Learn Vocabulary Better and Faster
If you find that you're proficient at learning the definition of new words, but struggle to use them naturally in conversation, you're not alone. As you transition from a beginner language learner to an advanced English speaker, it's important to evolve your learning methods as well.
Many English learners get stuck in the academic style of learning vocabulary through memorization. While this method can be effective for passing tests in the beginning stages of language learning, it's not as effective when it comes to real-life communication.
As you advance in your language development, it's crucial to focus on not just learning the meaning of a word, but also learning how to use it in context. To help you build your vocabulary, apply the following process into your language learning routine:
1) How to Find Advanced Vocabulary
The initial step in building your vocabulary is to identify words that are relevant to your life and work. This can be achieved by paying attention to the words used in articles, post captions, or any other reading material that you find interesting.
Look for words that are new to you or words you know but don't know how to use in context. By focusing on words that are pertinent to your interests and goals, you can ensure that you are learning words that will be useful to you in the long run.
2) How to Use New Words with Correct Grammar
I often observe my advanced learners encountering difficulties in incorporating new words into their speech in the appropriate grammatical structure. One effective strategy for learning how to use new words correctly is to read examples of sentences that contain the new word and analyze the grammar used.
A simple way to access a variety of examples is to look up "sentences with [new word]." For example, searching “neglect” will show you the definition while searching "sentences with neglect" will show you a larger variety of examples that can provide insight on how to correctly use the word in different contexts.
Additionally, there are a number of websites that provide sentence examples for a variety of words, which can also be a useful resource for this activity:
3) How to Learn How People Use Words in Real Life
If you know me, you probably already know that I’m a big fan of YouGlish, a website that allows you to search for a word and then access hundreds or thousands of video clips from YouTube of people using the word in different contexts. You can select the accent you want to hear (U.S./U.K./Australian) and this can be particularly helpful in improving your pronunciation.
Watching a few video clips and paying attention to the context can provide valuable insight into grammar usage and help you improve your pronunciation by listening to full sentences and connected speech patterns, rather than just individual words.
Here’s an example of neglect being used with an American accent: youglish.com/neglect/english/us.
Additionally, you can use this tool to learn idioms and other expressions, not just individual words.
4) How to Use New Words in Your Daily Life
Once you've understood the meaning, grammar, and real-life usage of your new word, it's time to take the next step: creating your own personal sentences using the new word. Make these examples as specific and personal as possible, so you can easily visualize the situation you're describing as you say the sentences out loud.
For example, using the word "neglect" in personal sentences could be:
After the merger, I feel like we've been neglecting some of our clients because we're so overwhelmed.
Since we had our second baby, I feel like we've neglected our other child a bit.
Creating personal examples and visualizing yourself using the new word helps you focus on using the vocabulary in real situations, rather than worrying about making mistakes with the language. The final step is to actually use the new word in your real life, which is where making personal examples that are relevant comes in handy. By scripting a way to introduce new words into your spoken English, you'll be able to boost your confidence by hearing yourself use more advanced vocabulary.
It's important to remember that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process, so don't let them discourage you. Keep going and keep learning.
5) Bonus: Make Virtual Flashcards
I highly recommend using Quizlet to make virtual flashcards. The free app also allows you to study your flashcards on your phone anytime and anywhere.
The sound feature also enables you to practice your pronunciation, and the built-in games make learning more interactive and enjoyable, making it a great tool to help you retain new words and improve your language skills on the go.
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