How to use this lesson: read each item aloud, notice the collocation, cover the definition and retrieve the word from memory. Then use at least three items in your own sentences.
10 useful words and phrases
relationship
The connection between two people.
Example: They have a close working relationship.
Natural collocation: build a relationship
trust
Belief that someone is honest or reliable.
Example: Trust takes time to build.
Natural collocation: earn trust
boundary
A limit that protects personal needs or behaviour.
Example: It is important to communicate your boundaries.
Natural collocation: set boundaries
support
Help or encouragement given to someone.
Example: Her friends gave her a lot of support.
Natural collocation: emotional support
conflict
A serious disagreement.
Example: They resolved the conflict calmly.
Natural collocation: avoid conflict
compromise
An agreement where each side accepts less than it wanted.
Example: We reached a compromise.
Natural collocation: find a compromise
apologise
To say that you are sorry.
Example: He apologised for arriving late.
Natural collocation: apologise sincerely
forgive
To stop feeling angry about someone’s mistake.
Example: It can take time to forgive someone.
Natural collocation: forgive a mistake
socialise
To spend time with other people socially.
Example: We socialise with colleagues after work.
Natural collocation: socialise with friends
invite
To ask someone to come to an event or place.
Example: We invited them to dinner.
Natural collocation: invite someone over
Quick vocabulary check
- 1. Which word means “the connection between two people”? relationship
- 2. Which word means “belief that someone is honest or reliable”? trust
- 3. Which word means “a limit that protects personal needs or behaviour”? boundary
- 4. Which word means “help or encouragement given to someone”? support
- 5. Which word means “a serious disagreement”? conflict
Make the vocabulary active
Choose five items above and make them personal. Say one true sentence about your life, work, studies or experience for each item. For stronger recall, return tomorrow and try to reproduce the collocations without looking.