makes it happen

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "makes it happen" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone or something that causes a desired outcome or brings about a specific result. Example: "With her determination and leadership, she truly makes it happen for the team."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His friends — who call him Sandy — say that if he believes in something, he makes it happen — like Carnegie Hall's new education wing in its renovated "studio towers".

The New York Times

"He makes it happen.

The New York Times - Sports

technology makes it happen".

The New York Times

Cooperation makes it happen".

The New York Times

Momo makes it happen".

The Guardian - Tech

Because Finch makes it happen.

The New Yorker

Ivy makes it happen sooner.

The New York Times

"Everything I do just makes it happen".

The New Yorker

It makes it happen a lot faster".

The New York Times - Sports

"Old Angela, man, she makes it happen.

The New Yorker

She is the one who makes it happen".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a process, consider using "makes it happen" to underscore the critical element that ensures success.

Common error

Avoid using "makes it happen" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated or precise language to convey the same meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes it happen" functions as a predicate, indicating the action of causing something to occur. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it often describes someone's proactive role in achieving a desired outcome.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

15%

Tech

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "makes it happen" is a common and generally acceptable expression used to describe the act of causing something to occur or be successful. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and business. While it may be too informal for highly academic or scientific writing, it effectively conveys agency and the ability to influence outcomes. Consider using alternatives like "brings it about" or "turns it into reality" for more formal settings. Remember to use "makes it happen" to highlight proactive and influential actions, avoiding overuse in contexts that require more precise language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brings it about

Replaces "makes" with "brings", offering a slightly more formal tone.

turns it into reality

Emphasizes the transformation from a concept to a tangible outcome.

brings it to fruition

Highlights the successful completion of a process or plan.

achieves the desired result

Focuses on the accomplishment of a specific outcome.

ensures its success

Highlights the act of guaranteeing a positive outcome.

executes it effectively

Emphasizes the efficiency and skill in carrying out an action.

is instrumental in its realization

Implies a crucial role in achieving a specific outcome.

is the driving force behind it

Suggests that the subject is the primary motivator or catalyst.

is responsible for its occurrence

Indicates accountability for something taking place.

facilitates its actualization

Focuses on enabling or assisting in bringing something to reality.

FAQs

What does "makes it happen" mean?

The phrase "makes it happen" means to cause something to occur or be successful, often through proactive effort or influence.

How can I use "makes it happen" in a sentence?

You can use "makes it happen" to describe someone or something that brings about a specific result, such as, "She is the technician who "makes it happen"".

What can I say instead of "makes it happen"?

You can use alternatives like "brings it about", "turns it into reality", or "brings it to fruition" depending on the context.

Is "makes it happen" formal or informal?

The phrase "makes it happen" is generally considered informal and is best suited for casual or professional communication rather than highly formal or academic writing.