to describe an action or effort that results in no tangible or meaningful impact or achievement. It conveys the idea of exerting effort without any visible result, similar to trying to make a hole in water, which is impossible.

make a difference in someone or something The idiom "make a difference in someone or something" means to have a significant impact, influence, or positive effect on someone or something, often resulting in noticeable improvements, changes, or advancements. It implies that one's actions or contributions are meaningful and capable of bringing about meaningful outcomes or transformations.

make it snappy The idiom "make it snappy" means to do something quickly or promptly. It is often used as a way to urge someone to hurry up or speed up their actions.

make a face The idiom "make a face" means to distort one's facial expression, usually in response to something unpleasant, annoying, or distasteful. It involves using facial expressions, such as twisting one's mouth, frowning, or scrunching up one's nose, to convey disapproval, disgust, or dissatisfaction.

make a clean breast of sth (to sm) To make a clean breast of something means to confess or reveal something that one has been keeping secret or hiding, especially when it comes to admitting to a wrongdoing or a mistake. It involves openly admitting one's guilt or the truth about a situation, often to someone else.

make the best of The idiom "make the best of" means to accept and make the most out of a difficult or less than ideal situation. It refers to finding the positive aspects or making an effort to improve the circumstances, despite the challenges or limitations.

make yourself at home The idiom "make yourself at home" means to make oneself comfortable and behave as if one is in their own home, without any hesitation or reservation. It is an invitation for someone to feel relaxed, settle in, and use the space or facilities as if it were their own.

make a joke of sth To "make a joke of something" means to treat or portray something as humorous or trivial, often in a disrespectful or insensitive way. It implies ridiculing or belittling a serious matter or disregarding its importance.

make it up to sb The idiom "make it up to sb" means to compensate or atone for a mistake or wrongdoing towards someone by doing something special or making amends in order to restore their trust, happiness, or wellbeing.

make good, etc. time The idiom "make good time" means to travel or progress at a fast pace or rate, often exceeding one's expected or usual speed. It implies completing a journey or task more quickly than anticipated or compared to previous experiences.

make sb look small The idiom "make someone look small" means to belittle or undermine someone's reputation, abilities, or achievements. It implies making someone appear insignificant or less important in comparison to others.

make out a case The idiom "make out a case" means to present or construct a persuasive argument or justification for something. It refers to the act of providing evidence, reasoning, or explanations to support a particular point of view or to prove a claim. It involves putting forward a strong case or making a compelling argument to convince others of a specific position or interpretation.

make an exhibition of yourself The idiom "make an exhibition of yourself" means to behave in a way that attracts attention and embarrasses oneself. It refers to acting in a manner that is inappropriate, attention-seeking, or foolish, often leading to feelings of humiliation or shame.

make money on The idiom "make money on" typically refers to the act of earning or profiting from a particular activity, investment, or venture. It suggests the ability to generate financial gain or profit through a certain approach, strategy, or opportunity.

do/make a good/bad job of sth The idiom "do/make a good/bad job of something" means to complete a task or perform a duty with either proficiency and success (doing a good job) or with incompetence and failure (doing a bad job). It implies that the quality of the outcome or the manner in which the task is performed can vary greatly.

make a better door than a window The idiom "make a better door than a window" is used to politely or subtly imply that someone is blocking the view or obstructing the way. It signifies that the person is not helpful in providing a clear perspective or allowing easy access to information or an opportunity, much like a door that blocks the view compared to a window.

make an entrance The idiom "make an entrance" means to attract attention and command a presence when entering a place or situation. It typically refers to making a dramatic or impressive entrance that catches people's attention.

make a play for sb The idiom "make a play for someone" means to express romantic or sexual interest in someone and to make attempts to pursue or woo them.

make heavy weather of The idiom "make heavy weather of" means to find a task or situation excessively difficult, complicated, or time-consuming even though it may be relatively simple or straightforward. It implies that someone is overthinking, overanalyzing, or making more effort than necessary, leading to unnecessary complications or delays.

make short shrift of sth The idiom "make short shrift of something" means to deal with or dispose of something quickly and efficiently, often without giving it much consideration or attention. It suggests that the task or matter at hand is dispatched or resolved in a swift and decisive manner.

make one's head spin The idiom "make one's head spin" means to confuse or overwhelm someone, often causing dizziness or bewilderment. It refers to a situation or information that is so complex, fast-paced, or surprising that it becomes difficult to grasp or comprehend.

make a meal on The definition of the idiom "make a meal on" is to thoroughly enjoy or derive great satisfaction from something, often implying that one is able to extract a significant amount of value or substance from a particular situation or experience.

can't make head nor tail of (someone or something) The idiom "can't make head nor tail of (someone or something)" means not being able to understand or comprehend someone or something, often due to confusion or lack of clarity. It implies that the situation or person is completely incomprehensible or confusing.

make someone's toes curl The idiom "make someone's toes curl" means to make someone feel extremely uncomfortable, embarrassed, shocked, or disgusted. It is often used to describe situations or conversations that are cringe-worthy or highly provocative in nature.

make a clean breast of something (to someone) To make a clean breast of something (to someone) means to openly confess or reveal something, especially a wrongdoing or guilty secret, to someone else. It involves admitting the truth and clearing one's conscience by openly sharing information that may have been concealed or kept hidden.

make do The idiom "make do" means to manage with what is available or to find a temporary solution when faced with limitations or constraints. It is about making the best out of a situation without having everything needed or desired.

make a check to The idiom "make a check to" typically refers to the action of writing a check (a financial document) payable to a particular person or entity, indicating that they are the intended recipient of the funds stated on the check. It is commonly used in accounting or financial contexts to describe the process of making a payment by check.

make common cause with sb The idiom "make common cause with sb" means to join or collaborate with someone in pursuit of a common goal or purpose. It implies forming a partnership or alliance with someone to work towards a shared objective or to support each other in a particular endeavor.

make ground against (something) The idiom "make ground against (something)" means to gradually advance, progress, or gain advantage in a situation or competition, especially when facing opposition or obstacles. It refers to making gradual or incremental progress towards a goal or improving one's position relative to others.

make a beeline for The idiom "make a beeline for" means to quickly and directly head towards something or someone without any hesitation or detours. It implies moving in a straight line towards a specific target or destination.

make life a misery (for someone) The idiom "make life a misery (for someone)" means to intentionally cause tremendous hardship, suffering, or distress to someone. It implies that the person is making someone else's life extremely unpleasant and difficult, often through continuous or repetitive actions.

make (one's) skin crawl The idiom "make one's skin crawl" means to evoke a strong feeling of fear, disgust, or discomfort. It refers to a situation, action, or presence that is so unsettling or creepy that it causes a physical reaction, often causing the hairs on the body to stand up.

can't make heads or tails (out) of (someone or something) The idiom "can't make heads or tails (out) of (someone or something)" refers to a situation where someone is unable to understand or decipher someone's behavior, intentions, or a particular situation. It suggests confusion or difficulty in comprehending or making sense of someone or something. It often implies a sense of frustration or bewilderment.

make a pig of yourself The idiom "make a pig of yourself" means to overindulge or consume food excessively, often to the point of gluttony or greed. It implies a lack of self-control or manners when eating.

make a fool of yourself The idiom "make a fool of yourself" means to behave or act in a way that is embarrassing, ridiculous, or foolish, often causing others to lose respect or have a negative perception of you. It refers to engaging in actions or behaviors that reflect poorly on oneself.

make/put a dent in sth To "make/put a dent in something" means to make progress or achieve a significant impact on a task, goal, problem, or situation. It implies making a noticeable and often positive change or effect, although it can also be used in a negative context. The idiom originated from the dent, which refers to a small indentation or mark left on a surface due to impact.

make a meal of sth The idiom "make a meal of sth" means to unnecessarily complicate or exaggerate a task or situation, often by giving extra attention or importance to something that doesn't deserve it. It implies taking more effort or time than necessary to accomplish something simple or straightforward.

make an impression on sm The idiom "make an impression on someone" means to create a lasting or memorable effect on someone's thoughts, feelings, or opinions. It refers to the ability to leave a strong and lasting positive or negative impact on someone's mind or memory.

make way for sth, at give way to sth The idiom "make way for something" or "give way to something" means to clear a path or create space for the mentioned thing to pass through or be placed. It can be used metaphorically to indicate yielding or stepping aside for something or someone more important or significant.

make an honest woman of sm The idiom "make an honest woman of someone" refers to a situation where a man marries a woman he is in a committed relationship with, particularly if they have been living together or have had children together before getting married. It implies that by getting married, the man is granting the woman social acceptability and legitimacy, thus "making her an honest woman" in the eyes of society.

make a (big) thing of/about something The idiom "make a (big) thing of/about something" means to exaggerate or overly emphasize the importance, significance, or seriousness of an issue, event, or situation. It implies turning something relatively small into a major concern or treating it more dramatically than necessary.

one swallow doesn't make a summer The idiom "one swallow doesn't make a summer" means that a single positive event or occurrence does not necessarily indicate the overall trend or a permanent change. It suggests that one isolated incident should not be considered representative of a larger situation or considered as a definitive conclusion.

make the most of yourself, himself, etc. The idiom "make the most of yourself, himself, etc." means to fully utilize and develop one's abilities, talents, and potential in order to achieve success or reach one's highest possible level of accomplishment. It implies making the best use of the resources, skills, and opportunities available to enhance personal growth and accomplishment.

make a break for it The idiom "make a break for it" refers to the act of making a sudden and often impulsive attempt to escape or get away from a place or situation, usually with the intention of avoiding capture, danger, or confinement.

make it hot for sm The idiom "make it hot for someone" means to make someone's life difficult or uncomfortable, usually through persistent and aggressive actions or behaviors. It implies causing trouble or creating a distressing situation for the targeted person.

make as if to do sth The idiom "make as if to do something" means to pretend or pretend to prepare to do something, without actually taking any action. It refers to acting or behaving in a way that simulates or imitates a certain action or intention.

make noises about sth The idiom "make noises about something" means to express vague or formal intentions or plans regarding something without actually taking concrete action. It refers to speaking or making public statements about a particular topic or issue, often in a way that implies concern or interest, while not committing to any definitive actions or decisions. This idiom is commonly used to describe instances where people or organizations create the appearance of taking steps but do not make substantial progress or show genuine commitment.

make sth (all) your own The idiom "make something (all) your own" means to personalize or customize something according to one's preferences or style. It refers to the act of taking ownership and transforming something to reflect an individual's identity or tastes.

make no difference The idiom "make no difference" means that something does not have any effect, impact, or significance on a particular situation or outcome. It implies that a particular factor or action does not alter or change the overall result or outcome.

go ahead, make my day The idiom "go ahead, make my day" is a phrase popularized by the movie Dirty Harry (1983) and is typically used to convey a warning or challenge someone to take a particular action that will result in unfavorable consequences for the person issuing the challenge. It implies a sense of confidence, defiance, and a readiness to respond aggressively or decisively if provoked.

make the running The idiom "make the running" means to take the lead or to be ahead in a competition, race, or any similar endeavor. It implies being in control of a situation and setting the pace or direction for others to follow.

make fish of one and flesh of another The idiom "make fish of one and flesh of another" typically refers to showing favoritism or treating people unequally, often in an unfair or biased manner. It suggests that one person is given preferential treatment, while another person is disregarded or treated poorly.

make away with The idiom "make away with" means to steal, take illicitly, or abscond with something, often in a sneaky or secretive manner. It is generally used to describe the act of unlawfully acquiring or removing items or possessions.

make for The idiom "make for" means to move towards or proceed in a specific direction, often with the intention of reaching a particular destination or goal. It can also refer to creating or causing a particular outcome or result.

make ends meet The idiom "make ends meet" means to have enough money to cover one's basic expenses and live within one's means, especially when facing financial difficulties.

make a comeback The idiom "make a comeback" refers to the act of returning to success or popularity after a period of decline, failure, or obscurity. It implies a significant and noticeable resurgence in one's personal or professional life.

make a stink about someone/something The idiom "make a stink about someone/something" means to strongly and vocally complain or protest about someone or something, often making a big fuss or causing a disturbance to draw attention to the issue. It implies expressing discontent or dissatisfaction in a forceful manner to bring about change or resolution.

make (someone's) ears burn The idiom "make (someone's) ears burn" means to cause someone to feel uncomfortable, embarrassed, or ashamed by talking about them or discussing their actions or behavior in their absence.

Conscience does make cowards of us all. The idiom "Conscience does make cowards of us all" means that our moral sense or internal voice of right and wrong can sometimes prevent us from taking certain actions or facing difficult situations due to fear, guilt, or remorse. It suggests that our conscience can inhibit our ability to act courageously or boldly.

make a life for oneself The idiom "make a life for oneself" means to build and establish an independent and fulfilling life or livelihood, often achieved through personal efforts, hard work, and determination. It implies taking steps to achieve personal goals, success, and satisfaction in various aspects of life, such as career, relationships, and personal development.

make sth up out of whole cloth The idiom "make something up out of whole cloth" means to create or invent something completely false or fictitious, without any basis in truth or reality. It implies fabricating a story, information, or details from scratch, often with the intention of deceiving or misleading others.

make sb's blood curdle The idiom "make someone's blood curdle" refers to something that is extremely shocking, horrifying, or disturbing, causing intense fear or revulsion. It implies that the person's blood (symbolic of emotions) is chilled or frozen due to the extreme fright or terror experienced.

make bed The idiom "make bed" refers to the act of preparing or arranging a bed, usually by straightening the sheets, pillows, and covers, to create an organized and neat appearance. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of taking responsibility for or resolving a situation or task.

make a virtue (out) of sth The idiom "make a virtue (out) of something" refers to the act of presenting or portraying something as positive, admirable, or praiseworthy, even though it may initially seem negative or undesirable. It involves highlighting the supposed virtues or advantages of a particular aspect or situation to try to turn it into an asset or source of pride.

make a bundle The idiom "make a bundle" means to earn or acquire a large amount of money or wealth, often in a short period of time. It is often used to describe someone who achieves great financial success or profit.

make eyes at someone The idiom "make eyes at someone" means to show romantic or flirtatious interest in someone through eye contact, gestures, or facial expressions, usually with the intention of getting their attention or expressing attraction.

make your blood freeze The idiom "make your blood freeze" means to cause extreme fear, terror, or horror. It refers to something so shocking or alarming that it gives a person a chilling, spine-tingling sensation as if their blood has turned to ice.

make oneself conspicuous The idiom "make oneself conspicuous" means to deliberately draw attention to oneself or to intentionally stand out in a conspicuous or noticeable way. It implies that someone is intentionally doing something to attract attention or be easily recognized.

make capital (out) of something The idiom "make capital (out) of something" means to take advantage of or exploit a situation for personal gain or benefit. It refers to using a particular circumstance or resource to derive advantage, often in a clever or strategic manner. It can also imply emphasizing or exaggerating a situation in order to gain attention or recognition.

make the sparks fly The idiom "make the sparks fly" means to cause a lively and animated argument or conflict, usually by saying or doing something provocative or controversial. It is often used to describe a situation where tensions escalate and strong emotions or heated arguments arise.

make a monkey (out) of The idiom "make a monkey (out) of" means to embarrass, humiliate, or make a fool of someone. It refers to a situation where someone's actions, words, or behavior cause someone else to look foolish or ridiculous in front of others.

make a hit The idiom "make a hit" means to achieve great success or popularity, especially in a performance, presentation, or endeavor. It typically refers to receiving widespread positive attention, appreciation, or acclaim for one's work or actions.

make fun of someone or something The idiom "make fun of someone or something" means to mock, ridicule, or tease someone or something in a light-hearted or sarcastic manner. It typically involves jokes, comments, or actions that aim to uncover perceived flaws, weaknesses, or humorous aspects of the person or thing being targeted.

make it hot for (someone) The idiom "make it hot for (someone)" means to create a difficult or uncomfortable situation for someone, often by causing trouble, making them face consequences, or engaging in malicious actions towards them. It implies putting pressure on a person, causing them distress, or making their life difficult.

make something good The idiom "make something good" refers to improving or enhancing the quality or condition of something. It implies taking action to turn a situation, object, or idea into a more positive or favorable state.

make a break for The idiom "make a break for" refers to the act of suddenly and perhaps urgently attempting to escape or flee from a certain situation, place, or circumstance. It implies the idea of taking a risk or showing determination in order to break free and attain freedom or relief.

make a living from The idiom "make a living from" means to earn money or support oneself through a particular job, profession, or means of income. It refers to the act of successfully sustaining one's livelihood by making money in a certain way.

make or break The idiom "make or break" refers to a critical moment or situation that has the potential to either result in a significant success or failure. It represents a pivotal point where the outcome will ultimately determine the final result or fate.

