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
synonym
A word with the same or a similar meaning.
Example: “Large” is a synonym of “big”.
Natural collocation: close synonym
antonym
A word with the opposite meaning.
Example: “Cheap” is an antonym of “expensive”.
Natural collocation: common antonym
expression
A word or group of words used in a particular way.
Example: It is a useful everyday expression.
Natural collocation: fixed expression
fluency
The ability to speak smoothly and easily.
Example: Regular practice helps build fluency.
Natural collocation: speaking fluency
accurate
Correct and without mistakes.
Example: Try to be accurate before you try to speak faster.
Natural collocation: grammatically accurate
natural
Typical of how fluent speakers use the language.
Example: This version sounds more natural.
Natural collocation: sound natural
register
The level of formality used in language.
Example: Choose a register that suits the situation.
Natural collocation: formal register
context
The situation that helps explain the meaning of something.
Example: Try to learn new words in context.
Natural collocation: in context
phrase
A small group of words used together.
Example: Write down the whole phrase, not only one word.
Natural collocation: useful phrase
meaning
The idea expressed by a word or expression.
Example: Check the meaning before using the word.
Natural collocation: precise meaning
Quick vocabulary check
- 1. Which word means “a word with the same or a similar meaning”? synonym
- 2. Which word means “a word with the opposite meaning”? antonym
- 3. Which word means “a word or group of words used in a particular way”? expression
- 4. Which word means “the ability to speak smoothly and easily”? fluency
- 5. Which word means “correct and without mistakes”? accurate
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.