Read, read, and read some more.
The more you read – particularly novels, but also magazines and newspapers – the more words you’ll pick up. As you read and come across new words, try to deduce the meaning from the sentence and look up the definition in a dictionary. Make a list of new words. Your vocabulary will soar.
Keep a dictionary and thesaurus close at hand.
Use whichever format you prefer: print, software, or online. A good dictionary is a hundred times better than Google Translate, and electronic dictionaries are faster! When you come across a new word, look it up in the dictionary to learn its pronunciation as well as its meaning (s). Then, go to the thesaurus and look up similar words and phrases – as well as their synonyms.
Create your own dictionary.
It’s a good idea to jot down any new words you come across. Simply writing them down will help you recognise the words when you read. Keeping a dictionary of all your new words will also give you the confidence to learn even more words, especially when you can see how many new words you’ve already learned.
Every day, learn a new word.
Using a word-of-the-day calendar, a website, or creating your own list of words to learn. Many people use this technique to learn new words. Don’t feel obligated to learn a new word every day.
Play some video games.
Word games that challenge you and help you discover new meanings and words are an excellent way to increase your vocabulary. Crossword puzzles, anagrams, word jumbles, Scrabble, and Boggle are a few examples.
Participate in discussions.
Simply conversing with others can help you learn new words. When you hear a new word, remember to jot it down so you can study it later – and then gradually add the new word to your vocabulary.
