make a comment

USAGE SUMMARY

'make a comment' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to request someone to express an opinion or offer advice on a topic. For example: "Please make a comment about the proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"No, I'll make a comment," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

Does being partisan make a comment bad?

The Washington Post

"But he did make a comment on the Mafia.

The New York Times - Sports

"Yeah — I would like to make a comment," Kasich said.

The New Yorker

"Wendell, may I make a comment on that?

The New Yorker

ROBERT BUD: I wanted to make a comment [INAUDIBLE].

Cornell University

Please accept this invitation to make a comment.

University of California, Berkeley

"I'll make a comment on that," said McDowell.

The Guardian - Sport

I wouldn't even begin to make a comment on that.

The New York Times - Magazine

I didn't know he was going to make a comment.

The New York Times - Sports

A spokesman for the Cabinet Office declined to make a comment on the allegations.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "make a comment" when you want to politely invite someone to share their thoughts or opinions on a specific subject. It's suitable for both formal and informal settings.

Common error

While "make a comment" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal writing. Consider using more precise alternatives like "offer an analysis" or "provide an assessment" for a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a comment" functions as a verbal phrase used to express the act of offering an opinion, observation, or reaction. Ludwig AI indicates its widespread usage, validating its place in standard English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Academia

27%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

9%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make a comment" is a versatile and widely used phrase for expressing an opinion or observation, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields like news, academia, and science. While generally acceptable, it's advisable to consider more precise alternatives in highly formal writing. When using "make a comment", ensure it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your communication, and avoid overuse. As with any phrase, context is key.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offer a remark

Replaces 'comment' with 'remark', suggesting a slightly more formal or considered statement.

provide feedback

Substitutes 'comment' with 'feedback', implying a more constructive or evaluative input.

share an observation

Replaces 'comment' with 'observation', focusing on something noticed or perceived.

express an opinion

Emphasizes the personal viewpoint being shared, making it a more direct statement of belief.

state one's views

Highlights the articulation of personal beliefs or perspectives on a matter.

voice an opinion

Similar to 'express an opinion' but perhaps implying a more public declaration.

add a note

Suggests a brief or supplementary remark, often written.

put forth an idea

Focuses on introducing a new thought or concept into the discussion.

contribute a thought

Highlights the addition of one's thinking or perspective to a collective discussion.

chime in

Implies interjecting into a conversation, often with a brief or informal remark.

FAQs

How can I use "make a comment" in a sentence?

You can use "make a comment" when you want to ask someone for their opinion or feedback, for example: "Would you like to make a comment on the new proposal?"

What's a more formal alternative to "make a comment"?

In formal settings, consider using phrases like "offer an observation", "provide feedback", or "present an analysis".

Is it always appropriate to use "make a comment"?

While generally acceptable, "make a comment" might be too informal for certain highly formal or technical contexts. Consider the audience and the specific situation.

What's the difference between "make a comment" and "give an opinion"?

"Make a comment" is a more general phrase, while "give an opinion" specifically implies sharing a personal viewpoint. You might "make a comment" that is simply an observation without necessarily expressing your opinion.