Words (Core Collocations)
MAKE (create/decide/produce a result)
- make a decision/plan/appointment
- make progress/time (on a task / on the road)
- make coffee/lunch/a reservation
- make a mistake/call/payment
DO (perform an action/task/general activity)
- do the dishes/laundry/housework
- do homework/research
- do a favor
- do well/okay on a test
TAKE (remove/receive/spend/use; often time)
- take a break/seat/photo
- take notes/responsibility
- take time / take the bus
- take medicine
GET (obtain/receive/become)
- get permission/a receipt/a refund
- get a job/a message
- get ready / get lost / get home
- get better/worse (become)
HAVE (experience/possess/arrange)
- have breakfast/lunch/dinner
- have a meeting/call/appointment
- have a look/try/go
- have time/a chance
Phrases (Natural, polite)
- Could we make an appointment for next Tuesday?
- I’ll do the dishes if you take the trash out.
- Did you get a receipt? I might need it for taxes.
- Let’s have a look at the contract together.
Contextual Examples (Everyday)
- Work: We made a plan and did a lot of research before presenting.
- Travel: I’ll take the early bus; can you get tickets online?
- Health: Have a seat—the nurse will be with you soon.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
- make a reservation/payment
- do a favor/cleanup
- take a day off
- get approval/refund
- have a chat/meeting
Quick Usage Tips
- make vs. do: make = create/result; do = perform/general.
- take time: “It takes 20 minutes to get there.”
- get + adjective: get ready/tired/busy = become.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Ask: “Could I get approval today so we can make a booking?”
- Offer: “I’ll do the shopping; you make the salad.”
- Suggest: “Let’s take a break and have a coffee.”