make it (until sth) The idiom "make it (until sth)" means to endure or survive a specific situation or time period despite challenges or difficulties. It suggests successfully navigating through a challenging or tough circumstance until a desired outcome or time arrives.

make a day/night/week of it To "make a day/night/week of it" means to fully devote a particular period of time, often a day, night, or week, to enjoying oneself or engaging in a specific activity to the fullest extent possible. It implies making the most out of the time available and going above and beyond the usual routine or expectations. This idiom suggests seizing the opportunity to have a memorable and enjoyable experience.

make a statement The idiom "make a statement" means expressing an opinion or viewpoint in a bold or noticeable way that is intended to convey a particular message or provoke a reaction. It often involves making a strong impression or asserting oneself in a purposeful manner to communicate a specific idea or belief.

make no bones about (doing) something The idiom "make no bones about (doing) something" means to be open, straightforward, and not to hesitate or show any reluctance about doing or saying something. It expresses a direct and decisive attitude towards a particular action or decision without any ambiguity or hesitation.

make a hole in sth The idiom "make a hole in sth" means to spend or use up a significant amount of money or resources, thereby reducing the overall quantity or availability. It implies that the action or expense creates a noticeable void or loss in something.

make a mountain out of a molehill The idiom "make a mountain out of a molehill" means to exaggerate or make something seem much more important, difficult, or significant than it actually is. It refers to overreacting or blowing a small or trivial issue out of proportion.

make a dead set at To "make a dead set at" means to focus or make a determined and unwavering effort towards achieving something. It implies a strong commitment and determination in pursuing a particular goal or objective.

make sth out of nothing The idiom "make something out of nothing" means to create or accomplish something significant, noteworthy, or valuable with limited resources or starting from scratch. It refers to the ability to transform or develop something meaningful despite having few or seemingly insignificant materials or opportunities.

curdle sb's blood, at make sb's blood curdle The idiom "curdle someone's blood" or "make someone's blood curdle" means to shock or frighten someone deeply. It refers to a disturbing or horrifying event, experience, or statement that creates a feeling of extreme fear or revulsion, similar to the sensation of curdling milk or other liquids. It suggests that something is so horrifying or disturbing that it can cause a physical reaction, making one's blood feel as if it is curdling or turning to an unpleasant substance.

make the world go round The idiom "make the world go round" refers to something or someone that is essential, vital, or necessary for the functioning or survival of society. It suggests that without this particular element or individual, the world would not be able to function smoothly or properly. It emphasizes the significant role that this thing or person plays in maintaining balance, progress, and overall well-being in the world.

make the bed The idiom "make the bed" refers to the act of tidying up or arranging a bed properly by straightening the sheets, fluffing the pillows, and folding the blankets. It is often used metaphorically to mean taking care of or organizing something to make it neat and presentable.

make no apologies for (something) The idiom "make no apologies for (something)" means to be unapologetic or unashamed about a particular belief, action, or attribute. It implies being confident and unwavering, regardless of any potential criticism or judgment from others.

make the beast with two backs The idiom "make the beast with two backs" is a euphemism for sexual intercourse. It is derived from Shakespeare's play "Othello" where he used it to refer to the act of lovemaking between two people.

make a grab at sm or sth The idiom "make a grab at someone or something" refers to making a sudden and desperate attempt to obtain or seize someone or something quickly, often done without much consideration or thought. It implies a sense of urgency, greediness, or impulsive action.

make short work of sm or sth The idiom "make short work of someone or something" means to complete a task quickly and easily, often by swiftly overcoming any obstacles or challenges. It implies that the task or person in question was dealt with efficiently and without much effort.

You cannot make a silk purse out of a sow's ear The idiom "You cannot make a silk purse out of a sow's ear" means that it is impossible to create something valuable or superior from something that is of inferior quality or has no potential. It suggests that no matter how much effort or skill is applied, the end result will still be limited or subpar due to the inherent nature or quality of the starting material.

make room (for sm or sth) The idiom "make room (for someone or something)" means to create space or accommodation for someone or something. It can be used in a physical sense, referring to clearing or organizing an area to allow for the entry or placement of someone or something. Additionally, it can be used figuratively to indicate making time or creating opportunity for someone or something.

make up your mind The idiom "make up your mind" means to decide on something or make a firm decision about a particular matter or choice. It implies that a person needs to resolve their thoughts or opinions on a specific issue and come to a conclusion.

make a clean sweep The idiom "make a clean sweep" means to completely eliminate or remove something, leaving no trace or remnants behind. It often refers to a thorough or comprehensive action taken to get rid of something entirely.

don't make me laugh! The idiom "don't make me laugh!" is a sarcastic expression used to dismiss or show disbelief towards something that is considered absurd, ridiculous, or highly unlikely. It implies that the statement or suggestion being made is so ridiculous or amusing that it is not worth serious consideration or that it is impossible to take seriously.

you canâ€™t make an omelette without breaking a few eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelette without breaking a few eggs" means that in order to achieve a desired outcome or make progress, it is inevitable to experience some difficulties, sacrifices, or negative consequences along the way. Just like you need to break eggs to make an omelette, sometimes there is a need to endure hardships or make sacrifices in order to achieve success or accomplish a goal.

make demands of The idiom "make demands of" means to ask or expect someone to fulfill certain requirements or requests. It refers to asserting authority or exerting influence in order to obtain what one wants or needs from another person. It often implies a sense of entitlement or assertiveness in requesting specific actions or outcomes.

donâ€™t make me laugh The idiom "don't make me laugh" is a rhetorical expression used to dismiss a statement or claim as ridiculous, dishonest, or laughable. It suggests that the speaker finds the idea or suggestion so absurd that it is not even worth considering seriously or engaging with humorously.

make a dent in sth The idiom "make a dent in something" means to make progress or achieve an impact, usually in a difficult or challenging situation. It refers to accomplishing a significant or noticeable effect, particularly when tackling a task or problem that may seem overwhelming or insurmountable.

make oneâ€™s bed The idiom "make oneâ€™s bed" refers to taking responsibility for one's actions or decisions, as well as dealing with the consequences or unfavorable circumstances that result from those actions or decisions. It implies that individuals should take ownership and face the outcomes of their choices.

make both ends meet, at make ends meet The idiom "make both ends meet" or "make ends meet" means to have just enough money to cover all one's expenses and financial obligations. It refers to managing one's income and expenditure in a way that one's income is enough to cover all necessary expenses, leaving no financial deficit at the end of the month or the designated period.

make oneself heard The idiom "make oneself heard" means to speak or express oneself in a way that ensures others listen and understand, often in a situation where one's opinions or thoughts may be ignored or overlooked. It implies the act of asserting one's voice or viewpoint effectively, typically by speaking loudly, clearly, or confidently.

make the first move The idiom "make the first move" means to take the initiative or initiate action in a situation, often referring to being the first to start a conversation, relationship, negotiation, or any form of interaction. It implies an act of bravery or confidence in stepping forward before others do.

make sm look ridiculous The idiom "make someone look ridiculous" means to expose or highlight someone's behavior, actions, or appearance in a way that makes them appear foolish, absurd, or laughable. It refers to the act of causing embarrassment or humiliation to someone by drawing attention to their shortcomings, mistakes, or inadequacies in a mocking or humorous manner.

make a beeline for sb/sth The idiom "make a beeline for sb/sth" means to go straight towards someone or something with determination and without any delay or distraction. It implies that the person is focused on reaching their target quickly and directly.

make a monkey out of sb The idiom "make a monkey out of someone" means to embarrass, deceive, or make a fool out of someone, often through playful or cunning behavior. It implies making someone look ridiculous, absurd, or foolish in front of others.

make a living from sth The idiom "make a living from something" refers to earning money or generating income from a specific source or activity. It implies a person's ability to support themselves financially by relying on a particular skill, profession, business, or any other means of income. The idiom emphasizes the concept of earning a livelihood or sustaining one's economic needs through the specified endeavor.

make a noise about sth The idiom "make a noise about something" means to complain or protest loudly and persistently about a particular issue or matter, often in an attempt to garner attention, raise awareness, or seek resolution. It implies making a fuss or drawing attention to a situation in order to bring about change or make one's views and concerns heard.

make a break for something/for it The idiom "make a break for something/for it" means to make a sudden and quick attempt to escape or reach a goal, typically involving overcoming obstacles or taking risks. It implies an urgent and determined action to seize an opportunity or avoid a difficult situation.

make no claim to be sth The idiom "make no claim to be sth" means to assert or declare that one does not possess a particular attribute, quality, or characteristic. It is a way of expressing modesty or acknowledging one's limitations.

make it your business to do sth The idiom "make it your business to do something" means to take it upon oneself as a personal responsibility or duty to do something. It suggests a strong commitment and dedication to ensure that the specified action is performed.

make as if to do The idiom "make as if to do" means to pretend or give the appearance of preparing to do something without actually doing it. It refers to creating a false impression or mimicking an action, typically in order to deceive or mislead someone.

make sense of sth The idiom "make sense of sth" means to understand or comprehend something, often in a logical or rational manner. It refers to the act of finding meaning, order, or coherence in something that may initially seem confusing or difficult to grasp.

make gorge rise The idiom "make one's gorge rise" means to cause intense disgust, revulsion, or repulsion in someone. It conveys a strong negative reaction to something, often due to its offensive, unpleasant, or shocking nature.

make sb's hair stand on end The idiom "make sb's hair stand on end" means to cause someone to feel extreme fear, horror, or intense shock. It refers to a situation or event that is so scary or unsettling that it creates a physical reaction, causing the person's hair to stand straight up.

make a man (out) of sb The idiom "make a man (out) of someone" refers to helping or challenging someone to grow, mature, or become stronger, particularly in relation to facing difficult or challenging situations. It implies transforming or shaping an individual into a more capable, confident, or resilient person.

make mischief The idiom "make mischief" means to intentionally cause trouble or create problems, often by instigating conflicts or stirring up mischief.

make a difference to sm The idiom "make a difference to someone" means to have a significant or positive impact on the person or situation mentioned. It suggests that one's actions or presence can bring about a noticeable change or improvement for someone else.

make the dust fly The idiom "make the dust fly" means to exert oneself vigorously, intensely, or with great energy and enthusiasm to achieve a goal or complete a task. It implies a sense of speed, efficiency, and determination towards accomplishing something quickly. It can also refer to causing a significant stir or commotion by carrying out an action with substantial impact or effect.

make light of sth To "make light of something" means to minimize or downplay the significance, seriousness, or importance of something. It refers to treating a matter or situation as less serious or significant than it truly is.

make a spectacle of yourself The idiom "make a spectacle of yourself" means to behave in a way that draws attention to oneself in a foolish, embarrassing, or attention-seeking manner. It refers to acting in a manner that others find noticeable, often negatively, and can result in public humiliation or criticism.

make off with The idiom "make off with" means to steal or take something quickly, often without permission or detection. It implies a swift and escaping action, suggesting that the person or people involved are leaving the scene with the stolen item(s).

make allowance for The idiom "make allowance for" means to consider or take into account certain factors or circumstances when making judgments, decisions, or calculations. It implies adjusting or accommodating for unexpected or exceptional situations or possibilities.

make a joke of (something) The idiom "make a joke of (something)" means to treat or speak of something in a dismissive or light-hearted manner, usually with the intention of belittling or mocking its significance or seriousness. It suggests making light of a serious matter or treating it as a trivial or insignificant issue.

make (something) up out of whole cloth The idiom "make (something) up out of whole cloth" means to fabricate or invent something entirely, without any basis of truth or evidence. It refers to creating a story, information, or explanation from scratch, without any factual foundation.

make the fur fly The idiom "make the fur fly" means to cause or provoke a fight, conflict, or intense confrontation. It implies stirring up or instigating a heated argument or controversy.

It takes all kinds (to make a world). The idiom "It takes all kinds (to make a world)" means that people are diverse and varied in their personalities, characteristics, and opinions. It implies that the world is composed of different individuals with unique traits and perspectives, and that this diversity is essential for a functioning society or for creating a complete picture of humanity. It suggests that differences should be recognized, appreciated, and respected.

make game of The idiom "make game of" means to mock, ridicule, or make fun of someone or something in a lighthearted or jesting manner. It implies teasing or joking at the expense of others.

make a grab at The idiom "make a grab at" is usually used to describe a sudden or impulsive attempt to take or seize something, often in a forceful or aggressive manner. It implies an act of trying to acquire or obtain something quickly and with urgency. This idiom often conveys a sense of desperation or a disregard for rules or proper methods.

make the best of it The idiom "make the best of it" means to accept and make the most out of a difficult or unfavorable situation. It implies finding the positive aspects or opportunities within the circumstances and adapting oneself accordingly.

make arrangements for The idiom "make arrangements for" means to organize or plan something in advance, typically involving details, logistics, or agreements, to ensure that an event or situation is properly taken care of or prepared for.

make a grandstand play The idiom "make a grandstand play" refers to performing an action, usually in a dramatic or showy manner, with the intention of impressing or gaining attention from others rather than focusing on practical or effective results. It is often used to describe a behavior aimed at public display or an extravagant gesture primarily for the sake of appearance or self-promotion.

make a beeline for something/somebody To "make a beeline for something/somebody" means to move quickly and directly towards a particular destination or person without any hesitation or deviation. It implies a focused and determined approach towards reaching the intended goal or reaching someone as soon as possible. The idiom is often used to describe someone's swift and direct movement towards a desired target or person.

make overtures about doing sth The idiom "make overtures about doing something" means to initiate or propose something, often in a diplomatic or polite manner, in order to establish a discussion or negotiation. It implies reaching out or expressing a willingness to engage in a particular action or project.

make faces (at someone) The idiom "make faces (at someone)" means to contort one's facial expression in a humorous, mocking, or disapproving manner in order to convey a message or to intentionally provoke a reaction from someone. It often involves distorting or exaggerating one's features or expressions to display emotions such as anger, disgust, mockery, or amusement toward the person being targeted.

make the best of something/it The idiom "make the best of something/it" means to accept and work with the situation or circumstances one is facing in order to maximize the positive aspects or outcomes. It implies finding the positive aspects or opportunities within a challenging or less than ideal situation and making the most of them. It encourages resilience, adaptability, and a positive attitude towards adversity.

make no bones about sth The idiom "make no bones about something" means to openly and directly express one's opinion or intention without any hesitation or ambiguity. It implies being straightforward and not attempting to deceive or downplay the importance of something.

make an example of somebody The idiom "make an example of somebody" means to punish or treat someone in a harsh way as a warning or deterrent to others. It involves using the individual's punishment as a public display to deter similar behavior in others.

make free with something The idiom "make free with something" means to use or handle something without asking for permission or without appropriate regard for its ownership or proper usage. It implies being overly familiar or excessively casual in one's approach towards another person's belongings or resources.

Doctors make the worst patients. The idiom "Doctors make the worst patients" refers to the tendency of healthcare professionals to exhibit resistance or difficult behavior when they themselves become patients. It suggests that doctors, due to their extensive medical knowledge and experience, often have high expectations, question diagnoses, or seek various treatment options, which may make their interactions with other doctors or healthcare providers more challenging. Furthermore, it implies that doctors may have an inherent disposition to be skeptical or less compliant when it comes to their own medical care.

make good something The idiom "make good something" means to rectify or repair a mistake, deficiency, or problem. It refers to taking action to correct or remedy a situation in order to make it satisfactory or acceptable.

make a bolt for (someone or something) The idiom "make a bolt for (someone or something)" means to quickly and abruptly move towards a specific person or thing, usually in a desperate or impulsive manner. It often implies a sense of urgency or a strong desire to reach the target as fast as possible.

make (all) the right noises The idiom "make (all) the right noises" means to say or do things that are expected or appropriate in a situation, often in order to create a positive impression or gain approval. It implies that the actions or statements made are done merely for show or to project a positive image rather than being genuine or sincere.

make amends (to somebody) (for something/for doing something) The idiom "make amends (to somebody) (for something/for doing something)" means to consciously take actions or make efforts to correct a mistake, apologize, or compensate for a wrong that has been committed towards someone or something.

make a fool of somebody The idiom "make a fool of somebody" means to cause someone to appear foolish, often by embarrassing or tricking them intentionally. It implies making someone look silly or stupid in front of others, undermining their credibility or reputation.

make every effort to do something The idiom "make every effort to do something" means to put forth maximum or extraordinary effort in order to achieve a particular goal or complete a task. It implies a strong determination and willingness to go to great lengths or overcome obstacles in pursuit of a desired outcome.

make the best of a bad situation The idiom "make the best of a bad situation" means to try to find the positive aspects or opportunities in a difficult or unfavorable circumstance and make the most out of it, despite the challenges or setbacks. It suggests making an effort to remain hopeful, optimistic, and proactive rather than dwelling on the negatives.

make merry The idiom "make merry" means to enjoy oneself, have a good time, and engage in joyful and festive activities. It refers to celebrating, rejoicing, and experiencing happiness and merriment.

make away with sm or sth The idiom "make away with something or someone" means to steal, take, or remove something or someone in a secretive or unlawful manner, often without being detected or caught.

make a decision The idiom "make a decision" refers to the act of choosing or selecting an option or course of action from among various alternatives. It involves using one's judgment, thought process, and often considering information or weighing factors before arriving at a conclusion.

it takes all sorts (to make a world) The idiom "it takes all sorts (to make a world)" means that people come in all different shapes, sizes, and personalities, and that diversity is essential for a functioning society. It acknowledges that differences and unique qualities should be respected and embraced as they contribute to the richness and complexity of the world.

make/take a note The idiom "make/take a note" refers to the act of writing down or recording important information or instructions for future reference or remembrance. It implies actively paying attention and ensuring that the information is not forgotten or overlooked.

