making do

USAGE SUMMARY

"making do" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used when describing a situation in which someone is managing with a limited amount of resources or materials. For example: "With only a few tools, the carpenter was able to make do and finish the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Mostly, people are making do.

The New York Times

"I'm making do.

The New York Times

Not just making do and mending".

The Guardian - Opinion

Mr. Posen, meanwhile, is making do.

The New York Times

"We were done making do," she said.

The New York Times

Making Do With What We Have.

Harvard University

"I'm used to making do," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

We're very good at just making do.

The Guardian

"Making do with less in tough times".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

Strategy, communications and policy-making do not join up, they grumble.

The Economist

But it is also fitting because there is always more making-do than one might think.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "making do", consider the specific context to ensure the phrase accurately reflects the situation. It often implies a degree of resourcefulness and adaptation under less-than-ideal circumstances.

Common error

While "making do" is widely understood, it can sound informal in certain professional or academic settings. Opt for more formal alternatives like "managing with available resources" or "optimizing existing assets" when communicating with a formal register.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "making do" functions as a present participle in a continuous verb phrase, often indicating an ongoing action of managing with limited resources. Ludwig examples show it describing people or entities adapting to constraints.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "making do" is a common idiom that describes the act of managing with limited resources. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use, particularly in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's best to consider the register of your writing, opting for more formal alternatives in professional or academic settings. Remember to use "making do" to express resourcefulness and adaptation effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

managing with what's available

This phrase focuses on resourcefulness and utilizing existing resources.

getting by on less

This alternative highlights the ability to survive on minimal resources.

coping with limitations

This alternative emphasizes the act of dealing with restrictions.

making ends meet

This phrase emphasizes the struggle to cover basic expenses.

making the best of it

This emphasizes a positive attitude despite unfavorable conditions.

tightening the belt

This idiom refers to reducing expenses and living more frugally.

improvising solutions

This highlights the ability to create solutions using unconventional methods.

scrimping and saving

This focuses on frugality and careful resource management.

roughing it

This suggests enduring discomfort or hardship with minimal amenities.

winging it

This implies improvising without a plan or preparation.

FAQs

How can I use "making do" in a sentence?

"Making do" is used to describe managing a situation with limited resources. For example, "They were "making do" with the old equipment until the new machines arrived."

What are some alternatives to "making do"?

Alternatives include "coping with limitations", "managing with what's available", or "getting by on less".

Is "making do" formal or informal?

"Making do" is generally considered an informal phrase. In formal contexts, consider using more professional alternatives such as "resource optimization" or "strategic adaptation".

What does it mean to "make do with" something?

To "make do with" something means to manage or cope with something that is less than ideal or sufficient. It implies using what is available, even if it's not the best option.