Everyone who uses the English language, from toddlers beginning to speak their first few words, to immigrants learning English as a second language, to veteran journalists and English language instructors know the importance of a comprehensive vocabulary that one can readily draw upon in the midst of writing or conversation. Sometimes, the difficulty is in not being able to find the right word that describes a situation, feeling or action. At other times, we realize that we do not know that particular word at all. It can also be frustrating to read a magazine article or book and come across words whose meaning we do not know. After all, knowledge of language can be considered as power in a way. Building a vocabulary that addresses our reading and self-expression can be a powerful tool for everyone: ordinary person, writer, scholar, or keynote speaker. Below are simple tips that can enhance a person's vocabulary:
• Read books, journals, magazines and newspapers that uses a vocabulary which challenge you. Seek out new words actively and double check for words that you may have simply overlooked in your previous readings. Write all these words in a piece of paper and allot three columns: the first to list the word, the second to list down a synonym or definition, and the third to write a simple sentence using the world. Have this paper handy wherever you go. During a lull or break in your day, study the paper and read it over and over again to familiarize yourself with the words, its meaning and appropriate usage.
• Use every tool that can help you build your vocabulary muscles such as newspaper or magazine articles that explore the meaning of words and phrases, dictionary and board games that let you use your creativity, and the every handy thesaurus that you can consult when you want to find just the exact word that would fit what you want to say.