You cannot make bricks without straw. The idiom "You cannot make bricks without straw" means that it is impossible to accomplish or produce something without the necessary resources or materials. It signifies that certain elements or ingredients are essential for achieving a desired outcome. Without the required components, the task or objective cannot be successfully completed.

make someone's gorge rise The idiom "make someone's gorge rise" means to cause someone to feel disgust, revulsion, or a strong feeling of aversion towards something or someone. It implies that the situation or person in question is so repulsive or objectionable that it triggers a physiological reaction, specifically a rise in the throat (gorge).

make book The idiom "make book" typically refers to the act of taking bets or accepting wagers on a particular outcome, often done by bookmakers or individuals involved in gambling activities. It can also be used more generally to describe the act of predicting a future event or outcome.

make your skin crawl The idiom "make your skin crawl" means to make someone feel extremely uncomfortable, disturbed, or disgusted. It refers to a sensation that causes a physical reaction, often depicted as a feeling of creepy or eerie discomfort.

make arrangements for sm The idiom "make arrangements for someone" means to organize or plan the necessary details or actions for someone, typically in preparation for a specific event, activity, or situation. It involves taking the responsibility to ensure everything is coordinated and in order to fulfill the needs or requirements of the individual in question.

make a big thing (out) of sth The idiom "make a big thing (out) of sth" means to unnecessarily emphasize or exaggerate the importance or significance of something, often causing more attention or focus to be given to it than necessary. It can also refer to making a fuss or creating an overly dramatic situation out of a relatively minor or insignificant issue.

make advances at (someone) The idiom "make advances at (someone)" refers to the act of showing romantic or sexual interest in someone, typically through flirtation or romantic gestures. It implies attempting to pursue a romantic or sexual relationship with the person in question.

make light work of (someone or something) The idiom "make light work of (someone or something)" means to complete a task or defeat someone with ease, efficiency, or minimal effort. It implies that the person is skilled, capable, or powerful enough to accomplish something quickly and effortlessly.

make head swim The idiom "make head swim" means to feel overwhelmed or confused by a situation or information. It refers to the sensation of dizziness or disorientation, as if one's head is spinning or swimming due to the complexity or volume of stimuli.

make capital of The idiom "make capital of" means to take advantage of a situation or exploit it for personal gain, often by exaggerating or amplifying the circumstances to one's advantage. It involves using something to make the maximum profit, benefit, or advantage from it.

make common cause with (someone or something) The idiom "make common cause with (someone or something)" means to join or collaborate with someone or something in order to achieve a common goal or purpose. It suggests creating an alliance or partnership with others who share a similar interest or objective. It generally implies working together towards a common cause or facing the same challenges, often for mutual benefit or to increase the likelihood of success.

make the best of a bad bargain The idiom "make the best of a bad bargain" means to accept a situation that is not ideal or desirable and do whatever is possible to improve it or make the most out of it. It implies finding positive aspects, focusing on the available options, and making the most appropriate choice given the circumstances.

make or break somebody/something The idiom "make or break somebody/something" means to have a significant impact on the success or failure of a person, organization, or situation. It refers to a critical point where a decision or action can determine the ultimate outcome or destiny of someone or something. It implies that the situation is pivotal and has the power to either lead to great achievement or complete failure.

make up for lost time The idiom "make up for lost time" means to work harder, move quickly, or achieve more in order to compensate for time that has been wasted or lost in the past. It is often used when someone wants to accomplish a lot in a short period or to catch up on missed opportunities or progress.

make sure (of sth) The idiom "make sure (of something)" means to take necessary actions or precautions to ensure that something is certain, accurate, or secure. It involves confirming or verifying information, details, or circumstances to eliminate any doubt or uncertainty.

make a fortune The idiom "make a fortune" means to amass a significant amount of wealth or become extremely rich. It typically implies achieving financial success through business ventures, investments, or luck.

make certain of sth The idiom "make certain of something" means to ensure or guarantee that something will happen or be true. It refers to taking necessary actions or measures to confirm or verify a particular outcome.

make a clean break To make a clean break means to sever ties or end a relationship completely and decisively, without leaving any loose ends or unresolved issues. It typically refers to a situation where a person or a group of people want to completely detach themselves from a past situation or person in order to start anew. This idiom emphasizes the importance of making a clear and definitive separation.

make a meal (out) of sth The idiom "make a meal (out) of something" means to unnecessarily or excessively exaggerate or complicate a situation or task. It suggests taking more time, effort, or attention than is necessary or warranted. It can also refer to making something into a larger or more significant event than it needs to be.

Donâ€™t make a federal case out of it! The idiom "Don't make a federal case out of it!" is used to convey a stern request to not exaggerate or overreact to a minor issue or situation. It implies that the person should avoid blowing things out of proportion and unnecessarily involving higher authorities or making an issue more serious than it actually is.

to barely make it on time The idiom "to barely make it on time" means to arrive or complete a task with very little time to spare, typically causing stress or urgency. It implies that the person or thing being referred to almost did not meet the required deadline or arrival time.

make sheep's eyes at (one) The idiom "make sheep's eyes at (one)" means to give someone a flirtatious or longing look, usually with the intention of gaining their affection or attention. It refers to the way sheep sometimes gaze at something or someone with a soft and innocent expression in their eyes.

make a pass at The idiom "make a pass at" means to romantically or sexually approach or proposition someone, typically with the intention of seducing them or initiating some form of physical interaction.

make (one) hot under the collar The idiom "make (one) hot under the collar" means to cause someone to become angry, irritated, or agitated. It suggests that something has provoked or angered the person to the point where their face becomes flushed and heated, resembling the physical reaction of wearing a tight collar that causes discomfort.

do/make (all) the running The idiom "do/make (all) the running" means to take charge or initiative in a particular situation, and do most or all of the work or effort involved. It refers to being the one who is actively making things happen or progressing towards a goal, while others may be less involved or passive in their contributions.

make up mind The idiom "make up one's mind" means to reach a decision or come to a conclusion about something. It implies that a person has considered different options or choices and has finally made a firm decision on a particular matter.

make a bolt for it The idiom "make a bolt for it" means to suddenly run away or escape from a difficult or dangerous situation, often without thinking or planning.

make advances The idiom "make advances" means to initiate or attempt to establish a romantic or sexual relationship with someone, typically through flirtation, compliments, or other gestures of interest.

make inroads into something The idiom "make inroads into something" means to gradually or successfully gain progress, influence, or success in a particular area or field. It generally implies making significant strides towards achieving a goal or penetrating a previously inaccessible or challenging territory.

make noises The idiom "make noises" means to make statements or take actions that suggest potential interest, intention, or support for something, often without committing fully or definitively. It implies that someone is making vague or preliminary indications of their thoughts or plans without committing to any specific course of action.

make sm's head swim The idiom "make someone's head swim" means to confuse or overwhelm someone with a large amount of information or complex thoughts, making it difficult for them to think clearly or understand what is being said. It can also refer to an intense or overwhelming experience that leaves someone feeling disoriented or mentally exhausted.

make a difference The idiom "make a difference" means to have a significant impact or effect on a situation, person, or outcome by bringing about positive changes or improvements. It implies that one's actions, efforts, or contributions can create meaningful and noticeable results.

two wrongs donâ€™t make a right The idiom "two wrongs donâ€™t make a right" means that it is not justified to respond to a wrongdoing or an injustice by committing another wrongdoing. It emphasizes that retaliating or seeking revenge does not resolve the initial problem or make the situation better. Instead, it suggests that the appropriate approach is to find a peaceful or fair resolution to address the wrong.

make the world go around/round The idiom "make the world go around/round" typically means that something or someone is essential or vital for the functioning or continuation of society or life in general. It usually implies that the mentioned subject or factor has a significant impact on various aspects of life.

make sense of something The idiom "make sense of something" means to understand or comprehend a particular situation, idea, or information, especially when it may initially seem confusing or unclear.

make book on something The idiom "make book on something" refers to making predictions or placing bets on a particular outcome or event. It originated from the practice of bookmaking, where bookmakers create odds and accept bets on various events, such as sports competitions or horse races. It implies being confident or certain enough about an outcome to wager or make calculated predictions.

make it worth while The idiom "make it worth while" means to ensure that an effort, action, or endeavor is valuable, rewarding, or beneficial enough to justify the time, energy, or resources spent on it. It implies that the result or outcome should be meaningful or advantageous enough to be considered worthwhile or worth the effort.

make believe The idiom "make believe" refers to pretending or creating an imaginary scenario or situation that is not real. It often involves acting as if something exists or pretending to be someone or something that one is not.

make good time The idiom "make good time" means to travel or progress quickly, efficiently, and without delays or setbacks.

make as if to do something The idiom "make as if to do something" means to simulate or pretend to take an action or behave in a certain way, often as a way of testing, deceiving, or amusing someone else. It involves creating an impression that one is about to do something without actually following through with it.

make whoopee The idiom "make whoopee" is a euphemistic expression for having a lively and enjoyable time, often referring to engaging in lively social or romantic activities. It commonly implies having a great deal of fun or indulging in various pleasurable experiences.

make all the difference (in the world) The idiom "make all the difference (in the world)" means that something has a significant impact or influence on a situation, outcome, or someone's life. It implies that the mentioned thing or action is crucial and can completely transform or improve a situation.

make a pig's ear of The idiom "make a pig's ear of" means to do something very badly or clumsily, resulting in a messy or disastrous outcome. It suggests a complete failure or a poor attempt at accomplishing a task.

make believe that The idiom "make believe that" means to pretend or imagine something, particularly when it is not true or real. It is often used when referring to creating fictional scenarios or situations.

make as if The idiom "make as if" is used to describe someone pretending or acting as if they are doing something or experiencing a situation that is not true or real. It can also imply feigning or simulating a specific behavior, action, or emotion.

make friends The idiom "make friends" means to develop new or establish positive relationships with others, often by showing friendliness, kindness, or by getting to know them better in order to build a social network or support system.

make a fast, (or quick) buck The idiom "make a fast, (or quick) buck" means to earn money quickly or easily, often through unethical or opportunistic means. It refers to a desire for immediate financial gain without much effort or long-term planning.

make a point of The idiom "make a point of" means to prioritize or take special care to do something. It implies emphasizing the significance or importance of the action.

make a move on To "make a move on" someone means to take action or initiate romantic or flirtatious behavior towards them, usually with the intention of expressing interest or attraction. It implies advancing or pursuing a romantic or sexual relationship with someone.

make (one's) day The idiom "make (one's) day" refers to something that brings extreme joy, happiness, or satisfaction to someone. It suggests that the particular action or event has significantly improved their mood or overall experience.

make every effort to do The idiom "make every effort to do" means to exert a maximum or utmost amount of effort and diligence in attempting to accomplish something. It implies going above and beyond to achieve a particular goal or task.

make somebody's life a misery The idiom "make somebody's life a misery" means to cause constant difficulties, pain, or suffering for someone, making their life extremely unpleasant or unbearable. It refers to a situation where someone causes extreme distress or torment for another person, making them feel constantly frustrated, unhappy, or overwhelmed.

make your hair stand on end The idiom "make your hair stand on end" is used to describe a situation or experience that is extremely frightening, shocking, or terrifying, causing the hairs on the back of one's neck or arms to stand upright due to fear or intense emotion.

make sb feel small The idiom "make sb feel small" refers to the act of making someone feel insignificant, unimportant, or inferior. It often involves actions or words that belittle or demean a person, causing them to feel diminished or devalued.

make sb's toes curl The idiom "make sb's toes curl" means to make someone feel extremely uncomfortable, embarrassed, or disgusted. It implies that the situation or behavior described is so awkward or cringe-worthy that it causes physical discomfort, as though one's toes are curling in response.

you can't make bricks without straw The idiom "you can't make bricks without straw" means that it is impossible to achieve a desired outcome or complete a task without the necessary materials, resources, or information. It reflects the idea that certain prerequisites or essential components are required for a successful endeavor.

make/do the rounds The idiom "make/do the rounds" means to visit or go around a series of places, often for a specific purpose, such as delivering something or checking on various people or things. It can also refer to something becoming widely circulated or talked about.

It donâ€™t make me no nevermind The idiom "It donâ€™t make me no nevermind" is a colloquial expression that means something doesn't bother or affect someone at all. It implies that the person is indifferent or unconcerned about the matter being discussed.

make it known The idiom "make it known" means to communicate or reveal information or intentions so that others are aware of it. It refers to expressing something openly and ensuring that it is understood or acknowledged by others.

make common cause The idiom "make common cause" refers to the act of forming an alliance or joining forces with someone or a group to pursue a shared goal or work towards a common purpose. It implies working together, often despite differences or conflicts, for the benefit or advancement of a particular cause or objective.

Make my day! The idiom "Make my day!" is a phrase that originated from a famous line spoken by the character Harry Callahan (played by Clint Eastwood) in the movie "Sudden Impact" (1983). It is an expression used to convey a challenge or threat, essentially meaning "go ahead and do something that will give me a reason or opportunity to take action or retaliate." It is often used to assert dominance or provoke someone into taking an action that will likely have negative consequences for them.

make a dive (for something) The idiom "make a dive (for something)" typically means to quickly and eagerly move towards something, usually in an attempt to grab or catch it. It implies a sudden and purposeful action, often with an element of urgency or determination.

do you want to make sth/anything of it? The idiom "do you want to make something/anything of it?" is a rhetorical question used to invite someone to confront or challenge a situation, statement, or disagreement. It implies a readiness to engage in an argument or debate about the matter at hand.

can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear The idiom "can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear" means that it is impossible to create something valuable or impressive from something that is inherently of poor quality or lacking in potential. It emphasizes the notion that certain things or situations have innate limitations and cannot be easily transformed into something better.

make a monkey (out) of (someone or oneself) The idiom "make a monkey (out) of (someone or oneself)" refers to embarrassing or ridiculing someone, or behaving foolishly and making a fool of oneself. It suggests that someone's actions or behavior make them look foolish or cause others to mock or laugh at them.

make its way smw The idiom "make its way" means to progress or advance towards a destination or goal, often with some effort or difficulty. It implies a gradual movement or progression over a period of time.

make out of nothing The idiom "make out of nothing" means to create or invent something when there initially seemed to be no resources, inspiration, or possibility. It implies the skill or ability to turn very little into something significant or to find solutions or opportunities in seemingly difficult or limited situations.

make a laughingstock of (oneself or something) The idiom "make a laughingstock of (oneself or something)" means to publicly embarrass oneself or something, leading others to ridicule or mock it. It refers to a situation where someone or something becomes a source of amusement or ridicule due to foolish actions, behavior, or mistakes.

make a day of doing The idiom "make a day of doing" means to spend an entire day engaged in an activity or series of activities, typically enjoyable or recreational ones. It implies dedicating ample time and effort to fully embrace and enjoy the chosen pursuits or pastimes.

make every effort to do sth The idiom "make every effort to do something" means to put in maximum or utmost effort to accomplish or achieve a particular task, goal, or objective. It implies going above and beyond what is typically required or expected, demonstrating dedication, determination, and perseverance in one's endeavors.

make like a tree and leave The idiom "make like a tree and leave" is a humorous way of telling someone to go away or depart from a situation. It suggests that the person should imitate a tree by standing still for a moment, and then "leave" by walking away.

make hair stand on end The idiom "make hair stand on end" refers to a situation or experience that is chilling, terrifying or extremely frightening, often causing one's hair to feel as if it stands upright due to fear or horror. It signifies a spine-tingling sensation or a strong emotional reaction that makes one feel deeply disturbed or unsettled.

make (good) use of sth The idiom "make (good) use of something" means to utilize or employ something effectively and efficiently for a beneficial purpose or advantage. It emphasizes the act of using something in a way that maximizes its value or potential.

enough to make the angels weep The idiom "enough to make the angels weep" is often used to describe something exceptionally sad, tragic, or heartbreaking that would elicit an emotional response even from angels, who are traditionally seen as pure and compassionate beings. It implies that the situation or event is extremely distressing or sorrowful.

