'to do' or 'to make' a problem?

Question

Which word is more idiomatic with a problem, to do or to make?

I don't like to do/make problems for people.

Answer 1

To do problems isn't idiomatic, and when you use it, it carries a meaning of solving the (homework) problems. I don't think that's what you intended.

Make is better, but even more idiomatic are cause and create. This is supported by:

• Google Ngram's list of verbs commonly found before 'problems' (of course, you have to check the meaning; luckily problems, are more often solved than caused)

• the Online OXFORD Collocation Dictionary:

  bring, cause, create Success brings its own problems. Staff shortages cause problems for the organization.