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make for

B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

Either to go directly toward a place, or to help cause or create something — like 'this makes for a great atmosphere.'

Literal meaning: 'Make' in the sense of 'direct one's course' + 'for' (in the direction of). Partly transparent for the directional sense.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

To move purposefully toward a place or person.

"As soon as the alarm rang, everyone made for the nearest emergency exit."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

To contribute to or produce a particular result, situation, or quality.

"A common interest in travel makes for great conversation on a first date."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B2 neutral

To attack or move aggressively toward someone.

"The guard dog made straight for the intruder the moment it was released."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Two distinct senses: (1) movement/direction — 'She made for the exit' — meaning to move purposefully toward a place. (2) contributing to a result — 'Good lighting makes for a relaxing atmosphere' — meaning to produce or create a condition. Both senses are common and the correct reading depends entirely on context.

Commonly used with

exit door coast good reading interesting conversation uncomfortable situation

Forms

Base
make for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
makes for
he/she/it
Past simple
made for
yesterday
Past participle
made for
have + pp
-ing form
making for
continuous

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Synonyms

head for move toward contribute to create result in produce

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