make heavy weather of sth/doing sth The idiom "make heavy weather of something/doing something" means to unnecessarily complicate or struggle with a task or situation that should be relatively easy or straightforward. It refers to someone who puts excessive effort or overreacts to minor issues, making things more difficult than they need to be.

delighted to make your acquaintance The phrase "delighted to make your acquaintance" is an idiomatic expression used to express one's pleasure or joy in meeting someone for the first time. It indicates a positive and enthusiastic response to being introduced to a new person.

make ready (for something) The idiom "make ready (for something)" means to prepare or get something ready for a specific purpose or event. It involves completing necessary tasks or making necessary arrangements in advance to ensure everything is in a suitable state for the desired outcome.

make game of (someone or something) The idiom "make game of (someone or something)" means to mock, ridicule, or make fun of someone or something. It refers to teasing or joking at the expense of others, sometimes in a mean-spirited or disrespectful manner.

grandstand play, make a To "make a grandstand play" means to show off or perform flamboyantly in order to gain attention or applause from others, often without any practical purpose or genuine intent. It refers to someone who is more focused on impressing the audience rather than achieving a meaningful outcome. The term originates from the idea of a grandstand in a stadium, where spectators sit and watch the performance.

make sm or sth tick The idiom "make someone or something tick" means to figure out the key factors or elements that motivate or drive someone or something, or to understand what makes someone or something function effectively. It refers to understanding the inner workings or mechanisms behind someone or something's success or functionality.

make short work of sb/sth The idiom "make short work of someone or something" means to complete a task or defeat someone quickly and easily, without much effort or hesitation. It implies that the action was done efficiently and swiftly, leaving no chance for resistance or delay.

make up one's mind The idiom "make up one's mind" means to decide or come to a conclusion about something after careful consideration or deliberation. It refers to making a firm decision or choice after being indecisive or uncertain.

make your voice heard The idiom "make your voice heard" means to express your opinions or concerns openly and assertively. It implies taking action to ensure that your viewpoint or ideas are acknowledged and recognized by others.

make your flesh creep The idiom "make your flesh creep" refers to something that causes an overwhelming feeling of fear, unease, or disgust, typically resulting in the physical sensation of one's skin crawling or shivering.

you can take/lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink The idiom "you can take/lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink" means that you can provide someone with an opportunity or assistance, but you cannot force them to take advantage of it or cooperate if they are unwilling. It signifies that although you may offer guidance or support, it is ultimately up to the individual to make their own choices or decisions.

have/make a stab at sth/doing sth The idiom "have/make a stab at sth/doing sth" means to attempt or try something, often in an uncertain or haphazard manner, without being fully confident of success. It implies making an effort to accomplish or understand something, even if it may not be perfect or successful.

make something with (one's) own fair hand(s) The idiom "make something with one's own fair hand(s)" means to create or construct something entirely by oneself, usually by using one's own skills, effort, or resources. It emphasizes personal involvement, craftsmanship, and the absence of assistance or external input in the process of creating something.

make your flesh creep/crawl The idiom "make your flesh creep/crawl" refers to a situation or experience that causes strong feelings of fear, disgust, or unease. It typically describes something that is so eerie or frightening that it causes a physical reaction, such as hair standing on end or a tingling sensation on one's skin.

make the most of something/somebody/yourself The idiom "make the most of something/somebody/yourself" means to utilize or take full advantage of the available opportunities, resources, or abilities to achieve the best possible outcome or potential. It emphasizes making the best use of what one has in order to maximize a situation or achieve personal success.

make something of whole cloth The idiom "make something of whole cloth" means to fabricate or create something entirely from scratch, often implying that it is a fabrication or invention with no basis or truth. It refers to the act of inventing or making up a story, explanation, or concept that is completely fictional or untrue.

make a big deal out of To make a big deal out of something means to excessively emphasize or exaggerate the importance or significance of a particular thing or situation. It implies that someone is giving undue attention, concern, or drama to something that may not warrant such a reaction.

make a bolt for sm or sth The idiom "make a bolt for something" means to quickly and hurriedly move towards or attempt to reach something or somewhere, often in an effort to escape or seize an opportunity. It typically implies an urgent or desperate action to achieve a desired outcome.

make amends (to sm) (for sm or sth) The idiom "make amends (to sm) (for sm or sth)" means to compensate for a mistake, wrongdoing, or harm caused to someone or something by taking appropriate actions or offering apologies or reparations. It involves making things right or attempting to rectify the damage caused.

you canâ€™t make an omelette without breaking eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs" means that in order to achieve something positive or desirable, it is often necessary to endure some negative or undesirable consequences. It suggests that progress or success often comes at a cost or involves sacrifices.

make a point of doing The idiom "make a point of doing" means to intentionally or deliberately ensure that something gets done or that a particular action is taken. It implies a strong commitment or determination to accomplish or prioritize that particular task or action.

make certain (thatâ€¦) The idiom "make certain (thatâ€¦)" means to take specific actions or precautions to ensure that something is done or a particular outcome is achieved. It emphasizes the importance of being thorough and ensuring that no doubts or uncertainties remain.

make out a case for sth, at make a case for sth The idiom "make out a case for sth" or "make a case for sth" means to present or argue in favor of something by providing compelling reasons or evidence to support a particular stance or viewpoint. It involves constructing a persuasive argument to justify or prove the validity of a particular position or opinion.

you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink The idiom "you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" means that you can provide someone with an opportunity or the necessary means to do something, but you cannot force them to take advantage of it if they are not willing or motivated.

make a federal case (out) of (something) To "make a federal case (out) of (something)" means to exaggerate or overreact to a situation, making it seem far more serious, complex, or significant than it actually is. It implies that someone is making a big deal out of something trivial or minor, as if it were a matter that would typically be handled in a federal court, which deals with serious and significant cases.

make a pig of oneself The idiom "make a pig of oneself" means to eat or consume an excessive amount of food or to behave in a gluttonous manner. It implies indulging in excessive eating without regards to one's manners or self-control.

make an end of (something) The idiom "make an end of (something)" means to complete or finish something, often with a sense of finality or resolution. It implies bringing something to a conclusion, putting an end to it, or stopping it permanently.

make a point The idiom "make a point" refers to the act of expressing or emphasizing a specific idea, argument, or opinion in a clear and deliberate manner, typically with the intention of highlighting its importance or relevance. It is often used in conversations, debates, presentations, or discussions to ensure that a particular message or viewpoint is effectively communicated and understood by others.

make a bolt for something The idiom "make a bolt for something" means to suddenly and quickly run or move towards a particular destination or goal. It implies a sense of urgency and determination to reach or acquire something.

make it one's business to (do sth) The idiom "make it one's business to (do sth)" means to take personal initiative or responsibility to ensure that something is done or to involve oneself actively and consistently in a particular matter or activity. It implies that someone is determined or dedicated to accomplishing or addressing a specific task or issue, often regardless of whether it directly concerns them.

They don't make them like they used to The idiom "They don't make them like they used to" refers to the notion that the quality, craftsmanship, or durability of contemporary items or products is perceived to be inferior compared to those made in the past. It implies a belief that things made or manufactured in earlier times were of higher quality or better suited to their purpose.

make an honest buck The idiom "make an honest buck" means to earn money in a fair and ethical manner, typically through hard work and honest efforts. It implies that the individual is seeking legitimate means of financial gain, without engaging in any deceit or illegal activities.

make allowance(s) for (someone or something) The idiom "make allowance(s) for (someone or something)" means to consider or take into account someone's or something's potential influence, limitations, or circumstances when making decisions, judgments, or plans. It involves recognizing and accommodating specific factors or situations that may affect the outcome, expectations, or treatment of someone or something.

make no move The expression "make no move" refers to the act of refraining from taking any action or making any decision. It implies a state of inaction or hesitancy in a situation where a response or decision is expected.

make somebody's hair curl The idiom "make somebody's hair curl" means to shock or terrify someone deeply or to cause extreme fear, disgust, or horror. It suggests that something is so disturbing or frightening that it could cause one's hair to stand on end or curl.

make allowance(s) The definition of the idiom "make allowance(s)" is to take into consideration or to permit someone or oneself to have certain advantages or exceptions, usually due to special circumstances, such as making allowances for mistakes or difficulties.

Men make houses, women make homes The idiom "Men make houses, women make homes" implies that while men may construct physical structures or provide the foundation for a dwelling, it is often women who are responsible for creating a warm, nurturing, and contented atmosphere within that space. It suggests that women play a significant role in building a comfortable and harmonious living environment, often through their care, emotional support, and attention to details that make a house feel like a cherished home.

You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink The idiom "You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make it drink" means that you can offer someone guidance, advice, or an opportunity, but you cannot force them to act upon it or take advantage of it if they are unwilling. It implies that even with all the right conditions in place, people have to make their own choices and decisions.

can't make head nor/or tail of sth The idiom "can't make head nor/or tail of something" means to be unable to understand or comprehend something, usually due to its complexity, randomness, or lack of coherence. It implies confusion or bewilderment when trying to make sense of the situation or information.

make heavy weather The idiom "make heavy weather" refers to someone or something making a task or situation more difficult, complicated, or time-consuming than necessary. It implies that the person is adding unnecessary complications or overthinking, causing slow progress or inefficiency.

make a noise about (something) The idiom "make a noise about (something)" means to publicly or loudly complain or express one's dissatisfaction or disagreement about a particular issue or situation. It implies bringing attention to an issue through vocal protest or outcry.

make an exhibition of (oneself) The idiom "make an exhibition of (oneself)" means to behave in a way that attracts attention or embarrasses oneself due to showing off, being overly dramatic, or acting inappropriately in public. It implies that the person's behavior draws unwanted scrutiny or becomes the center of attention in a negative or embarrassing manner.

do you want to make something of it? The idiom "do you want to make something of it?" is a confrontational expression used when someone challenges or provokes another person, questioning if they want to escalate the situation or engage in a physical or verbal conflict. It implies a willingness to confront and assert oneself.

make a stink The idiom "make a stink" means to cause a strong, visible and audible protest or complaint about something perceived as wrong or unjust. It implies a willingness to make a fuss, raise an objection, or draw attention to an issue in order to bring about change or resolution.

make one's bed and lie in it The idiom "make one's bed and lie in it" means to accept the consequences of one's actions or decisions, particularly when they are negative or unfavorable. It implies that once someone has made a choice or taken a certain path, they must face the results, whether they are good or bad. This idiom emphasizes personal responsibility and accountability.

make a check The idiom "make a check" typically refers to the act of verifying or examining something carefully, often to ensure accuracy, correctness, or compliance. It can involve reviewing documents, data, or items to ensure they align with the expected standards or criteria. In a broader context, the phrase can also imply taking cautious or diligent actions to prevent or avoid potential issues or mistakes.

make like a banana and split The idiom "make like a banana and split" means to leave quickly or abruptly, often referring to the act of escaping or running away from a situation. It is a playful expression that suggests the person should exit as swiftly as a banana being peeled apart.

make (one's) bones The idiom "make (one's) bones" typically refers to proving oneself, especially in a challenging or dangerous situation, in order to earn respect, credibility, or a certain status within a group or profession. It often implies completing a task or demonstrating a level of skill or reliability that establishes one's reputation or place.

make a martyr of sb The idiom "make a martyr of someone" means to elevate an individual to a status of victimhood or heroic suffering, often by publicly celebrating or commemorating their sacrifices or hardships. It refers to the act of glorifying or placing undue importance on someone's suffering or death, which can be done to gain sympathy, incite admiration, or further a cause.

make a hole in (something) The idiom "make a hole in (something)" means to spend or use up a significant amount of something, typically money or resources. It suggests that the action depletes or reduces the quantity of that something considerably.

make (someone's) hackles rise The idiom "make (someone's) hackles rise" means to cause someone to become extremely angry, irritated, or provoked. It refers to the way the hairs on the back of an animal's neck (hackles) stand up when it feels threatened, signaling a defensive or aggressive response. Similarly, this phrase implies that someone's anger or annoyance is triggered by a particular action, comment, or behavior.

make all the difference The idiom "make all the difference" means to have a significant impact or to cause a marked change in a particular situation or outcome. It suggests that a certain factor or aspect can completely alter the result or significance of something.

make an example of someone The idiom "make an example of someone" means to punish or discipline someone publicly or harshly in order to serve as a warning to others and deter them from committing the same offense. It involves using someone's punishment as a way to set a precedent or as a deterrent to discourage others from engaging in similar behavior.

make an ass The idiom "make an ass" typically refers to someone acting foolishly, embarrassing themselves, or making a mistake. It suggests that the person is behaving in a way that is comparable to the foolishness or clumsiness commonly associated with a donkey or ass.

make someone look good The idiom "make someone look good" means to do something that enhances someone's reputation or makes them appear successful, competent, or admirable. It usually involves assisting or supporting that person in a way that reflects positively on them.

make yourself known The idiom "make yourself known" means to introduce yourself or to actively bring attention to your presence or existence in a situation or group. It implies taking action to become visible, acknowledged, or familiar to others.

make a stab at sth The idiom "make a stab at something" is used to describe attempting or making an effort at doing something, often without certainty of success. It implies taking a try or making an attempt at accomplishing a task or solving a problem, even if it may not be done perfectly or with complete confidence.

make a fast buck The idiom "make a fast buck" refers to quickly earning or making money, typically through short-term or opportunistic means, often without considering long-term consequences or ethics. It implies a focus on immediate financial gain rather than sustainable or ethical practices.

make a fool of The idiom "make a fool of" means to cause someone to be embarrassed, humiliated, or appear foolish through one's actions or behavior.

make way for The idiom "make way for" means to clear a path or create space for someone or something to pass through or be accommodated. It typically implies yielding, stepping aside, or giving priority to allow the intended person or object to move forward.

make a martyr of (oneself) The idiom "make a martyr of oneself" refers to an act of purposefully or unnecessarily enduring suffering or hardship in order to gain sympathy, attention, or to portray oneself as a victim. It implies an exaggerated sacrifice or self-imposed martyrdom for personal or ulterior motives.

not able to make anything out (of sm or sth) The idiom "not able to make anything out of (someone or something)" means being unable to understand or comprehend someone or something due to confusion, lack of clarity, or complexity. It suggests that the information, situation, or person is undecipherable or difficult to make sense of.

make a man (out) of somebody The idiom "make a man (out) of somebody" means to help someone develop maturity, strength, or courage, particularly by subjecting them to challenging or difficult experiences that test their character. It suggests that the person involved will become more mature, capable, or resilient as a result of facing and overcoming obstacles or hardships.

make a pig's ear of sth The idiom "make a pig's ear of something" means to do something very poorly or make a mess of it. It implies that the person has made a clumsy or ineffective attempt, resulting in a failure or a subpar outcome.

make cracks about The idiom "make cracks about" refers to making jokes or making lighthearted, mocking remarks about someone or something. It implies teasing or making fun of someone or something in a humorous manner.

make a federal case (out) of sth The idiom "make a federal case (out) of something" means to excessively or disproportionately exaggerate the significance, seriousness, or complexity of a situation or issue. It implies that someone is overreacting or making a big deal out of something that may not necessarily warrant such attention. It originated from the idea that in the United States legal system, bringing a case to the federal court is considered a major undertaking due to the complexity and seriousness associated with federal cases.

two wrongs don't make a right The idiom "two wrongs don't make a right" means that it is not justified to respond to a wrongdoing or a mistake by committing another wrongdoing. Retaliating in a negative or harmful manner does not rectify the initial problem but only adds to it. It emphasizes the importance of finding a fair and just solution instead of perpetuating a cycle of wrongdoing.

make out like a bandit To "make out like a bandit" is an idiom that means to make a substantial gain or profit, often unexpectedly or through unfair or opportunistic means. It implies achieving tremendous success or benefit in a situation, similar to how a bandit traditionally profits from a theft or successful raid.

when life gives you lemons, make lemonade The idiom "when life gives you lemons, make lemonade" means to make the best out of a difficult or challenging situation. It encourages a positive attitude and resilience when faced with adversity, urging individuals to find a way to turn setbacks or obstacles into opportunities. Just as one would make lemonade, a refreshing and sweet drink, from sour lemons, the idiom suggests finding ways to transform negatives into positives.

make mind up The idiom "make mind up" means to reach a decision or make a choice about something after considering different options or possibilities. It implies a process of deliberation or thought before finalizing a decision.

make sm's flesh crawl The idiom "make someone's flesh crawl" is used to describe something that is extremely disturbing, unsettling, or revolting to a person, causing a strong feeling of discomfort or fear. It refers to a sensation where one's skin may literally feel as if it is crawling with discomfort.

