Phrasal verbs "head for" vs "make for"

Differences between head for and make for

Head for and make for both mean to move towards a particular place or destination, but head for implies a more intentional or planned movement, while make for suggests a more sudden or urgent movement.

Meanings and Definitions: head for vs make for

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Head for

• 1. Move or travel towards.

  It's getting late- I'm HEADING FOR home.

Make for

• 1. Head in a certain direction.

  We MADE FOR home when it started raining.

• 2. Produce a result or situation.

  The low quality of the service MADE FOR a lot of dissatisfaction.

Usage Examples: head for, make for in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

head for

Example

After work, she usually heads for the gym.

Example

He heads for the bus stop every morning.

make for

Example

When the storm approached, we made for the nearest shelter.

Example

She makes for the bus stop every morning.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Head for

go to

To move towards a specific place or destination.

Example

We're planning to go to the beach this weekend and enjoy the sun and waves.

set off for

To begin a journey or trip towards a particular destination.

Example

We set off for the mountains early in the morning to avoid traffic and enjoy the scenic route.

aim for

To have a specific goal or target in mind and work towards achieving it.

Example

She's aiming for a promotion at work and has been taking extra courses to improve her skills.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make for

hurry towards

To move quickly towards a particular place or direction.

Example

We need to hurry towards the exit before the building collapses.

run for

To escape or flee from danger or trouble.

Example

When the fire broke out, everyone started to run for their lives.

head towards

To move in a particular direction or towards a specific place.

Example

The hikers decided to head towards the waterfall and enjoy the breathtaking view.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “head”

• head off
• head out
• head up

Phrasal Verbs with “make”

• make up to
• make with
• make towards
• make away with
• make it up to

Phrasal Verbs with “for”

• fish for
• opt for
• touch for
• angle for
• count for

Differences in head for vs make for: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: head for or make for?

Both head for and make for are commonly used in everyday conversation, but head for is slightly more common. This is because it's a more versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts, such as travel, sports, or even emotions. Make for is mainly used in situations where there's a sudden need to move or escape from something.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of head for and make for

Head for and make for are both informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, head for can also be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, while make for is less appropriate in those situations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of head for and make for

The tone of head for and make for can differ based on context. Head for often carries a determined or excited tone when related to reaching a destination or achieving a goal, while make for typically has a more urgent or panicked tone, especially when referring to escaping from danger or trouble.

head for & make for: Synonyms and Antonyms

Head for

Synonyms

• go towards
• move towards
• travel towards
• aim for
• make for
• proceed to
• direct one's steps towards

Antonyms

• leave
• depart
• retreat
• move away
• head away

Make for

Synonyms

• approach
• head for
• move towards
• go towards
• aim for
• proceed to
• direct oneself to

Antonyms

• avoid
• shun
• retreat from
• move away from
• turn away from
• withdraw from