make a list of

USAGE SUMMARY

"make a list of" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when you want to suggest that someone should make a list of items, such as when giving instructions. For example, "Let's make a list of things we need to bring on our camping trip."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Make a list of addressees.

WikiHow

Make a list of chapters.

WikiHow

Make a list of losses.

WikiHow

Make a list of descriptions.

WikiHow

Make a list of possibilities.

WikiHow

Make a list of symptoms.

WikiHow

Make a list of characters.

WikiHow

Make a list of resources.

WikiHow

Make a list of reminders.

WikiHow

Make a list of positives.

WikiHow

Make a list of them.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When brainstorming ideas, use "make a list of" to organize your thoughts into actionable steps. This helps to clarify goals and track progress.

Common error

Avoid creating overly long, unprioritized lists that lack focus. Before you "make a list of" items, consider grouping and ranking them by importance or urgency to maintain efficiency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make a list of" functions as a directive, instructing the listener or reader to create a list. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage, demonstrated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

News & Media

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make a list of" is a common and grammatically sound directive used to instruct someone to create an itemized record for planning, organizing, or documenting information. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and prevalence, although the source material is largely from WikiHow, indicating a general and accessible usage. While interchangeable with alternatives like "create a list of" or "compile a list of", choosing to "make a list of" is about clarity and instruction. When using the phrase, ensure that the list's purpose and prioritization are clear to avoid creating an overwhelming and ineffective compilation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

create a list of

Replaces "make" with "create", emphasizing the act of forming the list.

prepare a list of

Indicates readiness and planning in creating the list.

compile a list of

Suggests gathering information from various sources to form the list.

draw up a list of

Implies preparing a formal or official list.

put together a list of

Emphasizes the action of assembling the list from different components.

formulate a list of

Highlights the planning and careful development of the list.

enumerate a list of

Focuses on the act of numbering items on the list.

itemize a list of

Stresses the detailed specification of items on the list.

catalogue a list of

Suggests a systematic and comprehensive listing.

inventory a list of

Emphasizes a complete and detailed record, often used for physical items.

FAQs

How can I use "make a list of" in a sentence?

You can use "make a list of" to suggest creating an inventory or compilation. For example, "Before going to the grocery store, "make a list of" the items you need".

What are some alternatives to "make a list of"?

Alternatives include "create a list of", "compile a list of", or "draw up a list of", depending on the context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "make a list of" or "create a list of"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct and largely interchangeable. "Make a list of" is slightly more informal, while "create a list of" might sound more formal or deliberate.

What's the difference between "make a list of" and "take stock of"?

"Make a list of" implies creating an itemized record, whereas "take stock of" means assessing or evaluating a situation or collection of items.