make it even

USAGE SUMMARY

"make it even" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to add extra to something, or when you want to even out a discrepancy or difference. For example: "You helped me to clean the kitchen, but I think I should make it even by cooking dinner for you tonight."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

Make it 15.

The New York Times - Sports

Make it "34 states that have introduced".

The New York Times

"Make it 475," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

I should make it RCH2, sorry.

Yale University

We used to make it 300 cases.

Cornell University

"Make it 3 30 or 4 one time.

The New York Times - Sports

He will make it 11 on Sunday.

The New York Times - Sports

Singles make it 16 from the over.

The Guardian - Sport

That definition would make it 55.

The New York Times

Make it 10 a day".

Forbes

Make it 250MB.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "make it even" in a transactional context, ensure it is clear what is being balanced. For instance, "I'll wash the dishes; you can cook to make it even."

Common error

Avoid using "make it even" without specifying what "it" refers to. This can lead to confusion. Instead of saying "Let's make it even", specify: "Let's make the workload even."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make it even" primarily functions as a verb phrase, expressing the intention to balance or equalize a situation. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase follows standard grammatical rules and is generally acceptable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make it even" is a versatile phrase used to suggest balancing or compensating for an imbalance. Though Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and general acceptability, example sentences are missing. It is generally informal, making it suitable for casual conversations, but may require more formal alternatives in professional settings. Key considerations include clarifying what is being balanced to avoid ambiguity and ensuring the phrase aligns with the context to maintain clarity. Related alternatives include phrases such as "even things out" and "balance the equation".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

even things out

Focuses on achieving equality or balance in a situation, often implying a reduction of differences.

level the playing field

Specifically addresses creating equal opportunities or fairness, often in a competitive context.

square things up

Implies resolving a debt or imbalance, often in a financial or transactional sense.

balance the equation

More formal and abstract, suggesting a need to restore equilibrium in a system or situation.

make amends

Addresses compensating for a wrong or mistake, aiming to restore a positive relationship.

compensate for

Directly addresses providing something to offset a lack or deficiency.

add to the total

Focuses on increasing a quantity to reach a desired amount.

bring into equilibrium

Formal and scientific, suggesting a restoration of balance in a system.

equalize

A single verb emphasizing the action of making things equal.

offset the difference

Emphasizes counteracting a discrepancy or imbalance.

FAQs

How can I use "make it even" in a sentence?

You can use "make it even" to describe balancing a situation or compensating for something. For example, "Since you helped me move, let me "make it even" by buying you dinner."

What does "make it even" mean?

"Make it even" means to balance or equalize a situation, often by adding something to compensate for a difference or imbalance.

What can I say instead of "make it even"?

Alternatives to "make it even" include "even things out", "balance the equation", or "square things up" depending on the context.

Is "make it even" formal or informal?

"Make it even" is generally considered informal and suitable for everyday conversation. More formal contexts might benefit from using phrases like "compensate for" or "equalize".