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Grammar fix

make a reservation

book (a table, room, ticket, etc.)

To arrange in advance to have a seat, room, table, or ticket kept for you at a restaurant, hotel, or event.

collocationB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • I need to make a reservation for dinner tonight.daily life
  • When I travel, I always make a reservation in advance to avoid any problems with accommodation.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: make a reservation (for [something]) (at [place])

WrongI'd like to make a reservation for two persons.

RightI'd like to make a reservation for two.

'For two' already means two people — don't add 'persons'.

Patternmake a reservation (for [something]) (at [place])

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff I wish to secure a reservation for a table for two.

Natural Can I book a table for two?

In speech natives often just say 'book'; 'secure a reservation' is hotel-formal.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • make a reservation
    makea reservation forbook a tablecancel

Don't confuse it

Similar to 'book,' but 'make a reservation' is more common for restaurants and hotels, while 'book' is often used for tickets and travel.

Try it in Daily Speak →