Another Word for Make: 21 Synonyms with Examples
Make is a very general verb for creating, causing or forcing. A more exact word often tells the reader what was made and how.
As a verb: create or produce
As a verb: cause
As a verb: force
- force
- compel
- oblige
- require
- pressure
As a verb: earn
- earn
- gain
- net
- bring in
- clear
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- create
- Brings something new into existence, often creatively.
- build
- Puts together, often something large.
- manufacture
- Makes goods in large numbers in a factory.
- prepare
- Makes ready, especially food or documents.
- force
- Makes someone do something against their will.
- earn
- Gets money through work.
Example sentences
- create: Pupils created a short film about their town.
- build: They built a shed at the bottom of the garden.
- manufacture: The factory manufactures parts for bicycles.
- prepare: He prepared a simple lunch for everyone.
- force: The storm forced the ferry to turn back.
- earn: The stall earned more than £300 on Saturday.
Opposite of make
- destroy
- break
- dismantle
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “make”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: do, get, induce, stimulate, have
noun: brand, shuffle, shuffling
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “make”?
The most useful alternatives are “create”, “produce”, “build”, “construct”, “manufacture”. For the main sense (create or produce), “create” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “create” and “build”?
create: Brings something new into existence, often creatively. build: Puts together, often something large.
What is the opposite of “make”?
Common antonyms are “destroy”, “break”, “dismantle”.