Meaning trap
make for
move towards a place
to go in the direction of a place, usually with a purpose or intention.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to go in the direction of a place, usually with a purpose or intention.
Another meaning of 'make for' is 'help to produce a result'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
As soon as the bell rang, the students made for the exit.
During emergencies, people often make for the nearest exit to ensure their safety.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: We made to the exit.
Say: We made for the exit.
'Make FOR' a place — don't drop 'for', and don't use 'to'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Make for' compactly means head towards with purpose; 'proceeded towards' is officious.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
make for + place
- the door
- the exit
- home
- the hills
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- make for (help to produce a result) — Another meaning of 'make for' is 'help to produce a result'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.