Fine feathers make fine birds. The idiom "Fine feathers make fine birds" means that one's appearance greatly affects how they are perceived by others. It suggests that dressing well or looking presentable can enhance one's overall image, regardless of their inherent qualities or abilities.

make big The idiom "make big" typically means to amplify or increase the significance, impact, or scale of something. It can refer to enhancing one's reputation, making something more impressive, or growing something in size or influence.

make allowance(s) for something The idiom "make allowance(s) for something" means to consider or take into account a particular factor or circumstance when planning or making decisions. It suggests being understanding, tolerant, or accommodating towards something that may affect or influence a situation.

make it The idiom "make it" has several possible definitions, depending on the context: 1. To succeed or achieve a desired outcome: When someone says they are trying to "make it," they are typically referring to achieving success or accomplishing a goal. For example, "I am working hard to make it in the music industry." 2. To arrive at a particular place or event on time: When someone says they need to "make it" somewhere, they mean they want to arrive or attend as planned. For instance, "I hope I can make it to the party on time." 3. To survive or endure a challenging situation: In some contexts, "make it" refers to surviving or enduring a difficult circumstance. For instance, "

Two wrongs do not make a right The idiom "Two wrongs do not make a right" means that it is not acceptable to respond to a wrongdoing or injustice by committing another wrongdoing or act of revenge. Just because someone has done something wrong or harmed you, it does not justify you doing the same in return. The idiom emphasizes the importance of seeking justice or resolving conflicts in a fair and moral manner, rather than engaging in a cycle of revenge or retaliation.

make yourself respectable The idiom "make yourself respectable" means to improve one's appearance, behavior, or circumstances in order to be perceived as respectable or to gain the respect of others. It often implies making necessary changes or putting in effort to present oneself in a more dignified or socially acceptable manner.

you can take a horse to water, but you can't make him drink The idiom "you can take a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" means that while you can provide someone with an opportunity or the necessary resources, you cannot force them to take advantage of it or to do something if they are unwilling or resistant.

make haste The idiom "make haste" means to hurry or move quickly. It implies a sense of urgency or the need to expedite a task or action.

make no difference (to someone) The idiom "make no difference (to someone)" means that a certain action or situation has no impact or significance on someone. It implies that the person is indifferent or unaffected by the given circumstances.

make a splash The idiom "make a splash" means to attract attention, create a notable impact or gain recognition in a dramatic or impressive way.

make an exception (for someone) The idiom "make an exception (for someone)" means to treat someone differently or bend the rules in their favor, usually when they do not meet the usual criteria or standards. It involves making a special allowance or granting special privileges to someone.

make free with The idiom "make free with" typically means to take or use something without asking permission, to act or speak in a way that shows a lack of respect for personal boundaries or property. It implies a sense of being presumptuous or disregarding the normal considerations and formalities.

make (oneself) known (to someone) The idiom "make (oneself) known (to someone)" means to introduce or present oneself to someone in order to establish communication or initiate a relationship. It refers to the act of ensuring that someone is aware of your existence or presence and indicates a desire for interaction or connection.

make short work of sth The idiom "make short work of something" means to complete or accomplish a task quickly and efficiently, often with ease or without much effort. It implies that the task was successfully completed in a relatively short amount of time, especially compared to what was expected or anticipated.

make mention of The idiom "make mention of" means to briefly refer to or bring up a particular person, idea, or thing in conversation or in written form. It implies acknowledging or acknowledging the existence or relevance of something or someone without going into great detail about it.

you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelette without breaking eggs" means that achieving a desired outcome often requires some sacrifices or negative consequences. In order to bring about progress or change, some difficulties or losses may be inevitable.

make it hot for The idiom "make it hot for" typically means to make things uncomfortable, difficult, or unpleasant for someone, often through deliberate actions or by creating challenging circumstances that cause them distress or trouble.

make ducks and drakes of The idiom "make ducks and drakes of" means to carelessly and frivolously squander or waste something, typically money or resources. It implies a reckless attitude towards handling valuable possessions or opportunities.

Never make a threat you cannot carry out The idiom "Never make a threat you cannot carry out" means that one should avoid making promises or issuing warnings that they are incapable of fulfilling or enforcing. It emphasizes the importance of only making commitments or expressing intentions that one has the ability or determination to fulfill, in order to maintain credibility and avoid losing respect or trust.

make (too) much of sm or sth The idiom "make (too) much of someone or something" means to exaggerate the importance or significance of someone or something. It refers to giving excessive attention, praise, or consideration to someone or something. It implies that the level of attention or importance being given is more than deserved or necessary.

make headway The idiom "make headway" means to make progress or advance in a particular situation, task, or endeavor. It implies gradual but noticeable forward movement towards achieving a goal or overcoming an obstacle.

make (a) nonsense of sth The idiomatic expression "make (a) nonsense of sth" means to render something absurd, illogical, or meaningless. It refers to the act of reducing the significance, rationality, or coherence of a particular thing or situation, often through actions, statements, or behavior that defy logic or common sense.

make somebodyâ€™s acquaintance The idiom "make somebodyâ€™s acquaintance" means to meet someone for the first time and become acquainted with them. It refers to the initial encounter and the act of getting to know someone.

raise (sb's) hackles, at make (sb's) hackles rise The idiom "raise (sb's) hackles" or "make (sb's) hackles rise" refers to causing someone to become angry, irritated, or defensive. It originates from the physical response of animals when their hair or fur stands on end, particularly at the back of their necks, as a defensive reaction to a perceived threat or danger. When someone's hackles are raised, it indicates that they are becoming extremely annoyed or provoked.

make a start on The idiom "make a start on" refers to beginning or initiating a task or activity. It means to take the first step or to begin the process of doing something.

make a fuss of (someone or something) The idiom "make a fuss of (someone or something)" means to pay an excessive amount of attention to someone or something, often showing affection, admiration, or special treatment. It involves giving extra care, attention, or lavish treatment to someone or something to express appreciation or affection.

make demands of sm or sth The idiom "make demands of someone or something" means to request or require that someone or something fulfill certain expectations or requirements. It implies a sense of entitlement or insistence in asking for or expecting specific actions, results, or behavior from a person or thing.

make a muck of sth The idiom "make a muck of something" means to handle or complete a task or situation very poorly or messily. It implies causing a mess, confusion, or disorder while attempting something.

Do I make myself (perfectly) clear? The idiom "Do I make myself (perfectly) clear?" is a rhetorical question used to seek confirmation or emphasize that the speaker wants their statement or instructions to be understood completely and without any confusion or ambiguity. It is often used to assert authority or to emphasize the importance of understanding and following what has been communicated.

make a run for it The idiom "make a run for it" means to attempt to escape or flee from a place or situation, often in a sudden or reckless manner, usually to avoid being caught, facing consequences, or to seize an opportunity for freedom.

make life difficult (for someone) The idiom "make life difficult (for someone)" means to intentionally create a challenging or burdensome situation for someone, often causing them unnecessary hardship, frustration, or inconvenience. It refers to the act of deliberately obstructing someone's progress, success, or happiness.

make a good fist of The idiom "make a good fist of" means to make a sincere and determined effort to do something well or to try one's best to achieve success. It implies giving one's utmost effort, competence, and dedication to a task or challenge.

make an exception (for sm) The idiom "make an exception (for someone)" means to deviate from a rule or normal practice for the benefit or special circumstances of a particular person. It refers to treating someone differently or allowing them to break a rule that would typically apply to others.

make overtures about doing The idiom "make overtures about doing" refers to making initial, indirect, or informal proposals or suggestions about doing something. It implies expressing interest or a willingness to engage in a particular action or activity.

make ground The idiom "make ground" means to gradually progress and gain an advantage or advance towards a goal, often in a competitive situation. It implies making steady and noticeable progress, typically in a strategic or calculated manner.

kiss and make up The idiom "kiss and make up" means to resolve a dispute or disagreement and return to being on good terms with someone. It suggests that both parties involved in the conflict should reconcile and make amends in order to restore harmony and friendly relations. The phrase is often used to encourage individuals to let go of their differences and move forward in a more positive and forgiving manner.

make a day etc. of it The idiom "make a day of it" or "make a [time period] of it" means to devote a significant amount of time and effort to an activity or event in order to fully enjoy or engage with it. It suggests that one is taking advantage of the opportunity to make the most out of the experience and create lasting memories.

make an impression on someone The idiom "make an impression on someone" means to leave a lasting or memorable impact on someone's thoughts, feelings, or opinion. It refers to the ability to influence or be remembered by someone after an interaction or experience.

make it hot for somebody The idiom "make it hot for somebody" means to make someone's situation difficult, uncomfortable, or unbearable, usually through trouble, harassment, or pressure.

make life difficult The idiom "make life difficult" means to create or cause problems, challenges, obstacles, or complications for someone in their daily life or a specific situation. It implies making things harder or more complicated than necessary, often deliberately or as a result of one's actions or behavior.

make someone's flesh crawl The idiom "make someone's flesh crawl" means to cause a strong feeling of disgust, fear, or revulsion in someone. It refers to something that is so unsettling or creepy that it gives a person a physical reaction, typically characterized by the feeling of one's skin or flesh tingling or having an uncomfortable sensation.

make a dash for sm or sth The idiom "make a dash for something" means to quickly run or move towards someone or something in a determined or hurried manner, often in an attempt to reach it before anyone else or to catch it before it's gone. It implies a sense of urgency or haste in one's movements.

make someone's hair stand on end The idiom "make someone's hair stand on end" means to cause someone to feel extremely frightened, horrified, or shocked. It implies that something is so disturbing or terrifying that it causes literal sensations, like the hair on one's body, to stand upright.

make a song and dance about sth The idiom "make a song and dance about something" means to exaggerate or make a fuss about a situation or issue, often overreacting or drawing unnecessary attention to it. It implies that someone is making more of an issue than it actually is, turning a simple matter into a dramatic performance.

make a believer (out) of someone The idiom "make a believer (out) of someone" means to cause someone to change their opinion or belief about something. It suggests that through a convincing or compelling experience, evidence, or argument, someone who was skeptical or doubtful becomes convinced or converted to believe in the truth or validity of something.

make a clean breast of something The idiom "make a clean breast of something" means to openly confess or reveal something that has been kept secret or hidden. It refers to being completely honest and forthcoming about a wrongdoing, mistake, or personal matter.

make sheep's eyes at The idiom "make sheep's eyes at" means to give someone a flirtatious or amorous look, often accompanied by subtle gestures or expressions of romantic interest. It implies making soft, affectionate, or longing gazes at someone, similar to the loving or admiring way sheep look at their shepherd. It can be used figuratively to indicate romantic or flirtatious intentions towards someone.

As you make your bed, so you must lie on it The idiom "As you make your bed, so you must lie on it" means that one must accept and face the consequences of their actions or decisions. It suggests that once you have made a choice or taken a certain course of action, you are responsible for dealing with the outcomes, whether they are positive or negative.

make something of yourself The idiom "make something of yourself" means to achieve success and establish a respectable position in life, often through hard work, talent, or determination. It implies personal growth, self-improvement, and becoming a person of accomplishment in a chosen field or endeavor.

make short work of something/somebody The idiom "make short work of something/somebody" means to finish or complete something or someone quickly and easily, often suggesting efficiency or mastery. It implies that the task or individual is dispatched or dealt with swiftly and without much effort.

make sb sit up and take notice The idiom "make sb sit up and take notice" means to catch someone's attention or make someone pay attention to something, often by doing or saying something unexpected or impressive.

make yourself scarce The idiom "make yourself scarce" means to intentionally remove oneself or disappear from a situation, often to avoid trouble, unwanted attention, or an awkward encounter.

make fair weather The idiom "make fair weather" typically means to pretend to be pleasant, cheerful, or friendly, especially when one's true feelings or intentions are negative or insincere. It implies putting on a faÃ§ade of agreeable behavior while hiding ulterior motives or discontent.

make a production (out) of The idiom "make a production (out) of" means to exaggerate or make a big fuss about something that is trivial or unimportant. Often used in a negative sense, it implies that someone is overreacting or dramatizing a situation excessively.

make allowance The idiom "make allowance" means to consider or accommodate certain factors or circumstances when making a judgment, decision, or evaluation. It refers to being lenient, understanding, or making concessions for someone or something. It implies taking into account certain allowances or exceptions instead of being strict or rigid in one's perspective or expectations.

make little of The idiom "make little of" means to underestimate, belittle, or downplay the significance, importance, or value of something or someone. It refers to treating or regarding something as less significant or impressive than it actually is.

make sm eat crow The idiom "make someone eat crow" refers to causing someone to admit they were wrong, embarrassed, or humiliated after confidently asserting or behaving in a way that turns out to be incorrect or misguided.

make a fuss The idiom "make a fuss" means to show excessive or unnecessary excitement, worry, or annoyance about something. It refers to the act of drawing attention to a situation or issue in a dramatic or exaggerated manner.

make great play of something The idiom "make great play of something" means to emphasize or make a big deal out of something, often in an exaggerated or showy manner. It refers to giving excessive attention, importance, or significance to a particular event, idea, or action.

make eyes at sb The idiom "make eyes at someone" refers to the act of giving someone flirtatious or seductive looks or expressions, often with the intention of attracting their attention or showing romantic interest.

make a bolt/dash for it/something The idiom "make a bolt/dash for it/something" means to suddenly run or move quickly towards a specific direction or goal, often in an attempt to escape from danger or seize an opportunity. It implies acting swiftly and without hesitation.

Don't make me say it again! The idiom "Don't make me say it again!" means that the speaker is becoming frustrated or impatient and does not want to have to repeat themselves. It implies that the person being addressed should pay attention and understand what is being said without requiring further repetition.

make a break for (someone or something) The idiom "make a break for (someone or something)" means to make a sudden and quick attempt to reach or escape from someone or something. It often implies a sense of urgency or desperation in the action taken.

make sth stick The idiom "make sth stick" means to ensure that something will be remembered or taken seriously, especially when faced with doubts, skepticism, or lack of belief. It implies making a statement, argument, or claim that is convincing, substantial, and lasting in its impact.

make (a) hash of The idiom "make (a) hash of" means to completely mess up or spoil something. It is often used to describe a situation where someone has performed a task or handled a situation so badly that it becomes a chaotic or disorganized mess.

It takes money to make money. The idiom "It takes money to make money" suggests that one needs to invest or spend an initial amount of money in order to start earning or generating profits. It implies that financial resources are necessary to initiate or expand a business, make investments, or pursue opportunities that can ultimately lead to wealth or financial success.

make an ass of The idiom "make an ass of" means to make a fool of oneself or someone else, often by behaving foolishly, making mistakes, or acting in an embarrassing or stupid manner.

set the fur flying, at make the fur fly The idiom "set the fur flying" or "make the fur fly" means to cause a disruptive or chaotic situation, to instigate a conflict or confrontation, or to provoke a vigorous and heated argument or fight. It generally refers to a situation where emotions or tensions escalate rapidly, leading to a chaotic or intense outcome.

make the best of a bad job The idiom "make the best of a bad job" means to accept a difficult or unsatisfactory situation and to try to make it as good as possible. It implies finding ways to cope or improve the situation despite its negative aspects.

make sb's flesh crawl/creep The idiom "make someone's flesh crawl/creep" means to cause an intense feeling of disgust, fear, or revulsion in someone. It describes a situation or someone's behavior that is extremely unsettling or gives a strong sense of unease.

make no claim The idiom "make no claim" typically refers to a situation where someone does not assert any entitlement or demand for something, whether it is a right, ownership, or recognition. It denotes explicitly or implicitly disavowing any sort of demand, pretense, or declaration of ownership or entitlement.

make the best of things The idiom "make the best of things" means to act or respond in the most positive or optimistic way in a situation that might be difficult or unfavorable. It implies making the most out of a challenging or less than ideal circumstance by finding ways to be content, adapting, or finding silver linings.

