make a dummy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make a dummy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to creating a model or representation of something, often for testing or demonstration purposes. Example: "In order to test the new software, we need to make a dummy version of the application."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

I may make a dummy variable with a one-character name, set the other variable equal to it, and plot that one instead.

Yale University

At a later stage, I make a dummy at the real size of the book to get a better feel of the end product.

The Guardian

"I know that I have way too much on my plate to think about without trying to make a dummy call".

The New York Times

Langdale challenged Evans's claim made earlier this week that Coulson had instructed Evans to make a dummy copy of the Miller tape, stick it in a Jiffy bag and send it to the paper's courier office, who would then send it back up to the office as part of an attempt to conceal its true provenance.

The Guardian

In May the German hacking group the Chaos Computer Club said it had fooled Samsung's iris scanner with a photo used to make a dummy eye.

BBC

"So, if you are able to make a dummy finger from fingerprints found on the phone, the two factors are only worth one," he concludes.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

We made a dummy booking and this was indeed the case.

The Guardian - Money

House made a dummy out of burlap sacks and filled it with stones, weighing it on the hostelry scales until the needle stood pat on one-forty.

The New Yorker

Angelo Palombo made a dummy run at the ball, before Manolo Gabbiadini swept an in-swinging cross towards the back post.

The Guardian - Sport

So he makes a dummy of the sexy Castiza in which the head is a skull with poison around the mouth.

The Guardian - Books

According to the novel, their illusions helped turn the tide against the Germans, claiming that they won the battle of El Alamein in northern Egypt by creating making a dummy army in the desert.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make a dummy" in technical contexts, be specific about the purpose of the dummy and its limitations. For example, "We will "make a dummy" data set to test the algorithm's performance before applying it to the full data set."

Common error

Avoid using "make a dummy" without specifying the context. It's better to be explicit about what kind of dummy you're creating. Instead of saying "Let's "make a dummy", specify "Let's "make a dummy" webpage to demonstrate the concept."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a dummy" functions as a verb phrase followed by a noun, where "make" is the verb and "dummy" is the direct object. It describes the action of creating a model or representation, as illustrated by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make a dummy" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe the creation of a simplified model or representation. As confirmed by Ludwig, it spans various contexts from technical testing to creative projects. For clarity, specifying the type and purpose of the dummy is crucial. While versatile, remember to tailor your word choice to match the formality of your context, opting for alternatives like "develop a prototype" in professional or academic settings. The prevalence across News & Media and Wiki sources indicates a broad understanding, while scientific sources suggest a more technical application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a model

Focuses on the act of creating a simplified representation for analysis or testing.

build a prototype

Emphasizes constructing an initial version for testing and refinement.

construct a mock-up

Highlights creating a non-functional replica for visual or spatial assessment.

fabricate a simulation

Implies creating an artificial environment or scenario for experimentation.

develop a stand-in

Refers to creating a substitute for a person or object, often temporarily.

form a representation

Highlights creating a visual or symbolic depiction of something.

assemble a replica

Focuses on creating an accurate copy or imitation.

devise a makeshift version

Emphasizes creating a temporary or improvised solution.

set up a false front

Highlights creating a deceptive appearance or facade.

put together a rough draft

Refers to creating a preliminary version or outline.

FAQs

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

You can use "make a dummy" to describe the creation of a simplified model or representation, such as "The engineers will "make a dummy" of the engine to test its components".

What can I say instead of "make a dummy"?

Alternatives include "create a model", "build a prototype", or "construct a mock-up", depending on the context.

Is "make a dummy" formal or informal?

The phrase "make a dummy" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or business settings.

What's the difference between "make a dummy" and "create a simulation"?

"Make a dummy" often refers to a physical or simplified model, while "create a simulation" typically involves creating a digital or virtual representation of a system or process.