English Vocabulary
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English vocabulary is the set of words and expressions you can understand and use. The more words you own, and can recall at the right moment, the more freely you understand and express yourself in English.
Free vocabulary guides built around real situations, not long word lists. Each one gives you useful words and expressions in context, with examples you can start using straight away.
Everyday and social English
English for real situations
How to build your English vocabulary
- Learn words in context, not in isolation. A word inside a sentence or a real situation is far easier to remember than the same word on a list.
- Group words by topic. Travel, health, work: learning related words together builds a network your memory can hold on to.
- Use new words quickly, and out loud. Say them, write them in a sentence, or try them in a lesson. A word you use is a word you keep.
Reading new words is easy; using them in conversation is what makes them yours. Practise your new vocabulary out loud with an experienced native teacher in a free trial lesson, no credit card needed.
Frequently asked questions
Are these English vocabulary guides free?
Yes. Every vocabulary guide here is free to read and use, with explanations and examples. No account or payment is required.
What is the best way to learn English vocabulary?
Learn words in context and by topic, rather than memorising long lists. Meet a word in a real sentence, group it with related words, then use it quickly in speaking or writing so it sticks.
How many words do I need to know?
A few thousand common words cover most everyday English. Instead of chasing a number, focus on the words that come up in the situations you actually use English for, such as travel, work or health.
How can I remember new words for longer?
Use them. Say a new word out loud, write it in your own sentence, and come back to it a few days later. Words you use and revisit move into long-term memory; words you only read tend to fade.
Key takeaways
- Vocabulary grows fastest when you learn words in context, not from long lists.
- Group words by topic, such as travel, health or finance, so they are easier to recall.
- Use new words quickly and out loud; a word you use is a word you keep.
- Every guide here is free, with clear examples you can start using right away.
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Written and reviewed by the experienced native English teachers at Live English, online since 2007.