Available vs. Make Available

Attribute	Available	Make Available
Definition	Something that is ready for use or can be obtained	To provide something for use or distribution
Activeness	Passive state of being ready or obtainable	Active process of providing something
Ownership	Can be owned by anyone	Usually owned by the provider
Responsibility	No specific responsibility to provide	Provider has the responsibility to make it available

When it comes to the terms "available" and "make available," there are subtle yet important differences in their meanings and implications. Understanding these nuances can help individuals and businesses communicate more effectively and make informed decisions. In this article, we will explore the attributes of both terms and how they are used in various contexts.

Definition

The term "available" generally refers to something that is ready for use or accessible to others. It implies that the item or service in question is present and can be utilized or obtained. On the other hand, "make available" specifically denotes the act of providing or offering something to others. It suggests a deliberate action taken to ensure that something is accessible or obtainable by others.

Usage

When something is described as "available," it simply means that it exists and can be accessed or used. For example, a product may be available for purchase at a store, indicating that it is in stock and ready for customers to buy. On the other hand, when something is said to be "made available," it implies a more proactive role in ensuring accessibility. This could involve actions such as publishing a report online for public viewing or setting up a system for booking appointments.

Implications

The distinction between "available" and "make available" lies in the level of agency and intentionality involved. While something may be available passively, without any deliberate effort on the part of the provider, making something available requires a conscious decision and action. This distinction can be crucial in contexts where accessibility and availability are key considerations, such as in customer service or information dissemination.

Accessibility

When something is described as "available," it may imply a general state of readiness or presence. For example, a library book may be available for borrowing if it is on the shelf and not checked out. On the other hand, when something is "made available," it suggests a more active role in ensuring that others can access it. This could involve steps such as digitizing a document for online access or providing multiple formats for different audiences.

Responsibility

Another key difference between "available" and "make available" is the sense of responsibility or ownership implied by each term. When something is available, it may simply be a statement of fact about its existence or presence. However, when something is made available, it suggests a deliberate effort on the part of the provider to ensure that others can benefit from it. This distinction can be important in contexts where accountability and transparency are valued.

Examples

To illustrate the difference between "available" and "make available," consider the following examples. A restaurant may have a menu available for customers to view, indicating that it is on hand and can be consulted. However, the restaurant may also make the menu available online for customers to access before visiting, demonstrating a proactive effort to provide information and enhance the customer experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the terms "available" and "make available" may seem similar at first glance, but they carry distinct meanings and implications. Understanding these nuances can help individuals and businesses communicate more effectively and make informed decisions about accessibility and availability. By recognizing the differences between these terms, we can ensure that information, resources, and services are provided in a way that meets the needs of others.