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Which is correct/sounds more natural?

Example sentence:

He tries to make (a) space by shoving my bag away.

I found both options on Google.

wyc
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2 Answers2

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Both are acceptable but mean slightly different things. "To make a space" implies that a specific open area is being made for a specific purpose or object in a particular location. "To make space" is more vague and relaxed and denotes the creation of more available space in general. In some cases one is more appropriate than the other, and in other cases both would work. As a native speaker my ear has a preference for "to make space" so I'd prefer that form if there is overlap.

TypeIA
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    There is an implication of discreteness. 'A space' implies they are countable, like chairs or desks or parking spaces or something. 'Space' implies continuous space which isn't being counted, like in a park or on the ocean. – user1908704 Sep 12 '18 at 21:06
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    Also, "make a space" could imply that there currently isn't any space, while "make space" could imply adding more space to an existing space. – jaxad0127 Sep 12 '18 at 22:38
  • This is correct. Another way to think of it is to view "to make space" as a short version of "to make some space". – BradC Sep 13 '18 at 14:23
  • We usually say: "make some space", for a specific item. eg: Could you make some space for my rocking chair? – Vic Sep 24 '18 at 10:31
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I think it is probably more idiomatic to use:

make room (for someone or something):

to provide space for someone or something.

  • Make room for Sam. He needs a place to sit. Can you make room for this package?

(The Free Dictionary)

See also Google Books for make room, vs make space, make a space.