Do Something vs. Have Something Done

Attribute	Do Something	Have Something Done
Subject	The doer of the action	The receiver of the action
Verb form	Active voice	Passive voice
Focus	On the doer of the action	On the action itself
Agency	The subject has control over the action	The subject is not in control of the action

Definition

Do Something and Have Something Done are two different ways of expressing actions in English. When we say "Do Something," we are talking about performing an action ourselves. For example, "I will do my homework." On the other hand, when we say "Have Something Done," we are talking about arranging for someone else to do something for us. For example, "I will have my car serviced."

Subject of the Action

One key difference between Do Something and Have Something Done is the subject of the action. When we use Do Something, the subject is the person who is performing the action. For example, "I will do the dishes." In contrast, when we use Have Something Done, the subject is the thing or person that is being acted upon. For example, "I will have my hair cut."

Agency

Another important distinction between Do Something and Have Something Done is the concept of agency. When we say "Do Something," we are taking responsibility for the action. We are actively choosing to perform the task ourselves. For example, "I will do the laundry." On the other hand, when we say "Have Something Done," we are delegating the task to someone else. We are not directly involved in the action. For example, "I will have my house cleaned."

Control

Control is another factor to consider when comparing Do Something and Have Something Done. When we Do Something, we have full control over how the action is carried out. We can decide when, where, and how to do the task. For example, "I will do the grocery shopping tomorrow." However, when we Have Something Done, we are relinquishing some control over the process. We are trusting someone else to complete the task according to their own methods. For example, "I will have my car repaired by a mechanic."

Responsibility

Responsibility is a key aspect to consider when using Do Something and Have Something Done. When we Do Something, we are taking on the responsibility for the outcome of the action. If something goes wrong, we are accountable for it. For example, "I will do the presentation for the team." On the other hand, when we Have Something Done, we are shifting the responsibility to the person or service provider carrying out the task. If there are any issues, they are responsible for resolving them. For example, "I will have my computer fixed by a technician."

Examples

• Do Something: "I will do the dishes after dinner."
• Have Something Done: "I will have my car washed this weekend."
• Do Something: "She will do her homework before going to bed."
• Have Something Done: "He will have his house painted next month."

Conclusion

In conclusion, Do Something and Have Something Done are two distinct ways of expressing actions in English. While Do Something involves performing an action ourselves and taking responsibility for it, Have Something Done involves arranging for someone else to do the task and shifting the responsibility to them. Both forms have their own advantages and considerations, depending on the context and the desired outcome. It is important to understand the differences between the two in order to use them effectively in communication.