Introduction:
Learning new English words faster is indeed a challenging task for non-native speakers of English but it can be made enjoyable easily. This is already proven that if any task is interesting enough to do, then learning takes place naturally. One must apply strategies that can make learning new vocabulary fun and effective. In this blog post, I’ll share 10 proven ways to learn new English words faster, with examples and tips helpful for all learners. Let’s dive in!
1. Read as much as possible
This has proved to be one of the best ways to grasp new words. Get your hands on all types of reading material suitable to your level. It can range from blogs, novels, newspapers, to even reading posters and hoardings on the road. This approach helps in getting you exposed to new words and you can learn them, in proper context. Remember, that only reading words may not be as helpful as using them would be. The more you use them, the better would be your English level.
How to get started:
- Pick English newspapers, for example, if you’re reading an article about elections, you’ll come across words like “poll” “democracy,” and “constituency.” These are easy to remember because they relate to something familiar.
- Choose novels by authors who write stories that include cultural contexts you can easily connect with. Initially, you may not find reading novels interesting but as your understanding develops, you’ll start enjoying them and learning from them.
Pro Tip:
Underline the words which are unfamiliar, while reading. Later, use a dictionary or an app to get their meaning and usage.
2. Use Flashcards
Learning through flashcards is an old yet effective way to boost vocabulary. On flashcards, word is written on one side and its meaning on the other side. In some cased, you may see the meaning and example written on the same side as well. It is better to mention example with the meaning.
How to make it effective:
You can even refer to some popular as to learn from flashcards. For instance, if you’re learning the word “meticulous,” your card could say:
Word: Meticulous
Meaning: Showing great attention to detail
Example: The bride’s family was meticulous in planning the wedding.
Pro Tip:
In this technique, generally people forget words after some time. For better retention, it is crucial to keep revising the word and use it over and over again. Do not insist on learning too many words everyday, set a small target which can be achieved easily.
3. Watch English Movies and Shows
Learning new English words and expressions by watching movies and shows is a fun way to learn new vocabulary. I have learnt many good expressions by using this technique and it works wonders. It not only helps in learning vocabulary but also helps in learning intonation. Make sure to keep the subtitles on, so that, you understand the speech well. To make the process enjoyable, watch movies or dramas of different genre but choose them wisely, so they match with your level of English.
What to watch:
- You can start with show which use simple English mixed with Hindi, which makes it easier for you to understand the word fully.
- Watch Hollywood movies with subtitles. Pick words which can be used in everyday conversations.
Pro Tip:
While watching movies or shows when you hear an interesting or new word, pause and note down. Later, look up the word in the dictionary to get full details. Also, use it in your conversation, wherever possible.
4. Practice Contextual Learning
Make it a habit to always learn words in the proper context. This ensures better understanding and retention.
How to practice:
- Make sentences that can relate to your life, habits, incidences etc. For instance, if you learn the word “procrastinate,” you can say, “I tend to procrastinate when it comes to studying for exams.” Making sentences related to your regular life can be most helpful in recalling those words when you need them.
- Use cultural contexts to be able to relate easily. For example, “The festival was a grand event with colourful decorations and traditional music.”
Pro Tip:
At times, it is difficult to find the context in which the new words can be used. Based on my experience, I would suggest that you start small and, in the beginning, learn only those words which you think can be used many times in day-to-day conversations.
5. Play Word Games
Word games like scrabble or crossword also are effective tools to enhance vocabulary, in a short time. Start with easy words and as you start enjoying, you can try making some uncommon words. Try to know the meaning of the new words you come across, while playing.
What to try:
- Many apps offer these games, nowadays. These games challenge you to form words from random letters.
- Play with friends or family. For example, have a friendly Scrabble match on a holiday.
Pro Tip:
Never forget to note down the new words you learn while playing such games. Writing imprints yor brain and your retention improves.
6. Engage in Conversations
When we have conversations in many different situations, we get opportunities to learn and vocabulary as well. In the beginning, mistakes will happen but it would strengthen your knowledge and application. Embrace the learning process. If you have frequent conversations, you’ll realize that your vocabulary level would go up within the first month of practice.
How to practice:
- For this purpose, join English-speaking clubs or concerned groups in your area. Many cities organize meet ups for English learners. Join them or you can create one with your friends or like-minded people.
- Practice with friends or colleagues. For example, if you’re discussing cricket, use words like “pitch,” “strategy,” or “victory.”
Pro Tip:
Many new learners struggle to speak with others and they have nervousness Never be afraid of making mistakes. It’s a part of the learning process and grab every opportunity to use new words in conversations.
7. Keep a Vocabulary Journal
Always keep a dedicated notebook or diary for writing details of every new word you learn. rite all the details related to the word and that too, in simple words. It helps you review them regularly. Try using these words as many times as possible because repeated usage will ensure that you remember them for a long time.
How to use it:
Divide your journal into sections: nouns, verbs, adjectives, idioms, etc.
Write the word, its meaning, an example sentence, and even a drawing if it helps you remember.
For instance:
Word: Jubilant
Meaning: Extremely happy
Example: The Indian cricket team was jubilant after winning the match.
Pro Tip:
Review your journal, every now and then, to revise your learning.
8. Learn Word Roots, Prefixes, and Suffixes
Understanding how words are formed, based on their structure, helps you remember them easily. This makes word formation easy. Also, you can guess the meaning of the word easily by knowing the root.
Examples:
- Root: “Bio” means life (e.g., biology, biography).
- Prefix: “Un” means not (e.g., unhappy, uncertain).
- Suffix: “-ful” means full of (e.g., joyful, beautiful).
Pro Tip:
Sometimes, it is difficult to find the roots. Create a chart of common roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Stick it close to your place of study for quick reference. With regular practice, your understanding will get better and you’ll be able to break down the words to get to the root.
9. Use Technology to Your Advantage
Using technology to help you in your learning journey can be quite cost-effective and impactful. You can download relevant apps or refer to YouTube channels, in order to get the required help.
Pro Tip:
Set daily goals for learning new vocabulary and use it, as much as possible. For example, aim to learn five new words every day.
10. Overcome Common Challenges
In your learning process, you may come across many challenges. Let’s discuss a few:
Challenge 1: Forgetting Words Quickly
Solution: Review words regularly using spaced repetition. For example, revise words after 1 day, 3 days, and then a week.
Challenge 2: Difficulty in Pronunciation
Solution: Use pronunciation tools for better understanding. Also, practice them as much as possible. For instance, if you’re unsure how to say “quintessential,” listen to its pronunciation multiple times.
Challenge 3: Lack of Practice Opportunities
Solution: Opportunities need to be created. If the need arises, start messaging in English or write your posts on social media in English.
Conclusion:
Expanding vocabulary must be a natural process. The more effortless it is, the better would be the retention. Also, make it enjoyable by trying different techniques and see which one works best for you. Also, remain consistent! Initially, learn those words which can be used in many situations and contexts.
So, what are you waiting for? Pick one strategy from this list and start today. Let’s grow our English skills together!
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