What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
build
Example
They are planning to build a new school in the neighborhood. [build: verb]
Example
He built a model airplane using a kit. [built: past tense]
Example
She is building a successful career in finance. [building: present participle]
make
Example
She makes beautiful jewelry using beads and wire. [make: verb]
Example
He made a delicious cake for his sister's birthday. [made: past tense]
Example
They are making plans for their upcoming vacation. [making: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Make is more commonly used than build in everyday language. Make is a versatile word that can be used in a wide range of contexts, while build is more specific and tends to be used in technical or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between build and make?
While build is often associated with a more technical or formal tone, make is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
