Learning English vocabulary
Are you learning a lot of vocabulary but can't use it effectively? There may be several reasons for this, but the most common one is trying to remember the translation of a single word without any context. ⠀
Let's take a look at the step-by-step instructions on how to learn new vocabulary correctly. ⠀
1. Pronunciation. Never learn vocabulary without pronouncing it. Compare learning a foreign language with mastering your native one. The first thing we remember when we learn our native language is the pronunciation of words. If you're unsure about pronunciation, check yourself with an online dictionary such as the Cambridge Dictionary or Collins Dictionary, where you can listen to the pronunciation of a word or even an example sentence with it. ⠀
2️. Meaning. Don’t try to learn all the translation options at once; it will be more effective to focus on the contextual meaning and consolidate it in practice. ⠀
3️. Dependent prepositions. A lot of verbs and adjectives in English have dependent prepositions that are not explained by the rules; they need to be remembered, for example, wait for, different from/to. ⠀
4. Colligation. Grammar aspects to take into account, for example feedback is an uncountable noun so it does not have a plural form, spend time doing – the verb spend requires a gerund after it.
5. Collocations. A combination of two or more words that together form a stable phrase, for example, solve a problem, striking similarities, a heavy smoker. ⠀
6. Derivatives. Try to remember other parts of speech that are derived from the word you are learning now, or try to experiment and form other parts of speech yourself. For example, if you are learning the verb combine, how about forming a noun? Combination. Resign – resignation, aspire – aspiration, etc. ⠀
7. Synonyms and antonyms. It is very useful to remember the synonyms and antonyms you already know for the word you are learning, because this will not only contribute to better memorization of new vocabulary, but will also help refresh previously learned vocabulary. ⠀
8. Register. The level of formality determined by the context and communication situation. Compare, as soon as possible and at your earliest convenience. Which of these phrases do you think is likely to be used in formal communication?
9. Practical Application. Memorizing a word is not enough – you need to use it actively. Try creating your sentences, keeping a journal in English, or incorporating new vocabulary into your conversations and written communication. Another effective method is the shadowing technique – repeating after native speakers in videos or podcasts.
10. Associative Thinking. To better remember new words, create visual or situational associations. For example, for the word serene (calm, peaceful), you can imagine a quiet sea or a picturesque sunset. The more vivid the image or emotion, the better the word will stick in your memory.
11. Regular Repetition. Use a spaced repetition system (SRS), such as the Quizlet app. New words are better remembered when reviewed at specific intervals: the first day, the third day, in a week, and in a month. This helps prevent quick forgetting.
Apply these tips and methods, and your vocabulary learning process will become much more effective!
Have productive studies!
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