makes it work

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "makes it work" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe how something is functioning effectively or how a solution is implemented successfully. Example: "With the right tools and teamwork, we can find a way that makes it work for everyone involved."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

He makes it work".

The New York Times

Yet he makes it work.

The New Yorker

But everything makes it work.

The New York Times

"Somehow, George makes it work".

The New Yorker

(Pablo makes it work, all right).

The New Yorker

"The right form makes it work, simply".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

There's nobody else in their mind that makes it work".

The New York Times - Sports

But it's the narrative that makes it work".

The New York Times

But he makes it work – he really does.

The Guardian

Whatever the motive for the switch, Mr Jackman makes it work.

The Economist

As a congressman, Khanna would continue to study "the Valley ecosystem" and what makes it work.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "makes it work" to emphasize the successful application of a strategy or the effective functioning of a system, especially when initial conditions might suggest otherwise.

Common error

While "makes it work" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in formal writing where more precise or sophisticated language may be appropriate. Consider alternatives like "ensures its functionality" or "allows it to function" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "makes it work" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of causing something to function effectively or achieve a desired outcome. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usability, demonstrating its role in expressing how effort or specific elements contribute to successful operation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Social Media

2%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "makes it work" is a versatile expression used to describe the action of successfully implementing a solution or ensuring the effective functioning of a system, often despite initial challenges. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider more formal alternatives like "ensures functionality" in academic or business settings. To avoid overuse, one can use alternatives such as "gets the job done" or "achieves the objective", depending on the intended nuance. The high frequency and wide applicability of "makes it work" demonstrate its importance in everyday communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pulls it off

This phrase suggests the successful execution of a task, often implying that it was difficult or unlikely to succeed.

gets the job done

This alternative stresses the completion of a task, often with an emphasis on efficiency and practicality.

succeeds in doing it

This more formal phrasing emphasizes that the act of doing it has been successful, focusing on the achievement of a positive outcome.

achieves the objective

This alternative focuses on the attainment of a specific goal or aim, emphasizing the successful completion of a predetermined task.

finds a solution

This phrase places emphasis on the resolution of a problem or difficulty, focusing on the successful discovery of a method to overcome an obstacle.

brings it to fruition

This phrase highlights the successful development and completion of a project or plan, emphasizing the process of bringing something to a successful conclusion.

delivers the goods

This idiom emphasizes the successful fulfillment of expectations or promises, typically in a professional or performance-oriented context.

overcomes the challenge

This option emphasizes the ability to successfully navigate and conquer difficulties or obstacles.

turns it around

This phrase implies a reversal of fortune or a successful recovery from a negative situation, focusing on the act of changing something for the better.

works like a charm

This idiom suggests that something functions perfectly and effortlessly, producing the desired result with ease and effectiveness.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "makes it work" for a formal context?

In formal contexts, you might consider alternatives such as "ensures its functionality", "enables its operation", or "facilitates its success", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What does "makes it work" imply about the situation?

The phrase "makes it work" often implies that there were challenges or obstacles to overcome, and that effort or ingenuity was required to achieve a positive outcome. The situation wasn't necessarily going to work without someone's intervention.

Is "makes it work" appropriate for academic writing?

While "makes it work" is generally acceptable, academic writing often benefits from more precise language. Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "enables", "facilitates", or "ensures success".

What's the difference between "makes it work" and "makes it happen"?

"Makes it work" implies overcoming obstacles to achieve functionality, while "makes it happen" suggests initiating action to bring something into existence. The former emphasizes problem-solving; the latter, proactive creation.