Have Something Done vs Have Someone Do

Understanding the Difference

When it comes to English grammar, the distinction between "having something done" and "having someone do" can be a little tricky. However, with the help of this comprehensive lesson by NJCLT, you'll be able to master these structures and use them confidently in your English sentences.

The Structure of "Have Something Done"

The structure of "have something done" is quite straightforward. It involves having someone else do a task or an action for you, typically involving a service or a skill. Let's take a closer look at an example:

Example: Yesterday, I had my car fixed by a professional mechanic.

In this example, the subject (I) is the person who requested the service, and the object (my car) is the thing that was being acted upon. The action verb (fixed) indicates the task that was performed.

The Structure of "Have Someone Do"

The structure of "have someone do" is slightly different. In this case, you want a specific person to perform the action for you. Let's see an example:

Example: I'm going to have Johnfix my car tomorrow.

In this example, the subject (I) still requests the action, but the object (John) refers to a specific person who will perform the task (fixing the car).

When to Use "Have Something Done"

The structure "have something done" is commonly used when you want to emphasize that someone else is doing the task or when the focus is on the action being performed rather than the person performing it. You can use this structure in various situations, including:

• Getting your hair cut at a salon
• Having your house cleaned by a professional
• Getting your documents translated by an expert

By using "have something done," you effectively communicate that you are not performing the task yourself, but instead, someone else is doing it for you.

When to Use "Have Someone Do"

The structure "have someone do" is used when you want to specify a particular person to accomplish the task. This structure is appropriate when you have a specific individual in mind who you trust to complete the action skillfully. Here are some instances where "have someone do" is commonly used:

• Having your favorite mechanic fix your car
• Having your trusted accountant handle your finances
• Having your skilled plumber repair the pipes

With "have someone do," you make it clear that you have a preferred person in mind for the task and want them specifically to complete it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

While these structures might seem simple, there are a few common mistakes that learners make when using "have something done" and "have someone do." Let's address them:

Using "Get" instead of "Have"

One common mistake is substituting "get" instead of "have" in these structures. While "get" can be used in colloquial speech, it is not grammatically correct when referring to actions performed by someone else. Always remember to use "have" instead.

Incorrect Placement of the Object

Another error is misplacing the object in the sentence. Make sure the thing or action being done is the object of the sentence and appears immediately after the verb. Placing it incorrectly can lead to confusion and incorrect usage.

Using the Wrong Verb Form

Using the wrong verb form in these structures is another common mistake. Always ensure that the verb is in the correct form (usually the base form) when using "have something done" or "have someone do."

Practice Makes Perfect

Now that you have a solid understanding of the difference between "having something done" and "having someone do," it's time to practice! Remember, the more you use these structures in context, the better you will become at utilizing them accurately.

By incorporating these structures into your English conversations and writing, you will enhance your language skills and convey your intended meaning more precisely. Keep practicing and soon you'll become a master of English grammar!

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the nuances between "have something done" and "have someone do" is crucial for effective communication in English. With this comprehensive lesson provided by NJCLT, you now have the knowledge and confidence to use these structures appropriately.

Whether you want to describe a task done by someone else or specify a particular person for an action, "have something done" and "have someone do" will serve as essential tools in your English vocabulary.

So, go ahead and incorporate these structures into your language practice to elevate your English fluency and accuracy!