How to Build Your Vocabulary
When learning a new language, students often ask me , “Teacher, how can I get better fast?” My answer is usually the same: read!
I suggest this as a way to improve your language because when you read, you can go at your own pace, you can re-read sentences you don’t understand, you can see the grammar that you’ve learned and how to use it in context, and you can learn new words. You will never find an article, book or blog post where you know every single word used—and that’s okay!
When learning new vocabulary, it’s important to remember that words can change meaning depending on the context in which they are used. For example, when you look at these two sentences, can you see the difference between them?
Many people believe that bats are scary because they have bony wings and sharp teeth.
We went on a baseball camp but the coach forgot to bring the bats, so we have to play soccer!
In the first sentence, the word ‘bats’ refers to a kind of animal that is nocturnal (it is active at night and sleeps in the day). In the second sentence, the word refers to a kind of sports equipment used to hit balls. The words may have the same spelling and pronunciation, but they do not have the same definition. Words like these are called homonyms, and it’s a good idea to remember that they exist when you learn new vocabulary.
How to build vocabulary: some tips to expand your word bank
There are many ways to improve your vocabulary outside of reading. We are exposed to English everyday through social media and pop culture, so you can easily pick up new words and expressions.
Watching TV series or movies in English is a great way to see how the language is used in everyday settings (such as conversations with friends, colleagues, or the cashier at the grocery store). If you want to learn more impressive words—or words better suited to professional environments—you could try watching the news or listening to podcasts. These activities provide excellent opportunities to expand your word bank with vocabulary for specific contexts. These situations include talking about finance and the economy, discussing politics, or commenting on social issues.
When you hear or see a new word, write it down in a vocabulary journal. Remember to look for homonyms, synonyms and antonyms, as these can help you use the word correctly.
Writing words down can help you to remember them better, but here are some other ways that could help you:
Create flashcards.
Use word maps.
Practise storytelling.
Use vocabulary journals.
Create flashcards
Flashcards are small cards used to improve and test your memory. Write your new vocabulary word on one side of the card, then flip it over and write the definition of the word and an example sentence using the word. See if you can memorise the definition before checking the answer on the other side. Here is an easy-to-use template you can edit and use.
Use word maps
A word map is a visual way to learn a new word. Write the vocabulary in the center and then write the definition, synonyms, antonyms and examples as the branches on the map. Here is an example and template that you can use.
Practise storytelling
It is not always enough to understand a new word’s technical definition. Context is very important, so try to write a shot story using the word. This can be a diary or personal journal entry, a text to a friend, or even an email to your colleague. Check for synonyms to make sure you are using the word or expression correctly.
Use vocabulary journals
As mentioned previously, when you hear or read a new word, write it down in a vocabulary journal to help remember the word. This could be done in your personal journal, your work planner, or a dedicated notebook where you keep all your new words. Here is a template, if you wish to start a new journal.
Learning new vocabulary can help you in everyday life, at home, at work and when travelling. You use vocabulary to express yourself when you speak and write, and you use it to understand when reading and listening. It’s safe to say that it is a vital part of the language learning journey. So, now you know what to do to improve your vocabulary, and you have the resources to do it!
Happy learning!
