Meaning
-
Make for means:
- To move in the direction of something; go towards.
- To help produce or cause a result; contribute to.
Grammar and Usage
- Part of speech: Phrasal verb.
- Pattern 1 (movement): make for + place/direction → "He made for the exit."
- Pattern 2 (result/contribution): make for + noun (abstract result) → "This makes for a better atmosphere."
It is intransitive when used for movement, and transitive-like (with abstract objects) when meaning "contribute to."
Common Phrases
- make for the door – head towards the door.
- make for home – go home.
- make for trouble – cause or contribute to trouble.
- make for a good combination – contribute to a positive outcome.
Collocations
- make for the exit
- make for a good impression
- make for confusion
- make for success
Examples
- After the speech, the audience made for the exits.
- The strong winds made for a difficult journey.
- His calm manner makes for a good teacher.
- Dark clouds made for a gloomy afternoon.
- She made for the nearest café to escape the rain.
- The team’s cooperation made for an exciting match.
- His constant interruptions make for a frustrating meeting.
- Good communication skills make for strong leadership.
Synonyms or Related
- head for (movement)
- go toward
- contribute to (result)
- lead to
Antonym
- move away from (opposite of direction)
- detract from (opposite of contribute to)