Read
A large vocabulary is a key part of being an articulate writer, and reading is one of the best ways to expand your word knowledge. Reading a wide range of topics can help you learn both common and uncommon words, as well as see these words put into context by writers with diverse backgrounds.
Listen
When you hear a new word, listen to the pronunciation and meaning. You may also want to look up the spelling if it is not familiar to you. Aim to learn a few words a week and add them to your running list.
Spend your commute listening to English podcasts or talk radio, which will expose you to many different topics and new vocabulary words. Magazines about your interests, like sports, interior decorating or gardening, are also great for reading new words.
Write
The words you learn through reading and listening will only be useful if you can use them in your own writing. Writing is a great way to practice, and it can be much easier than expanding your spoken vocabulary, as writing gives you time to think and a backspace button.
Writing can also help you expand your vocabulary by association. It’s often easier to remember words that sound similar, and you can use a thesaurus or online dictionary to help you find synonyms that are more relevant to your writing.
Play Word Games
Playing games is a great way to practice and learn vocabulary. Various word games can be found online that provide learning opportunities for learners of all ages and abilities. Many of these games are portable and low-cost, making them a convenient choice for students on the go.
One of the most popular word games is Go Fish, which teaches new words with the help of cards. Each player has a set of word cards matching their vocabulary level. The players roll a dice, and each time they get the number on the dice, they turn up one of the word cards.
