making
making — noun
1. The work and activities involved in creating, building, or preparing something —
The work and activities involved in creating, building, or preparing something — such as constructing a house, cooking a meal, or filming a movie.
The making of Élise's documentary about ocean pollution lasted eighteen months.
the making of [noun phrase] — process of creation
Yumi studied traditional knife making under a master craftsman in Kyoto.
[noun] + making — compound form
The making of the playground involved parents, teachers, and local builders.
Christopher wrote an article about the making of chocolate from cocoa beans.
The making of cheese in this village has continued for over two centuries.
- production
emphasises organised or industrial output rather than the hands-on process
- creation
stresses the act of bringing something new into being, often artistic
- manufacture
suggests large-scale factory production using machinery
- destruction
the opposite action of breaking or demolishing something
文法句型
the making of [something]
[noun] + making
用法筆記
Often appears in the fixed structure 'the making of + noun phrase' or as the second part of a compound noun (film-making, bread-making, decision-making). This sense is uncountable and does not have a plural form.
常見錯誤
2. The set of items, substances, or parts that are needed in order to assemble or c
The set of items, substances, or parts that are needed in order to assemble or construct a particular thing — for example, the ingredients for a dish or the pieces for a piece of furniture.
Dahlia bought the makings of a chicken curry — spices, coconut milk, and rice.
the makings of [dish] — listing components
Eitan gathered the makings of a small bookshelf: wood panels, nails, and glue.
The makings of a simple first-aid kit were spread across the kitchen table.
Léa checked if she had the makings of a birthday cake for her nephew.
- ingredients
specifically for food and cooking contexts
- components
suggests individual parts that together form a complete system
- materials
emphasises the physical substances or supplies needed
文法句型
the makings of [something]
用法筆記
Always used in the plural form 'makings' in this sense. Typically followed by 'of' and a noun describing what is being made. Most common in everyday contexts about food or simple construction projects.
常見錯誤
3. The natural qualities or abilities that indicate a person or thing could develop
The natural qualities or abilities that indicate a person or thing could develop into a particular kind of person or thing — for instance, someone who has the right skills and character to become an excellent leader.
Trang's early stories showed she had the makings of a fine novelist.
have the makings of — showing potential
The new programmer has the makings of a team leader someday.
Her calm voice and clear instructions showed the makings of a good teacher.
Padma believed the small shop had the makings of a successful chain.
Hamza's first art exhibition had the makings of a long career ahead.
- inability
lack of the necessary qualities or skills
文法句型
have/show the makings of [something]
用法筆記
Always plural 'makings' in this sense. The pattern 'have the makings of' cannot be reduced to 'have the making of' (singular). The noun after 'of' names the role or thing the subject is predicted to become. Frequently used with careers, professions, or roles that require developed skill.