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English Vocabulary

Published on July 10, 2022 | Updated on July 7, 2024

The English language boasts an extensive vocabulary, encompassing approximately 250,000 distinct words and triple that number when considering the various meanings attributed to these words.

Despite this linguistic richness, English educators often emphasize that proficiency in the top 3,000 most frequently used words grants a substantial 90 to 95% understanding of English literature, newspapers, films, and everyday conversations.

One of the most effective ways to prioritize your English vocabulary studies is to start with the most common words.


Table of Contents


Why Should we Build our English Vocabulary

Learning vocabulary is an essential aspect of mastering the English language. It enables us to communicate effectively, understand and express complex ideas, and read and write with fluency and comprehension.

Building our English vocabulary:

  • A wide vocabulary allows us to express ourselves clearly and effectively, making it easier for others to understand us.
  • It also allows us to understand others better, as we are able to comprehend the words and phrases they use.
  • A strong vocabulary can help us to understand written materials such as books, newspapers, and articles.
  • A large vocabulary allows us to understand and use words more precisely, which can help us to express complex ideas and to analyze and evaluate information.

Why do People Forget New Vocabulary?

The ease with which we forget new vocabulary can vary from person to person and is influenced by several factors. Some common reasons for forgetting new words include:

  1. Lack of Repetition: If you don’t encounter or use a new word frequently, it’s more likely to fade from your memory.
  2. Contextual Relevance: Words that are not tied to a specific context or personal experience may be harder to remember.
  3. Active Usage: Regularly incorporating new words into your conversations or writing helps reinforce them in your memory.
  4. Learning Method: The effectiveness of the learning method employed can impact how well you retain new vocabulary. Techniques such as flashcards, mnemonic devices, or immersive experiences can enhance retention.
  5. Interest and Motivation: Your interest in the subject matter and motivation to learn can influence how well you remember new words.
  6. Age: Younger individuals often find it easier to retain new information, including vocabulary, compared to older individuals.

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