make them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make them" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used when you want to direct someone to create or construct something, or to cause something to happen. For example, "You can make them dinner if you want."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Make them want it".

Independent

That'd make them see.

The New Yorker

Make them wonder.

The New Yorker

Mainly, they make them.

The New York Times - Sports

Please make them stop!

The New York Times

Make them pay!

The New York Times

Make them different.

Independent

And he'll make them".

The New York Times

Losers make them nervous".

The New York Times - Books

You make them do".

The New York Times

Make them electric.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the nuance of "make" – it can imply creation, causation, or coercion, so choose it intentionally.

Common error

Avoid using "make them" when the referent of "them" is unclear. This can lead to confusion. Always ensure the audience knows who "them" refers to.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make them" primarily functions as an imperative, directing action towards a specified group. Ludwig examples illustrate this directive nature across diverse contexts. As per Ludwig, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

31%

News & Media

27%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "make them" functions primarily as an imperative, commonly used across various contexts from news and media to wikis and science. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and versatile. When using this phrase, ensure clarity in pronoun reference and consider the potential nuances of "make", which can imply creation, causation, or even coercion. Consider alternative phrases to tailor your message for both tone and meaning. Finally, be careful about when it is inappropriate to ask to "make them" do something that is unethical or illegal.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cause them to

Replaces the imperative "make" with a more direct causal verb.

ensure they

Shifts focus to guaranteeing a certain outcome.

compel them to

Similar to 'force', but often implies a moral or legal obligation.

get them to do it

Informal phrasing focusing on achieving a specific action.

arrange for them to

Highlights the planning and organization aspect.

force their compliance

Emphasizes coercion rather than simple creation or action.

induce them to

Implies persuasion or influence to achieve a desired result.

have them

More casual way of saying to cause something to happen.

build it for them

Focuses on a building aspect that benefits the other group.

let them

Focuses on permission rather than an imperative command.

FAQs

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

The phrase "make them" is used to instruct someone to cause something to happen or create something. For example, "Make them understand the importance of this project", or "Make them a delicious meal".

What are some alternatives to "make them"?

Depending on the context, you could use "cause them to", "force their compliance", or "get them to do it".

Is "make them" formal or informal?

"Make them" is generally neutral in tone, but its formality can vary depending on the surrounding context. In business communication, it may sound too direct, whereas in casual conversation, it's perfectly acceptable.

When is it inappropriate to use "make them"?

It might be inappropriate if the action being compelled is unethical or illegal. Consider the implications of using language that suggests forcing someone to do something against their will.