How to Master Learning New Words
Why Vocabulary Matters
Learning a language is like building with LEGO blocks. To express yourself clearly, you need different pieces—words. The more words you know, the easier it becomes to communicate, whether verbally or in writing. A weak vocabulary can make conversations frustrating, causing hesitation and even embarrassment.
Fun Fact: Did you know that Shakespeare invented over 1,700 words? Many of them, like "bedroom" and "fashionable," are still in use today!
How to Improve Your Vocabulary Naturally
1. Read Every Day
Reading is the easiest way to grow your vocabulary. Whether it’s fiction, self-help books, or articles, reading exposes you to new words in context. When you come across an unfamiliar word, take a moment to look up its meaning. Over time, this habit will expand your vocabulary effortlessly.
Even reading for just 10 minutes a day can introduce you to several new words. The key is to focus on understanding rather than memorizing. Pick material that interests you, so you stay engaged.
Interesting Fact: The average adult English speaker knows between 20,000 and 35,000 words!
2. Watch and Listen
If reading isn't your thing, try watching movies, TV shows, or even YouTube videos. Listening to native speakers helps you learn how words are used naturally. Subtitles can be a great aid, especially when watching content in a foreign language.
Try pausing when you hear a new word, note it down, and look it up later. Over time, you’ll start recognizing words and using them in conversations without even realizing it.
Did You Know? Watching movies with subtitles can improve your vocabulary up to 17% faster than watching without them.
3. Use AI and Apps
Scrolla AI is an e-reader app that lets you bring your content and helps explain each word in plain language. You can read PDFs, ePubs, and even take screenshots of books to read them with a user-friendly UI. AI-powered tools like Scrolla make it easy to learn words on the go. If you’re reading a book or article, an AI e-reader can instantly explain words you don’t understand. Language-learning apps also provide daily vocabulary exercises, making learning more interactive and fun. Download Scrolla AI iOS app from the home page.
4. Play Word Games
Games are a fun way to expand your vocabulary without feeling like you're studying. Apps like Scrabble, Wordle, and crossword puzzles challenge you to think of new words and their meanings. Flashcard-based games can also help reinforce new words. Engaging in these games regularly helps you retain vocabulary more effectively.
Fun Challenge: Try playing a word game daily for a month—you might be surprised how many new words you pick up!
5. Practice and Use New Words
The best way to remember new words is to use them. Try writing sentences or speaking them in daily conversations. You can even challenge yourself to use a new word every day in a message or post.
Pro Tip: Keep a vocabulary journal and write down new words along with their meanings and example sentences.
Final Thoughts
Improving your vocabulary doesn’t have to feel like studying. Read, watch, listen, play, and practice naturally. Over time, you’ll notice a big difference in your communication skills. Keep learning, and soon, words will come to you effortlessly!