Meaning of "make a go of things"

[Enlearnercn]

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #92 "Using Make and Do (2)", question 1

Even though the situation was not ideal, they decided to ......... a go of things.

(a) make
(b) do
(c) made
(d) did

English Grammar Tests, Elementary Level

ESL/EFL Test #92 "Using Make and Do (2)", answer 1

Even though the situation was not ideal, they decided to make a go of things.

Correct answer: (a) make

Your answer was: correct
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Dear Sir,

Would you be so kind as to tell me the meaning of "make a go of things" ?

Thanks in advance

Enlearnercn

[Conchita]

To make a go of it is to try to make the business successful, to make something succeed, usually by working hard.

[Linda]

Hello,
Similarly, it means to 'make the best of things' - out of a situation that is not exactly the way you'd like it to be. In other words, to be positive, to try and make it successful and/or to have a good time.
Linda

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[Igal1]

why not do?
best regard

[Linda]

"Do" is not part of the expression.
The expression is 'to make a go of things.'
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[Alan]

Hi Linda,

I'm probably a bit slow in noticing it, but I see you are back on the forums again. How are things with you? It seems a lifetime ago when you made your debut.

Best wishes,

Alan
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[Linda]

Hi Alan,
I'm doing well. How are you? It's definitely been a while since I posted anything. I've been pretty busy with work and I recently had a great visit with my family from Canada. I do get notifications from the forum from time to time but most of the moderators are really quick about answering questions ..... and that's a good thing. :) I hope you're keeping busy and enjoying the spring/summer weather across the pond.
Take care,
Linda
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[Alan]

Hi Linda,

Good to have your response. I am keeping busy. As for the weather on this small island, you never can tell. It seems to me that everything is upside down
and sometimes you appear to go through all the seasons in one week. But then at least it provides a topic of conversation among us taciturn islanders!

Alan
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[Linda]

Island? Sounds beautiful, though, in spite of the wonky weather. We live about an hour from the coast and we've also had a little bit of everything lately. But, you're right - it gives us all something to talk about. It's really good hearing from you and I hope the summer (for both of us) turns out to be a little more stable and pleasant. Enjoy the island!! :)
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