Frontiers | Freud and collocation: a psychodynamic interpretation of ‘make’ and ‘do’ in English

April 1, 2026 - 09:31

A novel study applies Sigmund Freud’s foundational theories of the human psyche to a common linguistic puzzle: the often-confusing choice between the English verbs "make" and "do." This research proposes that our selection of these basic words may be unconsciously influenced by the psychodynamic conflict between primal desires and social conscience.

The investigation employs a qualitative conceptual analysis, interpreting the verbs through the lens of Freud's structural model. In this framework, the verb "make" is linked to the Id—the instinctual part of the mind driven by creativity, impulse, and the generation of something new. Conversely, "do" is associated with the Superego, representing duty, obligation, and the completion of tasks often imposed by social norms. The Ego, which mediates between these two forces, is reflected in the speaker's final linguistic choice during communication.

This interdisciplinary approach suggests that even our most mundane language patterns are not arbitrary. The frequent struggle learners face in mastering "make" and "do" may echo a deeper, unconscious negotiation between our instinctual drives and our need to adhere to societal expectations. The study opens new avenues for understanding the subtle ways cognitive and psychological processes shape everyday speech.