It takes two to make a quarrel. The definition for the idiom "It takes two to make a quarrel." is that conflicts or arguments usually require the participation or involvement of more than one person. It implies that to have a quarrel or disagreement, both parties involved must contribute or engage in the dispute. It emphasizes that disputes are not typically caused solely by one person, but rather by the mutual interactions and exchanges between two or more individuals.

make a man of The idiom "make a man of" means to help someone, usually a young boy or adolescent, become more mature, responsible, or capable in order to become a fully developed and independent adult. It suggests helping someone grow into a stronger, more confident person who is capable of facing challenges and taking on the responsibilities of adulthood.

make a mistake The idiom "make a mistake" refers to the action of committing an error, acting in an incorrect or unintended way, or making a wrong decision or judgment. It implies that someone has done something incorrectly or has failed to meet expectations.

make a face (at someone) The idiom "make a face (at someone)" refers to someone contorting their facial expressions or gestures in an exaggerated or negative manner to express dislike, disapproval, or mockery towards someone else. It usually involves distorting the features of the face, such as frowning, pulling funny expressions, sticking out the tongue, or rolling the eyes. This idiom is often used to convey silent, non-verbal criticism or derision towards someone.

make a laughingstock of The idiom "make a laughingstock of" means to cause someone or something to be ridiculed or made fun of, often by behaving foolishly, making embarrassing mistakes, or having a ridiculous appearance or behavior. It refers to the act of turning oneself or another into an object of mockery and amusement.

make a habit of (doing something) The idiom "make a habit of (doing something)" means to repeatedly do something so that it becomes a routine or a regular part of one's behavior.

make mincemeat (out) of sb/sth The idiom "make mincemeat (out) of someone/something" means to defeat or overpower them easily and thoroughly, often through physical force or by outwitting them. It implies complete dominance or victory over an opponent.

make (one's) voice heard The idiom "make one's voice heard" means to express one's opinions, ideas, or concerns in a way that ensures they are noticed and taken seriously by others. It implies actively participating in a conversation, discussion, or protest to influence or contribute to a decision or outcome.

make nothing of The idiom "make nothing of" means to consider something as unimportant or insignificant, to disregard or underestimate its value or significance. It implies that a person does not find something challenging or difficult and can easily handle or overcome it.

make faces The idiom "make faces" refers to contorting one's facial expressions in a humorous or exaggerated way to convey emotions such as disgust, amusement, or discomfort. It involves distorting one's features by twisting the mouth, scrunching up the nose, or bulging the eyes, typically done to entertain or express a reaction.

make much of The idiom "make much of" means to place a great amount of importance, attention, or significance on something or someone. It can refer to showing great affection, consideration, or enthusiasm towards someone or something, often through words, actions, or gestures.

make oneself miserable The idiom "make oneself miserable" refers to the act of intentionally or unintentionally engaging in behaviors or adopting attitudes and beliefs that lead to one's own unhappiness or distress. It implies a self-inflicted state of negativity, dissatisfaction, or sadness.

make a virtue of necessity To "make a virtue of necessity" means to accept or embrace a situation or condition that is unavoidable or undesirable and use it to one's advantage. It implies finding a positive perspective or making the best out of a challenging or difficult circumstance.

make your blood curdle The idiom "make your blood curdle" refers to something that is extremely horrifying, disturbing, or terrifying to the point where it causes strong feelings of fear, disgust, or revulsion.

make (one's) blood run cold The idiom "make (one's) blood run cold" means to cause extreme fear or horror. It describes a situation or action that is so terrifying or disturbing that it sends a shiver down one's spine or makes them feel chilled with fear.

make money hand over fist The idiom "make money hand over fist" means to earn or acquire a large amount of money quickly and continuously, often in a rapid or effortless manner.

make at home The definition of the idiom "make at home" refers to the act of feeling comfortable and familiar in a particular environment or situation, as if one were in their own home. It implies a sense of ease, relaxation, and familiarity.

make somebodyâ€™s toes curl The idiom "make somebody's toes curl" means to cause someone extreme discomfort, cringe-worthy embarrassment, or extreme disgust. It refers to the feeling of one's toes involuntarily curling in response to something unpleasant or cringe-inducing.

make something of (one's) life The idiom "make something of (one's) life" means to attain success, achievement, or fulfillment in one's personal or professional life. It refers to becoming a successful and accomplished individual, often by setting and pursuing goals, making progress, and fulfilling one's potential.

make heavy going of (something) The idiom "make heavy going of (something)" means to do something with great difficulty, struggle, or lack of progress. It suggests that the task or activity is challenging, tedious, or laborious, and progress is slow or hindered.

Good fences make good neighbors. The idiom "Good fences make good neighbors" means that maintaining boundaries and respecting each other's personal space or privacy can lead to peaceful and harmonious relationships between people.

make the most of The idiom "make the most of" means to utilize or take advantage of a situation or opportunity in the best possible way to achieve maximum benefit or enjoyment. It implies making the best use of the available resources, time, or circumstances to make a situation more favorable or successful.

Want to make sth of it? The idiom "Want to make something of it?" is often used as a confrontational question to imply a challenge or offer to engage in a dispute or conflict. It generally suggests a willingness to argue, fight, or compete with someone over a certain matter.

make a mental note The idiom "make a mental note" means to consciously remember or take note of something without writing it down. It involves mentally registering or acknowledging information for future reference.

make (something) seem like a picnic The idiom "make (something) seem like a picnic" means to portray or present a situation as being easy, enjoyable, or without difficulties, when in reality it is challenging, complex, or demanding. It suggests that someone is trying to downplay or minimize the true difficulty or hardship of a task or situation.

make blood boil The idiom "make blood boil" means to cause extreme anger or outrage in someone. It refers to a situation or action that provokes intense and uncontrollable anger.

make a fool (out) of sm The idiom "make a fool (out) of someone" means to cause someone to appear foolish, often by making them look ridiculous, absurd, or unintelligent in front of others. It implies that the person's actions, behavior, or words have led to their own embarrassment or humiliation.

make good The idiom "make good" means to fulfill a promise, to deliver on something promised or expected, to achieve success, or to redeem oneself.

make a point of doing sth The idiom "make a point of doing something" means to intentionally or deliberately make an effort to do something. It implies that the action being referred to is important and the person is determined to ensure it happens.

make book on The idiom "make book on" refers to making predictions or placing bets on a particular outcome or event. It implies that someone is confident or knowledgeable enough to wager or speculate on the result.

make something of (oneself) The idiom "make something of (oneself)" means to achieve success or recognition, usually by working hard and utilizing one's abilities and opportunities to become a successful and respectable person. It refers to transforming one's life or circumstances in a positive and noteworthy way.

know how many beans make five The idiom "know how many beans make five" is a humorous or sarcastic way of describing someone who is perceived as ignorant or unintelligent. It implies that the person lacks basic knowledge or is incapable of understanding simple concepts.

make heads roll The idiom "make heads roll" means to take severe action or punishment against those responsible for a mistake, wrongdoing, or failure, often by firing or dismissing them from their positions. It implies holding someone accountable and usually demanding significant consequences or repercussions for their actions.

one swallow does not make a spring The idiom "one swallow does not make a spring" means that one instance or event is not enough evidence to draw a generalized conclusion or make a sweeping judgment. It suggests that isolated incidents or individual occurrences should not be considered as representative of a larger pattern or trend. In essence, this idiom reminds us to avoid generalizing from limited or single examples and to seek broader and more consistent evidence before forming conclusions.

make yourself understood The idiom "make yourself understood" means to express oneself clearly and effectively in order to communicate thoughts, ideas, or intentions to others in a way that they can comprehend or grasp easily. It implies the act of ensuring that one's message or point is conveyed accurately and unambiguously, avoiding any confusion or misinterpretation.

hard cases make bad laws The idiom "hard cases make bad laws" is used to convey that extraordinary or unusual circumstances can lead to the creation of laws that are ineffective or unfair when applied to more typical situations. It suggests that when laws are crafted in response to unique and extreme cases, they may not adequately consider the broader context or account for potential unintended consequences.

make arrangements for someone The idiom "make arrangements for someone" means to organize or plan something on behalf of another person. It involves taking care of the necessary preparations or details to ensure that the person's needs or desires are fulfilled. It can include tasks such as scheduling, booking, or coordinating various aspects for their benefit or convenience.

make somebodyâ€™s hair stand on end The idiom "make somebody's hair stand on end" means to frighten or horrify someone to such an extent that their hair stands up straight due to intense fear or shock. This expression is often used to describe something exceptionally alarming or terrifying.

make feel small The idiom "make feel small" means to intentionally or unintentionally make someone feel inferior, insignificant, or belittled. It refers to actions or words that diminish a person's self-esteem or confidence.

make heads or tails of The idiom "make heads or tails of" means to understand, interpret, or figure out something that is confusing, chaotic, or disorganized. It implies that the situation or information is so unclear or jumbled that it is difficult to make any sense of it.

make a fast/quick buck The idiom "make a fast/quick buck" means to earn money quickly or easily, usually by taking advantage of a situation or exploiting someone or something, often without regard for moral considerations or the long-term consequences.

make a deal with The idiom "make a deal with" means to negotiate or enter into an agreement or contract with someone. It typically involves discussing terms, bargaining, and eventually reaching an agreement or compromise on a particular matter.

make allowances (for somebody) The idiom "make allowances (for somebody)" means to be tolerant, understanding, or forgiving of someone's mistakes, shortcomings, or peculiarities. It involves giving someone special consideration or leniency in order to accommodate their needs or circumstances.

make buckle and tongue meet The idiom "make buckle and tongue meet" means to have enough money to cover one's expenses or to make ends meet.

make a point of someone or something The idiom "make a point of someone or something" means to give special attention or emphasize someone or something. It implies putting effort or taking deliberate action to ensure that someone or something is noticed, recognized, or given importance.

make a dent in The idiom "make a dent in" means to make progress or achieve a measurable impact on a task, problem, or activity. It implies making a notable or significant contribution towards a particular goal or objective.

make the best of something/things/a bad job The idiom "make the best of something/things/a bad job" means to accept and deal with a difficult or undesirable situation in the most positive and constructive way possible. It implies making the most out of limited or unfavorable circumstances and finding ways to improve or enjoy the situation despite its drawbacks.

make love (to somebody) The idiom "make love (to somebody)" refers to engaging in sexual intercourse or engaging in intimate and affectionate acts with another person.

make an offer The idiom "make an offer" refers to the act of proposing or suggesting a deal or proposition to someone, often related to buying or selling goods or services. It implies putting forth a specific proposition or price for consideration or negotiation.

make blood run cold The idiom "make blood run cold" means to cause extreme fear, horror, or terror in someone. It describes a situation or event so shocking or horrifying that it generates an intense physical and emotional reaction, causing one's blood to feel cold.

make the rounds "Make the rounds" is an idiom that means to visit or go around to various places or people, typically in a regular or systematic manner. It can also refer to the act of circulating or spreading widely, such as news or rumors.

make a mental note of sth The idiom "make a mental note of something" means to intentionally remember or take note of information without writing it down or otherwise recording it. It implies that the person is consciously committing the information to memory for future recall or reference.

make common cause with somebody The idiom "make common cause with somebody" means to join forces or cooperate with someone who shares the same goals, beliefs, or interests. It implies forming an alliance or partnership in order to work towards a common objective.

make arrangements (with sm) (for sth) The idiom "make arrangements (with someone) (for something)" means to organize or plan specific details or actions for a particular event, situation, or task in collaboration with someone else. It suggests that two or more parties are working together to establish a plan or agreement regarding a specific matter.

make a long arm for (something) The idiom "make a long arm for (something)" typically means to reach out or make an effort to obtain something that is out of one's immediate reach or not easily accessible. It implies making a concerted attempt to achieve a goal or acquire something desired, often requiring extra effort or going beyond one's usual capabilities.

make a case for (something) The idiom "make a case for (something)" means to present arguments or evidence in support of a particular opinion, decision, or action. It involves providing convincing reasons or justifications to persuade others to agree with or consider your point of view.

make to order The idiom "make to order" refers to a manufacturing or production process where goods or products are specifically made according to a customer's specifications or requests. It signifies that the item is not pre-made or readily available, but rather created upon a customer's order. This approach allows for customization and personalization of the product to meet individual needs and preferences.

make so bold as The idiom "make so bold as" typically means to dare or have the audacity to do something. It often implies acting with confidence or without hesitation, even in the face of potential challenge or disapproval.

able to make an event The idiom "able to make an event" typically means being available or having the ability to attend or participate in a specific event or occasion. It suggests one's willingness and capability to be present and actively involved in the event.

make (one's) presence felt The idiom "make (one's) presence felt" means to create a strong impact or to assert one's authority or influence in a situation or group. It implies that someone is making themselves noticed or acknowledged in a way that leaves no doubt about their presence or influence.

make someone eat crow The idiom "make someone eat crow" means to force or compel someone to admit they were wrong or to humiliate them after they have been proven to be mistaken or have made a false claim.

make a note of sth The idiom "make a note of something" means to write down or record something for future reference or remembrance. It refers to the act of jotting down important information so that it can be easily recalled or remembered later.

make friends with sm The idiom "make friends with someone" means to establish a friendly or amicable relationship with an individual. It implies initiating contact, developing rapport, and cultivating a bond of friendship with that person.

make good your escape The idiom "make good your escape" means to successfully escape from a dangerous or difficult situation. It suggests creating a plan or taking necessary actions to ensure a successful getaway or avoidance of harm.

make your bow The idiom "make your bow" typically means to take a final or farewell leave, implying the end of a performance, event, or endeavor. It originates from the ceremonial bow made by performers at the end of a theatrical or musical presentation.

make a stink (about something) The idiom "make a stink (about something)" means to protest or complain loudly and aggressively about something, especially in an excessive or exaggerated manner. It implies making a big fuss or causing a disturbance to highlight a grievance or issue.

make an honest woman of somebody The idiom "make an honest woman of somebody" refers to the act of marrying a woman, often used when referring to a man marrying his long-term partner or girlfriend. It implies that the marriage formalizes the relationship and legitimizes it in society's eyes.

make your mind up, at make up your mind The idiom "make your mind up" or "make up your mind" means to reach a decision or to settle on a choice. It implies the need to finalize one's thoughts or preferences, often when faced with multiple alternatives or indecision.

make (or be) friends with The idiom "make (or be) friends with" refers to the act of establishing a friendly relationship with someone or building a positive rapport with them. It implies the development of a connection, trust, and companionship between individuals.

make it with somebody The idiom "make it with somebody" typically means to engage in sexual activity or have an intimate relationship with someone. It implies a romantic or sexual connection with another person.

make clear to The idiom "make clear to" means to explain or clarify something to someone thoroughly so that they fully understand it. It involves ensuring that information or instructions are communicated in a way that leaves no room for confusion or misunderstanding.

Empty vessels make (the) most noise/sound. The idiom "Empty vessels make (the) most noise/sound" means that the people who talk or boast the most are usually the ones who have the least worth or knowledge. It implies that those who are knowledgeable or skilled do not feel the need to show off because their abilities speak for themselves.

make fast work of (someone or something) The idiom "make fast work of (someone or something)" means to easily and quickly defeat, complete, or surpass someone or something. It implies that the action was executed swiftly and efficiently, leaving no room for delay or resistance.

make no bones about The idiom "make no bones about" means to be candid, honest, or straightforward about something, making no attempt to hide or disguise it. It implies expressing or stating something clearly without any qualms or reservations.

make tracks (for sth) The idiom "make tracks (for sth)" means to leave or depart quickly and suddenly, usually with a sense of urgency or haste. It can imply a desire to get away from a particular situation or location.

make love The idiom "make love" commonly refers to engaging in sexual intercourse or intimacy with a romantic partner.

make a practice of doing sth The idiom "make a practice of doing something" means to regularly or habitually engage in a particular action or behavior. It implies that the action or behavior has become a consistent or customary part of one's routine or approach to something.

make heavy weather of (something) The idiom "make heavy weather of (something)" means to approach or deal with a situation in an unnecessarily difficult or complicated manner, often resulting in making the task or situation more challenging than it actually is. It implies making an excessive effort or creating unnecessary obstacles instead of handling the matter in a straightforward or efficient way.

make/take soundings The idiom "make/take soundings" refers to the process of gathering or seeking out information or opinions on a particular matter, usually through discussions, surveys, or other means. It implies a comprehensive and thorough assessment or investigation before making a decision or forming a conclusion.

make to do sth The idiom "make to do something" typically means to prepare oneself or put in the effort to undertake a particular action or task. It implies taking initiative and being proactive in completing a specific action or achieving a goal.

make (it) good The idiom "make (it) good" typically means to rectify a situation, fulfill a promise, or correct a mistake in order to achieve a satisfactory outcome.

make a false step The idiom "make a false step" refers to making a mistake or committing an error, often resulting in negative consequences or setbacks. It implies that one has taken an incorrect or ill-advised action, leading to a misstep in their progress, plans, or overall situation.

make a silk purse out of a sow's ear The idiom "make a silk purse out of a sow's ear" is used to describe the act of transforming or improving something of low quality or value into something more valuable or desirable. It implies the effort to make the best out of a bad situation or turning a mediocre thing into something exceptional.

make certain of something The idiom "make certain of something" means to ensure absolute assurance or confirmation about a particular thing or outcome. It implies taking necessary actions or precautions to guarantee that something is accurate, true, or secure.

make somebodyâ€™s hackles rise The idiom "make somebodyâ€™s hackles rise" means to provoke or irritate someone, causing them to become angry, defensive, or annoyed. The phrase "hackles rise" refers to the hair on the back of an animal's neck standing up in response to feeling threatened or agitated. Therefore, when someone's hackles rise, it implies that they are experiencing a strong negative emotional reaction.

make use of sm or sth The idiom "make use of someone or something" means to utilize or take advantage of someone or something in a practical or beneficial way. It implies using someone's abilities, skills, resources, or objects to achieve a specific purpose or solution.

