Learn English Vocabulary


So you want to learn English vocabulary? Great!
Now, where do you start?

Click Here for Step-by-Step Rules, Stories and Exercises to Practice All English Tenses

Click Here for Step-by-Step Rules, Stories and Exercises to Practice All Tenses


What is Vocabulary?

Vocabulary

Vocabulary means "all the words you know and use". It can also mean "all the words that exist in a language".

The word "vocabulary" came to English in the 16th century. It came from the Latin word vocabulum which means "name."

This actually makes sense because vocabulary is the names that we gives to things.

If you don't know the name of a certain object, then when other people say it, you won't know what they mean to say.

It also works the other way around. When you use a name for something that others don't know – they won't understand what you mean to say.

The conclusion? You should get familiar with the commonly used words around you and understand them. You should also find out the true meanings of the less common words, so that you will know exactly what they mean.


Why is Vocabulary Important?

It is very important if you want to communicate with other people!

Do you want to say something, read something, listen to something, be something?

Then you need to have a great vocabulary. That is the bottom line of the story.

However, there are types of vocabulary, and some may be more important to you, while others will be less important to you.

Types of vocabulary
Types of Vocabulary

To make things simple, we can divide English vocabulary into several main groups:
  1. Basic/common vocabulary
    This means the most common words of the language. The words that you will encounter most of the time.

  2. Advanced vocabulary
    These words are less common, but are very important. They are important because people use them in everyday life and writing.

  3. Special Purpose vocabulary
    These words are used in a certain filed or activity. For example, medical vocabulary, business vocabulary, etc.
    You must know it well and be able to use it, if you are in this field.


Increasing Vocabulary

Increasing vocabulary

If your level is BASIC – visit the English Short Stories section.
There you can learn the most simple and common English words.

Also, visit the Vocabulary Flashcards and Vocabulary Exercise sections to practice.

If you are a more advanced learner, and are familiar with most of the common words, visit the Learn English Video section. It has video lessons to help you build your vocabulary.

In addition, it is highly recommended that you read these vocabulary articles. They will help learn English vocabulary much more effectively:

Building Vocabulary and Some Common Mistakes

How to Study Vocabulary Words

Activities for Teaching Vocabulary: How Can You Teach (or Learn) New Words?

The Best English Dictionary
Vocabulary Sentences and Examples: How and When to Use a Word?

Vocabulary Websites (Word Lists)

Character Traits Worksheets


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