Vocabulary
Using the dictionary
The dictionary should be one of the books
most often used in your home.
Place the dictionary where you can find it
easily and use it often.
Place the dictionary where you usually do
your reading. You cam aslo instal one on
your computer
Do not postpone checking an unfamiliar
word.
Use a dictionary that is detailed enough
to contain more than just spellings. Your
dictionary should contain extensive defi-
nitions, word origins and notes on usage.
It is also a good idea to carry a pocket
dictionary with more concise definitions
wherever you go.
Get used to the idea of turning to your
dictionary often.
Crossword puzzles are an excellent way
puzzles that appear in your local daily or
weekly newspapers using your dictionary.
to develop your vocabulary. Do the puzzles that appear in your local daily or
weekly newspapers using your dictionary.
What a standard dictionary contains
alphabetical arrangement of words
Spellings
syllable divisions
pronunciation
stress placement
word origin
word class
meanings
usages
synonyms
antonyms
idioms and phrases
slang
abbreviations
tenses
British vs American spellings
numbers (singular/plural)
phonetic symbols
pictures ot instruments, implements,
objects, dresses, materials, fruits, auto-
mobiles, activities, occupations, sports,
etc.
names of persons, places, parts of the
body, etc.
maps
notes on numbers, grammar, word for-
mation, irregular verbs, letter-writing,
CVs, emails
collocations
register
language notes on articles, modal verbs,
phrasal verbs, writing, choice of words.
Vocabulary
Improving your vocabulary
Improving your vocabulary can greatly
increase your 1Q. In addition, improving your
vocabulary from an early age will help you to
become well informed.
There are many ways by which you can
improve on your vocabulary. Learning the
meanings of new words becomes easy when:
you know the roots of the words
you learn how prefixes and suffixes are
used to form new words;
you make use of your dictionary regularly
you can use the Internet to get new
ideas
you use the words you come across in sentences of your own
you learn the short form of long words.