make a good fist of (something) The idiom "make a good fist of (something)" means to try one's best and put in a sincere effort in doing or accomplishing something, often implying that the task at hand may be challenging or difficult. It signifies the determination and skill employed to tackle a task effectively and achieve a favorable outcome.

can't make head or/nor tail of something The idiom "can't make head or/nor tail of something" means that someone is unable to understand, comprehend, or make sense of something. It implies confusion or a lack of clarity about a particular situation, statement, or information.

make a (big) stink (about sm or sth) The idiom "make a (big) stink (about sm or sth)" means to make a big fuss or create a lot of noise and commotion about something. It refers to acting or speaking in a loud and persistent manner, usually in protest or to draw attention and demand action or change.

make like someone/something The idiom "make like someone/something" means to imitate or pretend to be someone or something. It is often used when someone copies the behavior, actions, or characteristics of another person or thing.

make the cut The idiom "make the cut" refers to meeting a standard or qualification, often to be selected or included in a particular group, event, or opportunity. It implies being successful in a competitive situation or surpassing a minimum requirement.

make an impression on sb The idiom "make an impression on someone" means to leave a lasting, memorable impact or influence on someone's mind or opinion. It refers to creating a significant memory or gaining their attention and admiration, thus affecting how they perceive or remember you or a particular event.

make love to sb The idiom "make love to sb" is a euphemism for engaging in sexual intercourse or expressing one's romantic and intimate desires towards another person. It implies a physical and emotional connection with someone on a romantic and sexual level.

make one's hair stand on end The idiom "make one's hair stand on end" is an expression used to describe a feeling of extreme fear, horror, or shock that causes one's hair to stand up on their scalp. It suggests a strong reaction to something alarming or unsettling.

make a friend The idiom "make a friend" refers to the act of establishing a new relationship or friendship with someone. It implies the effort to form a connection and create a bond with another person, often through shared interests, common experiences, or mutual appreciation.

make light of something The idiom "make light of something" means to downplay or treat something as unimportant or trivial, often by minimizing its significance or severity. It refers to not taking a matter seriously or making it seem less serious than it actually is.

make great, much, etc. play of/with something The idiom "make great, much, etc. play of/with something" means to exaggerate or highlight something for amusement or entertainment purposes. It implies that someone is emphasizing or focusing excessively on a subject or situation to create amusement or to make it more enjoyable.

make a mockery of sth To "make a mockery of something" means to treat it with disrespect or ridicule, typically by intentionally trivializing or belittling it. It implies that someone or something is making a joke or a farce out of a serious or important matter.

make heavy weather of sth The idiom "make heavy weather of something" means to find a task or situation more difficult, complicated, or time-consuming than necessary. It implies struggling or making excessive effort when a simpler approach could have been taken.

make someone's day The idiom "make someone's day" means to do something that brings immense joy, happiness, or satisfaction to someone, thereby significantly enhancing their overall mood and leaving a positive impact.

make a stab at (something) The idiom "make a stab at (something)" means to make an attempt or try to do something, even if it may not result in success or be done with expertise. It implies giving something a go or making an effort, often without a guarantee of achieving the desired outcome.

make (both) ends meet The idiom "make (both) ends meet" means to have enough money to cover one's expenses and financial obligations, typically when facing financial difficulties or limited resources. It implies finding ways to manage one's income and expenses in order to make financial ends meet or meet both ends successfully.

make an issue of/out of something The idiomatic expression "make an issue of/out of something" means to excessively or unnecessarily emphasize, amplify, or draw attention to a particular matter or problem, often causing unnecessary conflict or disagreement about it. It refers to someone making a situation more significant, problematic, or controversial than it needs to be by creating or highlighting issues where none truly exist.

make your hair curl The idiom "make your hair curl" is used to describe something or someone that is extremely shocking, frightening, or disturbing. It suggests that an event or situation is so intense that it causes one's hair to stand on end or feel a shiver down their spine. It conveys a strong sense of unease or terror.

make a face (at sb/sth) The idiom "make a face (at sb/sth)" refers to the act of distorting one's facial expression in order to communicate a feeling or emotion, such as disapproval, disgust, or amusement, often done in a playful or mocking manner.

make a quick buck The idiom "make a quick buck" means to earn money quickly and easily, often through dishonest or opportunistic means, without much effort or long-term planning. It implies prioritizing immediate financial gain over ethical considerations or sustainable earning strategies.

make someone's flesh creep The idiom "make someone's flesh creep" means to cause someone to feel intense fear, disgust, or unease to the point where it gives them a physical sensation, as if their skin is crawling or experiencing a chilling effect.

clothes don't make the man The idiom "clothes don't make the man" means that one's character, abilities, or worth should not be judged solely based on their appearance or the clothes they wear. It emphasizes the idea that external appearances can be misleading and that true judgment should be based on one's actions and qualities rather than superficial factors.

It takes two to make a bargain. The idiom "It takes two to make a bargain" means that both parties involved need to be willing to cooperate, negotiate, or make compromises in order to reach an agreement or come to a mutually beneficial deal. It highlights the importance of mutual effort and understanding in the process of making a successful arrangement.

make heavy weather of something/of doing something To "make heavy weather of something" or "make heavy weather of doing something" means to overly complicate or exaggerate the difficulty of a task or situation. It implies that someone is taking longer than necessary or making things harder than they need to be, often due to excessive worry, indecisiveness, or inefficiency. This idiom suggests that the person is making a small problem seem bigger or more challenging than it actually is.

make (something) up as (one) goes (along) The idiom "make (something) up as (one) goes (along)" means to improvise or create something spontaneously without a pre-determined plan or preparation. It refers to the act of figuring out or deciding on something while it is happening or taking place, relying on one's own ingenuity or judgement in the moment.

make up out of whole cloth The idiom "make up out of whole cloth" means to invent or fabricate a story, idea, or information entirely from scratch, without any basis in truth or prior existence. It refers to the act of creating something imaginary or fictional, as if it were a brand new piece of cloth without any previous material.

make a hash of (something) The idiom "make a hash of (something)" means to do something very badly or to mess up a situation or task. It implies that the outcome is chaotic, disorganized, and generally ineffective.

(I'm) delighted to make your acquaintance. The phrase "(I'm) delighted to make your acquaintance" is an expression used to express genuine pleasure or happiness in meeting someone for the first time. It indicates a positive and friendly attitude towards the person being addressed, usually in a formal or polite context.

make a date The idiom "make a date" refers to arranging or setting up a specific time and place to meet or have an appointment with someone, typically for a social or romantic purpose.

make much/a lot of sb The idiom "make much/a lot of sb" means to hold someone in high regard, show admiration or give them a lot of attention and praise. It suggests that someone highly values or appreciates the qualities or achievements of another person.

make bold The idiom "make bold" means to act or speak in a confident and fearless manner, often with a sense of assertiveness or taking risks. It refers to exhibiting bravery or courage by stepping outside one's comfort zone and displaying a bold attitude.

make rounds The idiom "make rounds" typically refers to the act of visiting or checking on a number of different places or people in succession, often in a prescribed order. It can also be used when someone regularly visits or checks on a specific location or group of individuals, such as a doctor making rounds to see patients in a hospital.

make a case for sth The idiom "make a case for something" typically means to present arguments or evidence in support of a particular point of view or position. It refers to the act of providing reasons or justifications to persuade others or convince them of the validity or importance of something.

make much of something/somebody To "make much of something/somebody" means to pay a lot of attention to, show great importance to, or give a lot of praise or significance to someone or something. It implies treating or valuing someone or something highly and showing special consideration or admiration towards them.

make a getaway The idiom "make a getaway" refers to the act of escaping or leaving a place quickly, especially after committing a crime or avoiding trouble. It implies fleeing from a situation or location in order to avoid capture, punishment, or other negative consequences.

make an ass of yourself The idiom "make an ass of yourself" refers to behaving in a foolish or embarrassing manner, often resulting in someone appearing ridiculous or unwise in the eyes of others. It implies that a person's actions or words have exposed their lack of judgment, dignity, or social grace.

have/make a stab at sth The idiom "have/make a stab at sth" means to try or attempt something, often without much confidence or expertise. It implies making an effort or taking a shot at a task or problem, even if the outcome is uncertain.

make a federal case out of The idiom "make a federal case out of" means to make a situation more serious or complicated than necessary; to overreact, escalate, or exaggerate an issue or problem. It implies giving undue importance or attention to a matter, similar to the intricacies and complexity associated with a legal case brought before a federal court.

make a good fist of sth/doing sth The idiom "make a good fist of sth/doing sth" means to make a sincere and determined effort to accomplish something, often in the face of challenges or adversity. It suggests giving your best and trying to achieve a favorable outcome despite the difficulties that may arise.

make somebody's blood boil To make somebody's blood boil means to greatly anger, irritate, or provoke someone, causing intense feelings of anger or indignation.

make heads or tails (out) of (someone or something) To "make heads or tails (out) of (someone or something)" means to try and understand someone or something that is confusing, unclear, or puzzling. It implies difficulty in comprehending or deciphering the meaning or intentions of a person or situation.

make good on (something) The idiom "make good on (something)" means to fulfill or follow through on a promise, commitment, or obligation. It refers to taking necessary actions to deliver or perform what was previously pledged or assured.

make an example of The idiom "make an example of" means to punish someone severely as a warning to others, in order to deter or discourage similar behavior. It involves using someone's punishment as a demonstration or illustration of what will happen to those who engage in the same actions.

Empty vessels make the most sound. The idiom "Empty vessels make the most sound" means that people who lack knowledge or wisdom often talk the most or make the most noise. It suggests that those who have less substance or intelligence tend to be more vocal or boastful to compensate for their lack of substance.

make arrangements (with someone) (for something) The idiom "make arrangements (with someone) (for something)" means to plan or organize a particular event, task, or agreement with another person. It typically involves discussing details, setting parameters, and reaching an agreement on various aspects of the arrangement.

make an appearance The idiom "make an appearance" means to attend or show up at a particular event or location, often for a short period of time. It can also imply being present or being seen in a public setting, regardless of the context.

make (one's) blood boil The idiom "make (one's) blood boil" means to cause intense anger or outrage in someone. It refers to a situation or action that provokes strong feelings of anger or fury, akin to the sensation of blood heating up and surging in one's veins.

make inroads into The definition of the idiom "make inroads into" is to gradually establish influence, gain acceptance, or achieve progress in a particular area or field. It implies making successful advancements or penetrating into an unfamiliar territory, often with the intention of making a significant impact.

make oneself scarce The idiom "make oneself scarce" means to deliberately and quickly remove oneself from a situation or place in order to avoid trouble, confrontation, or to simply disappear unnoticed. It implies the act of intentionally becoming unavailable or out of sight.

make it (to the top) The idiom "make it (to the top)" means to achieve great success or reach a high position in one's career or field of endeavor. It implies achieving a level of accomplishment, recognition, or influence that is considered prestigious or significant.

make fun of The idiom "make fun of" means to mock, ridicule, or joke about someone or something in a teasing or derisive manner.

make it one's business The idiom "make it one's business" means to take a strong personal interest in something or actively involve oneself in a matter or situation, even if it does not directly concern or affect oneself. It implies a sense of responsibility or ownership over the issue or task at hand.

It donâ€™t make no nevermind The idiom "it don't make no nevermind" is a colloquial expression that originated in US English. It essentially means that something is of no consequence or doesn't matter at all. It is often used to emphasize that a particular decision or situation has no significant impact or importance.

make an issue (out) of To "make an issue (out) of" means to excessively or unnecessarily emphasize or draw attention to a particular matter, often causing it to become a problem or dispute. It refers to the act of creating a big deal or controversy over something that may not be significant or deserving of such attention.

make a dog's breakfast (of something) The idiom "make a dog's breakfast (of something)" means to do something or handle a task very badly or in a disorganized manner, resulting in a messy or chaotic outcome. It implies a lack of skill, care, or efficiency in carrying out a specific action.

make great strides The idiom "make great strides" refers to making significant or remarkable progress or improvements in a particular area or task. It implies moving forward rapidly and achieving noteworthy success.

make things hot for (someone) The idiom "make things hot for (someone)" means to create trouble, difficulties, or challenging situations for someone. It suggests that the person's actions or behavior will result in negative consequences or intense pressure being exerted upon them.

make a difference to someone The idiom "make a difference to someone" means to have a positive impact or influence on someone's life or situation. It implies that one's actions or contributions can bring about a noticeable or meaningful change, often in a beneficial way.

make a mess of sth The idiom "make a mess of something" means to do something in a careless, disorganized, or inefficient manner, resulting in a chaotic or undesirable outcome. It implies that the person involved has failed to handle a situation or task properly, creating confusion or disorder.

If you don't make mistakes, you don't make anything The idiom "If you don't make mistakes, you don't make anything" means that making mistakes is an inherent part of learning, growing, and creating something of value. It emphasizes the importance of taking risks and learning from failures in order to achieve success or accomplish goals. Without embracing mistakes and learning from them, one may remain stagnant and unable to make progress or achieve anything significant.

make a play for The idiom "make a play for" typically means to make a deliberate or strategic attempt to attract someone's romantic interest or to pursue a romantic relationship with them. It can also be used more broadly to describe making an effort to acquire or attain something desired, often in a determined or ambitious manner.

make a reservation The idiom "make a reservation" means to book or reserve something in advance, typically referring to reserving a table at a restaurant, a seat on a flight or train, a hotel room, or any similar arrangement where advance booking is required.

make (one) feel small The idiom "make (one) feel small" is used to describe the act of belittling or demeaning someone, often intentionally, in a way that undermines their confidence, self-esteem, or importance. It suggests that the person's actions or words have left the individual feeling insignificant, inadequate, or humiliated.

make a martyr of yourself The idiom "make a martyr of yourself" refers to the act of exaggerating or drawing attention to one's own suffering or sacrifices in order to gain sympathy or support. It implies that an individual intentionally portrays themselves as a victim or martyr for personal reasons, often in an attempt to manipulate others or be seen as heroic or selfless.

make a better, good, poor, etc. fist of something The idiom "make a better, good, poor, etc. fist of something" means to do a task or perform an activity with varying degrees of success or competence. It implies that the result or effort put into the task can range from excellent or proficient (make a better/good fist) to inadequate or unsatisfactory (make a poor fist). It is often used to describe someone's ability or approach in handling a specific situation or task.

you can't make an omelet without breaking (a few) eggs The idiom "you can't make an omelet without breaking (a few) eggs" means that in order to achieve something positive or desirable, there may be unavoidable negative consequences or sacrifices along the way. It acknowledges that progress or success often requires taking risks or causing some degree of inconvenience or harm.

make a crack To "make a crack" means to make a witty or humorous remark, usually in a light-hearted or playful manner. It refers to making a funny or clever comment as a way to bring humor to a situation or to entertain others.

make odd bedfellows The idiom "make odd bedfellows" refers to a situation or partnership where two or more people or entities who are normally incompatible or unlikely to be associated with each other come together or cooperate for a specific purpose. It implies the formation of an unusual or unexpected alliance.

make the worst of The idiom "make the worst of" means to focus on or emphasize the negative aspects of a situation, or to handle or perceive something in the most negative or unfavorable manner possible. It refers to the tendency to view things in a pessimistic or unfavorable way instead of seeking more positive alternatives or perspectives.

make a drama out of To "make a drama out of" something means to overly exaggerate or make a big fuss about a situation or issue that is not significant enough to warrant such attention. It implies that someone is overreacting or being excessively dramatic, amplifying the importance or severity of a situation.

make great, rapid, etc. strides The idiom "make great, rapid, etc. strides" means to make significant progress or advancements in a particular field or endeavor at a fast pace. It suggests that someone is achieving their goals or milestones quickly and effectively.

make a big thing of The idiom "make a big thing of" means to excessively emphasize or exaggerate something, usually a minor issue or event, making it appear more significant or significant than it actually is. It often involves highlighting or drawing unnecessary attention to something to create a sense of importance or drama.

make sheep's eyes at someone The idiom "make sheep's eyes at someone" means to give someone a look of affection, attraction, or longing, often characterized by gazing with soft, adoring eyes. It implies a flirtatious or amorous intent in the way one looks at another person.

make life miserable for The idiom "make life miserable for" means to consistently cause trouble, hardship, or unhappiness for someone. It refers to the act of intentionally creating difficult or unpleasant circumstances that negatively impact someone's life or well-being.

make a laughingstock of (oneself or sth) To make a laughingstock of oneself or something means to behave or perform in such a way that it becomes a source of ridicule or mockery. It refers to an action or behavior that is seen as foolish, embarrassing, or comical, resulting in others laughing at or making fun of the person or thing involved.

make a play for sth The idiom "make a play for sth" means to make an attempt or effort to acquire or achieve something, especially in a romantic or competitive context. It implies taking action or pursuing something with the intention of gaining an advantage or seizing an opportunity.

