So, you have decided to learn a language. Got the books, you started reading, but here is a catch! Most of the time you are fumbling for words. There are times, I am speaking to someone (or trying to ) and I end up speaking some words in English. I too have been in that situation in my initial stages.
If only I remember what to say challenges in French ( défi ) but Alas!
My A1 teacher used to say, ‘’by the end of A1, you should know 5000 words ‘’. Well, I did, but how, going to write in another blog.
Technically, words are the soul of a language, the amount of words you know shows your language skills. Ok, so you got me, some are written languages too. Relatively, both words are Speaking, writing, and Language learning are deeply interconnected
The question is how do I improve my vocabulary?
–Read, Read, and Read Remember the pre-schoolers, we always ask them to look out for big bold letters in newspapers and magazines, Do the Same Guys, look out for new words and phrases in Papers, and magazines.
I am an avid reader myself, and believe me we learn more about words and their meanings when we see them in context. Keep your Thesaurus or Dictionary handy.
Go, Grab that book!
–Using words in sentences not only new words learning are important but using them in a sentence is also equally important. Scientifically, u should use the newly learned word minimum of 10-12 times to print in your long-term memory.
I learned halten today. In german, I can use it in my daily life as Der Bus
hält am Bahnhof.
–Flashcards, Stick notes are Probably pretty old but useful techniques in Language learning.
Everyone learns in his manner, some are visual learners, some are auditory, and some are tactical. Use your colorful cards to learn vocabulary or stick new words on each item.
When I was learning German, there was a sticky note on the chair, microwave, and bathroom mirror too!
–Visualization and Mindmaps Talking about Deutsch, each noun has an article, and then come to those phrases, Wie kann ich das schaffen?
Visualize Der Mann(man), with DER , I would visualize all months, seasons, days of the week, and yeah man’s best friend all cars brand…
The crazier the stories and caricatures, the better it will be!
–Play word games or quiz Bet you have played Scrabble or did you tried Kahoot?. How about playing it all over in the language you are learning? Just bend the rules, here you can use all words, be it nouns, verbs adjectives, or pronouns.
Watch movies, news or videos : Watching movies with subtitles, Listening to language podcasts, especially those designed for learners, can help you pick up new vocabulary and understand its usage in different contexts.
Join Language Exchange Groups: Language exchange groups or partners can provide a safe space to practice your language skills. Conversing regularly helps you learn new words and understand how they’re used in everyday speech.
Hold it, the rules are applicable only in starting stage.
With everything online, take the help of Apps and websites, to learn a word everyday and incorporate that word in your daily life sentences.
Improving your vocabulary is a vital step in mastering any language. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can build a rich and diverse vocabulary that will enhance your ability to communicate effectively. Remember, language learning is a journey, and expanding your vocabulary is a continuous process that requires dedication, practice, and a sense of curiosity. So, immerse yourself in the language, stay consistent, and enjoy the process of learning and discovery!
What we learn with pleasure we never forget.”
– Alfredy Mercier
