make it work

Figure it out

Make it work means to find a way to succeed despite obstacles or imperfect circumstances.

The phrase implies resourcefulness and determination—figuring out solutions with whatever is available: We don't have much budget, but we'll make it work.

Often used as an imperative or declaration of intent: Just make it work.

The phrase gained cultural currency from fashion mentor Tim Gunn's catchphrase on *Project Runway*, encouraging designers to solve problems creatively under pressure.

Related

keep pushing · improvise · adapt · persist · effort · determination · grind · push · struggle · overcome · do or die · whatever it takes · pull it off · manage · handle · juggle · pivot · think outside the box

Categories
Opposites
persistence and determination

make it workgive up

Stop attempting something

quit · throw in the towel · surrender · abandon · walk away

resourcefulness and problem-solving

make it workmake excuses

Give self-serving explanations

outcome achievement

make it workbreak it

Cause something to fracture

accept defeat · fumble

Family

make, makes, made, making, maker, makers, work, works, worked

Familiarity
Top 50,000
Profile
Known to kids · Used worldwide · Timeless · Positive · Everyday, not technical · Rated G