make it a rule The idiom "make it a rule" means to establish a specific guideline, principle, or standard that must be followed consistently. It implies setting a formal or informal rule that is expected to be obeyed in a particular situation or context.

make a clean break (from/with someone or something) The idiom "make a clean break (from/with someone or something)" means to completely sever ties or relationships with someone or something, leaving no lingering feelings or attachments. It often refers to ending a romantic relationship or leaving a job or situation decisively and without any future involvement. Making a clean break signifies a strong desire to start fresh and begin anew, usually by distancing oneself from past connections and starting with a clean slate.

make a bed The idiom "make a bed" refers to the act of creating a situation or condition that one must now deal with or take responsibility for. It signifies the consequences of one's actions or choices, which can often be difficult to reverse or escape from.

make (someone's) jaw drop The idiom "make (someone's) jaw drop" means to astonish or surprise someone to the extent that their mouth remains wide open due to astonishment or disbelief. It suggests a moment of amazement or shock that causes someone's jaw to literally drop.

one swallow does not a spring make The idiom "one swallow does not a spring make" means that one piece of evidence or occurrence is not sufficient to conclude that a certain situation or outcome has occurred or will occur. It implies that it is important to consider multiple indicators or examples before drawing a conclusive judgment.

make an honest woman of The idiom "make an honest woman of" refers to the act of marrying or formalizing a committed relationship with a woman, especially when she is pregnant or engaged in a relationship considered morally questionable by societal standards. It implies the intention to provide legitimacy and respectability to the woman and the relationship.

are/make a hit with The idiom "are/make a hit with" means to be successful or popular with someone, or to impress and gain their favor or admiration.

make (the) baby Jesus cry The idiom "make (the) baby Jesus cry" is a colloquial expression used to emphasize extreme sorrow, distress, or disappointment. It suggests that something or someone is so terrible, offensive, or heartbreaking that even the purest and most innocent individuals, like the baby Jesus, would be moved to tears. The idiom is often used humorously or sarcastically to exaggerate the negative impact of a situation or action.

make bail The idiom "make bail" refers to the act of providing the necessary amount of money or collateral to secure one's release from jail while awaiting trial or legal proceedings.

make common cause against (someone or something) The idiom "make common cause against (someone or something)" means to form an alliance or work together with someone or a group of people in order to oppose or confront a particular person, entity, or issue. It implies joining forces for a shared goal or purpose, usually due to a common enemy or problem.

make a pitch (for sm or sth) The idiom "make a pitch (for someone or something)" means to make a persuasive argument or presentation in support of someone or something, typically in an attempt to convince others to support or invest in it. It is often used in the context of sales or advertising, where individuals or companies make a formal presentation to promote their product or idea.

make a point of sm or sth The idiom "make a point of (doing) something" means to ensure or purposely take the effort to do something. It suggests that someone has a specific intention or determination to carry out a particular action.

make way (for sm or sth) The idiom "make way (for someone or something)" means to create space or allow someone or something to pass through. It often signifies giving priority to someone or something over others.

make it business to The idiom "make it one's business to" means to consciously or deliberately prioritize or devote oneself to a particular task, responsibility, or goal, often with a strong sense of determination or commitment. It implies taking personal interest in, making an effort, and considering it essential to attend to something.

you can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear The idiom "you can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear" means that it is impossible to turn something of low quality or little value into something of high quality or great value. It suggests that certain things, like a sow's ear (the ear of a pig), are inherently incapable of being transformed into something exquisite or superior, such as a silk purse. Thus, the idiom is used to convey the idea that one cannot enhance or improve something fundamentally unimpressive or lacking in potential.

make no bones about something/about doing something The idiom "make no bones about something/about doing something" means to express something openly and without hesitation or reservation. It refers to being straightforward, clear, or unambiguous about a particular matter or action. It implies that there is no attempt to sugarcoat or conceal the truth, intentions, or feelings regarding a situation.

make hay while the sun shines The idiom "make hay while the sun shines" means to take advantage of an opportunity or make the most of favorable conditions while they are present or available. It suggests the need to act promptly or seize the moment to achieve maximum benefit or success before circumstances change or become less favorable.

make demands of someone or something The idiom "make demands of someone or something" refers to the act of requesting or expecting someone or something to fulfill certain requirements or expectations. It implies exerting pressure or asking for specific actions or outcomes from another person or entity.

make (one's)/the hair stand up on the back of (one's) neck The idiom "make (one's)/the hair stand up on the back of (one's) neck" refers to a feeling of extreme fear, anxiety, or intense excitement that causes the hairs on the back of one's neck to rise or bristle. It is often used to describe a spine-chilling or extremely eerie experience that evokes a strong emotional reaction.

make skin crawl The idiom "make someone's skin crawl" means to cause a feeling of extreme discomfort, unease, or revulsion in someone. It suggests that something is so creepy, disturbing, or unsettling that it creates a physical sensation of one's skin crawling.

make sth/it worth your while The idiom "make something/it worth your while" means to make something or an action worthwhile or rewarding for someone. It implies that the person should receive enough benefit or advantage to justify their time, effort, or participation in a particular endeavor.

Make no bones about it The idiom "Make no bones about it" means to be straightforward, direct, or frank about something, without any hesitation or reservation. It implies speaking or acting honestly without concealment or ambiguity.

make (funny) faces The idiom "make (funny) faces" refers to contorting one's facial expressions in a comical or humorous way. It means to intentionally make exaggerated or silly expressions with one's face, usually for entertainment purposes or to evoke amusement in others.

can't make head nor tail of The idiom "can't make head nor tail of" refers to not being able to understand or comprehend something. It implies that the information or situation is confusing, unclear, or incomprehensible, making it impossible to make any sense out of it.

make up lost ground The idiom "make up lost ground" means to regain lost progress, catch up, or recover from a setback or disadvantage in a particular situation or endeavor. It implies making extra efforts or taking actions to compensate for the lost time, opportunity, or advantage.

make an honest woman (out) of (someone) The idiom "make an honest woman (out) of (someone)" means to marry a woman, especially if she was previously seen as being in a morally questionable situation, such as living together or having a child out of wedlock. It implies that through marriage, the woman's integrity and reputation are being restored or considered legitimate.

make somebodyâ€™s day The phrase "make somebody's day" is an idiom that means to do something kind or thoughtful that brings great joy or happiness to someone. It implies the act of providing a significant positive impact on another person's emotional state or overall well-being.

be on the move, at make a move The phrase "be on the move" typically means to be active, busy, or constantly in motion. It implies a state of not staying in one place for too long and being engaged in various activities or tasks. The idiom "make a move" typically refers to taking action or initiating a change in a situation, often with a specific goal in mind. It can be used in various contexts, such as making a strategic move in a game, making a decision, or making progress in a personal or professional setting.

make a point of doing something The idiom "make a point of doing something" means to intentionally and deliberately ensure that a certain action is performed or a particular task is accomplished. It emphasizes the determination to prioritize and actively fulfill a specific commitment or objective.

make up (the) leeway The idiom "make up (the) leeway" means to compensate or catch up on a delay or deficiency. It implies taking actions or making efforts to regain lost ground or overcome a shortfall in order to reach the desired outcome or level.

make sm an offer The idiom "make someone an offer" means to propose or present an option or proposition to someone, usually in a business or commercial context. It implies extending an opportunity or suggesting a deal, usually with negotiations involved.

make sm's position clear The idiom "make someone's position clear" means to express or clarify someone's stance, viewpoint, opinion, or intentions on a particular matter in a direct and unambiguous manner. It typically involves providing explicit and easily understandable information or declaration to ensure there is no confusion or misunderstanding about the individual's standpoint.

make fun of sm or sth The idiom "make fun of someone or something" refers to the act of mocking, teasing, or ridiculing someone or something in a humorous or derisive manner. It involves making jokes or humorous remarks at the expense of someone or something.

hit/make the headlines The idiom "hit/make the headlines" means to become a prominent or attention-grabbing news story or topic of public discussion. It refers to when an event, incident, or individual receives extensive coverage by media outlets, often appearing as the main headline in newspapers or news broadcasts. It implies that the subject matter has generated significant interest or controversy and has captured the attention of the public.

make a hit with The idiom "make a hit with" refers to impressing or gaining approval or popularity from someone or a group of people. It often implies achieving success, charm, or capturing someone's attention or admiration in a positive way.

make way in the world The idiom "make way in the world" refers to someone's ability to progress or achieve success in life, usually in relation to their career or personal endeavors. It implies the individual's capacity to overcome obstacles, establish themselves, and make progress in their chosen field or in society.

make good on The idiom "make good on" means to fulfill or carry out a promise, commitment, or agreement made earlier, usually in order to meet an obligation or expectation. It refers to taking actions that demonstrate follow-through on one's words or ensuring the completion of something promised.

make arrangements to do sth The idiom "make arrangements to do something" means to plan or organize the necessary steps or actions in order to accomplish or achieve something. It implies taking proactive measures or coordinating details to ensure that a specific task or event is prepared and executed accordingly.

make a name The idiom "make a name" means to become famous, renowned, or well-known for one's achievements or reputation.

make ground on (someone or something) The idiom "make ground on (someone or something)" means to gradually gain an advantage or progress closer to a goal in relation to a person or situation. It implies making incremental advances or improvements in order to achieve success or catch up with someone or something.

make a world of difference The idiom "make a world of difference" means to have a significant and positive impact or result on a situation or someone's life. It suggests that a small change or action can cause a transformation or improvement that is vast and meaningful.

empty vessels make (the) most noise The idiom "empty vessels make (the) most noise" means that those who are loud and talkative often have very little substance or knowledge to contribute. It suggests that those who are truly knowledgeable and wise tend to speak less and listen more, letting their actions and abilities speak for themselves.

You make me laugh! The idiom "You make me laugh!" is an expression used to convey that someone finds something amusing or funny. It implies that the person being addressed brings joy and amusement to the speaker through their humor or actions.

make hay (out) of something The idiom "make hay (out) of something" means to take advantage of a situation or exploit it for personal gain or benefit. It implies making the most out of an opportunity while it is available or exploiting a particular circumstance to accomplish something advantageous.

make sb's blood run cold The idiom "make someone's blood run cold" means to cause someone to become terrified, horrified, or filled with dread. It describes a situation or event that sends a shiver down someone's spine or induces extreme fear.

make a pig's ear of (something) The idiom "make a pig's ear of (something)" means to do something very badly or mess it up completely. It implies a failure or a lack of skill in carrying out a task effectively. The phrase is often used to express disappointment, frustration, or criticism towards someone's poor performance or execution of a particular action.

Come in and make yourself at home The idiom "Come in and make yourself at home" means to invite someone into a space and to make them feel comfortable and at ease as if they were in their own home. It encourages individuals to relax, feel welcomed, and behave as if they were in a familiar environment where they can freely do as they please.

make oneself at home The idiom "make oneself at home" means to feel comfortable and relaxed in a new or unfamiliar place, as if it were one's own home. It implies that the person is not hesitant or reserved, but rather freely behaves and settles in as if they were in a familiar environment.

make a fool of somebody/yourself The idiom "to make a fool of somebody/yourself" means to intentionally cause someone or oneself to look foolish, stupid, or ridiculous through one's actions, words, or behavior. It can refer to embarrassing someone publicly or making oneself appear foolish in front of others.

make noises about (something) To "make noises about (something)" means to talk or express intention, often in a vague or hesitant manner, about doing or pursuing something. It implies that someone is discussing or indicating interest in a particular idea or course of action, without taking definite steps or making firm commitments. It can also suggest making preliminary or initial movements towards a certain goal or objective.

make history The idiom "make history" means to do something that is significant or important enough to be recorded and remembered in future generations. It refers to making a lasting impact on society, culture, or a particular field.

make any sense (out) of (something) The idiom "make any sense (out) of (something)" means to understand or comprehend a particular situation, concept, or piece of information. It implies trying to find meaning or clarity in something that may be confusing or difficult to grasp. The phrase often indicates the need for logical reasoning or interpretation to comprehend the given subject matter. Example: "I've read this article three times, but I still can't make any sense of it."

if I may be/make so bold (as to) The idiom "if I may be/make so bold (as to)" is an expression used to politely ask permission or introduce a suggestion that may be considered slightly daring or unconventional. It implies that the speaker is aware that their statement may be seen as audacious or impolite, but they are willing to take the risk.

make (someone's) teeth itch The idiom "make (someone's) teeth itch" means to cause annoyance, irritation, or strong dislike in someone. It implies that something or someone is so irritating that it provokes an uncomfortable sensation akin to having an itch in one's teeth.

make a day/night/weekend of it The idiom "make a day/night/weekend of it" means to extend or maximize the enjoyment or experience of a particular day, night, or weekend activity. It implies taking advantage of the available time to fully immerse oneself in the event or take part in additional enjoyable activities surrounding the main event.

put the make on someone The idiom "put the make on someone" refers to attempting to flirt with or make romantic advances towards someone.

make way along

run a make on

Make haste slowly,

You make a better door than you do a window

make it sm place

make stick

One swallow does not make a summer,

Make it two

make day

want to make of it?

make no difference (to sm)

make eat crow

make against

make up a foursm

Make a lap!

make good as

make a book The idiom "make a book" means to place a bet on a certain outcome or event, typically in gambling.

make, etc. a dent in something To make a dent in something means to have a noticeable impact or effect on a particular situation or problem. It implies making progress or achieving some level of success in addressing a challenge or goal.

make head The idiom "make head" means to make progress or move forward, to achieve success or advance in a particular situation or endeavor.

make, etc. a mint To make a large amount of money, especially in a short period of time.

be/make a hit with somebody To be or make a hit with somebody means to be popular or well-liked by someone, to impress or appeal to someone.

make a leg The idiom "make a leg" means to make a bow or curtsy, generally in a formal or polite manner. It is often used when making a request or showing appreciation in a respectful manner.

make-out artist A "make-out artist" is someone who is skilled at kissing and intimate physical contact, often in a flirtatious or seductive manner. This term is typically used figuratively to describe someone who is particularly adept at romantic or sexual interactions with others.

go down in/make history To become a part of recorded history; to be remembered and celebrated for a significant achievement or event.

be/make so bold (as to do something) To be/make so bold (as to do something) means to have the audacity or courage to do something bold or daring. It implies taking a risk or acting confidently in a daring manner.

make horns at To make horns at someone means to glare at or give a hostile look in order to intimidate or threaten them.

leave/make your/its mark To leave/make your/its mark means to have a lasting or significant impact or influence on something or someone. It refers to leaving behind a legacy or making a significant impression that will be remembered for a long time.

make, lose, spend, etc. a packet The idiom "make, lose, spend, etc. a packet" means to make, lose, spend, or earn a large amount of money. It is often used to describe someone who has accumulated a significant amount of wealth or has experienced a financial windfall or loss.

make hamburger out of someone/something The idiom "make hamburger out of someone/something" means to completely destroy or defeat someone or something, often in a physical or competitive sense. It can also refer to breaking something down into smaller pieces or components.

grab/hit/make the headlines To attract a lot of attention or be featured prominently in news or media coverage.

make, etc. something by/with your own fair hand To create or produce something with one's own hands, typically emphasizing the personal effort, skill, or craftsmanship involved.

make about "Make about" is an idiom that means to calculate or estimate a particular amount or quantity.

pull/make faces/a face (at somebody) To pull/make faces/a face at somebody means to distort one's facial expression in a mocking or disrespectful manner towards someone else.

make a spoon or spoil a horn This idiom means that a person should do something productive or useful, otherwise they will waste their time or miss an opportunity. In other words, it highlights the importance of taking action and making the most of a situation.

make, cause, etc. a splash To make a splash means to attract a lot of attention or create a significant impact, usually in a positive way.

make (one's) beard The idiom "make (one's) beard" means to deceive or outsmart someone, often by pretending to be more powerful or knowledgeable than one actually is. It can also refer to challenging someone to a confrontation or competition.

make a Virginia fence To make a Virginia fence means to build or create a barrier or boundary that is hastily constructed or poorly made, often using whatever materials are readily available. It can also imply a makeshift solution that is temporary or not very effective.

kick up/make/create/raise a stink To "kick up/make/create/raise a stink" means to cause a commotion or make a big fuss about something, usually in order to draw attention to a problem or issue. It can also refer to causing trouble or making a scene in a loud or disruptive way.

pull/make faces/a face To pull/make faces/a face means to make strange or funny facial expressions, usually to express dislike, disapproval, mockery, or amusement.

make drain babies

easy make

How Do You Spell MAKE?

MAKE Meaning and Definition

Top Common Misspellings for MAKE *

Other Common Misspellings for MAKE

Etymology of MAKE

Idioms with the word MAKE

Similar spelling words for MAKE

Plural form of MAKE is MAKES

Conjugate verb Make

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