make the bed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make the bed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe the action of tidying up a bed by changing the sheets, fluffing the pillows, and making sure the bedspread is smooth. For example, you could write: "Before leaving for school, I remember to make the bed every morning."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

make the bed habitable into the house.

The New Yorker

I'll make the bed later," she says.

The Guardian

I brush my teeth, get dressed, make the bed.

The New Yorker

When you make the bed together, it's a different feeling for both of us".

The New York Times

"Empty the dishwasher, then make the bed, vacuum the living room, then clean the bathroom".

Independent

The trick is, he says, you make the bed as soon as you get up.

The New Yorker

Once the ice cream is made, you can make the bed.

The New York Times - Food

There's a nice restaurant and they make the bed for you.

The New York Times

"Accessories make the bed into who you want her to be," she explained.

The New York Times

"I mean, it doesn't matter if you make the bed or not.

The New Yorker

Earlier this week, with Penn State looming, he did not even take a moment to make the bed.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To foster a sense of accomplishment and order, "make the bed" first thing in the morning. It's a small task with a significant positive impact on your mindset.

Common error

Don't get bogged down in achieving perfect hospital corners or obsessing over minor imperfections when you "make the bed". The goal is to create a tidy and inviting space, not to meet unrealistic standards.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make the bed" functions primarily as a transitive verb phrase, where "make" is the verb and "the bed" is the direct object. Ludwig shows it in sentences where the action of arranging the bedclothes is described.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "make the bed" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe tidying a bed. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in news and media, as well as wiki-based sources. While seemingly simple, using "make the bed" in your writing correctly can add a touch of order and clarity, especially when describing daily routines or tasks. Remember to avoid overcomplicating the process and focus on the core action of arranging the bedding neatly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tidy the bed

Focuses on the act of tidying, which is a broader term encompassing making the bed but also other actions.

arrange the bedding

Emphasizes the arrangement of sheets and blankets, specifying the elements involved in making the bed.

straighten the covers

Highlights the action of straightening the bed covers, a specific aspect of making the bed.

prepare the bed

Indicates making the bed ready for use, which might include more than just tidying it.

neaten the bedclothes

Replaces 'bed' with 'bedclothes', specifying the items being neatened.

fix the bed

Implies correcting something wrong with the bed, or simply arranging it.

remake the bed

Suggests making the bed again, possibly after it has been used or disarranged.

adjust the bed

Refers to making minor adjustments to the bed's appearance.

smooth the sheets

Focuses on the act of smoothing out the sheets, a specific step in making the bed.

do the bed

A more informal and concise way to say "make the bed".

FAQs

How can I politely ask someone to "make the bed"?

Instead of directly commanding, try a gentler approach like, "Could you please "tidy the bed" this morning?" or "It would be great if you could "arrange the bedding"." These options are more considerate and less likely to cause offense.

Is it better to "make the bed" immediately after waking up or later in the day?

While some prefer to "make the bed" right away for a quick sense of accomplishment, others suggest waiting to allow the sheets to air out, potentially reducing dust mites. The best time depends on personal preference and hygiene considerations.

Which is correct, "make the bed" or "do the bed"?

"Make the bed" is the standard and more widely accepted phrase. "Do the bed" is less common and can sound informal.

What's the difference between "make the bed" and "prepare the bed"?

"Make the bed" generally refers to tidying up the existing bedding, while "prepare the bed" might involve changing sheets, adding extra blankets, or otherwise getting it ready for someone to sleep in.