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Tips For Activating Your Passive Vocabulary

Are you familiar with many words when reading but find it challenging to use them in real-life conversations? Don’t worry, you're not alone. This is a common challenge among second language learners. Read this blog to learn how you can expand your active vocabulary.


ENGin student meditate to Activating his  Passive Vocabulary

Active vs. Passive Vocabulary: What Is It?


Passive vocabulary consists of all the words you can understand, though you may not use them when speaking or writing. On the other hand, active vocabulary includes the words you use during communication.


We generally have a larger passive vocabulary, even in our native languages. Instead of feeling frustrated or upset about not using as many words as you'd like, you can be proud of your ability to understand a vast amount of vocabulary!


With this positive mindset, you can explore ways to expand your active vocabulary.


Identify Simple Words or Phrases You Overuse


Review your emails, messages, or recordings of yourself speaking to identify simple words or phrases you tend to overuse. While it’s perfectly fine to use them, they might not always convey the most precise meaning. For example, instead of "very big," consider using "huge," "enormous," or "tremendous.", instead of "interesting" — "fascinating", "engaging”, or “exciting”, instead of  “important” — “critical”, “essential”, or “significant” etc.


Learn synonyms for the words you overuse and understand the contexts in which these synonyms are most appropriately used. When speaking or writing, pay attention to moments when you're about to use these common words and make a conscious effort to replace them with more suitable synonyms.


Build the List of Words You Want to Activate


As you read, watch, or listen to English content, jot down the words you want to incorporate into your active vocabulary. Avoid the temptation to add too many words at once, as this can be overwhelming. Instead, keep your list short; for example, focus on about 10 words each week.


For each word, check its meanings, connotations, and usage in different contexts. For example, you can use Oxford or Cambridge dictionaries for this process.


Put Words into a Personalized Context


While dictionary examples are helpful, your goal is to use these words in ways that resonate with you. Create sentences or short paragraphs that incorporate these words into situations related to your interests, experiences, or daily activities. To make this activity both challenging and exciting, try writing short, meaningful stories that include several of the words you want to learn. This approach will not only boost your vocabulary but also your creativity!


Incorporate New Vocabulary in Writing and Conversation


To truly make new words a part of your everyday vocabulary, there's only one key: practice, practice, and practice some more. Here are several effective ways to achieve this:


  • Keep a Journal in English: Writing regularly not only benefits your mental health but also enhances your English skills. If you're unsure what to write about, utilize journal prompts from various websites for inspiration. For example, this one.


  • Use social media platforms to comment, post, and chat in English. These platforms are excellent for practicing new vocabulary. Additionally, consider joining ENGin Telegram Communities, where you can engage in discussions on topics that interest you.


  • Record Yourself Talking: At the end of each day, send yourself a voice message summarizing your day, or at the start, describe your tasks and challenges for the day ahead. Listening to these recordings can help you pinpoint areas for improvement.


  • Speak with a Language Buddy: Find a language partner who is also learning English or a native/advanced English speaker who can assist you in using a more diverse vocabulary. 


If you're Ukrainian, consider joining ENGin, a platform designed to connect Ukrainians with English speakers from around the world.


Integrate Words into Daily Life


Make the words you want to use a part of your everyday surroundings! Consider placing notes on your walls, creating wallpaper for your phone or laptop, or setting alerts and notifications to remind yourself to use your target words throughout the day. This constant exposure reinforces their presence in your mind and encourages active usage.


By taking small yet consistent steps, you can build a broad, active vocabulary. Good luck with your English journey!




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