Some Simple Ways to Improve Your Vocabulary

By Cristopher Fowers

A large vocabulary can help you communicate clearly and effectively and the positive repercussions are endless—write understandable emails and letters, communicate your thoughts in business meetings, write better research papers, give memorable speeches that make long–lasting impressions and more. The list goes on and on.

There are some easy ways to improve your vocabulary that don’t take long hours of studying boring dictionaries. Here are a few ideas:

• Keep a Notebook of New Words

We hear and read new words all of the time but rarely do we take the time to look them up. When you hear an unfamiliar word, jot it down and take the time to look it up later.

• Study Foreign Languages

Studying foreign languages is a great way to improve your vocabulary in your native language. You’ll find similar words and become more familiar with conjugations. A common word in a foreign language may be uncommon in your native language. For example, edificio is a common word in Spanish for building. The word edifice is the less common English translation.

• Use Dictionary Software and a Thesaurus

Dictionary software is a handy tool to define words you come across on the Internet and in emails. You can also easily search for words in the thesaurus to use in your emails and reports.

• Sign up for a Word of The Day Email or Use a Word of the Day Calendar

Various websites offer a word of the day so you can increase your vocabulary. Check out dictionary.com and w–m.com, two websites that offer a word of the day. Another way to learn a new word each day is use a tear–off calendar that features vocabulary.

• Read, Read and Read

There is no better way to improve your vocabulary than to read books. Read a variety of genres from different periods, and when you read an unfamiliar word, look it up in a dictionary or dictionary software.

• Play Word Games

Scrabble, crossword puzzles and other word games are not only fun, but also educational. You can keep your mind sharp, alert and full of good words by doing the crossword puzzle in your favorite newspaper or magazine.

• Watch Educational Shows on TV

You can learn a lot of new words and terms by watching educational TV like NOVA or the Discovery Channel instead of your favorite sitcom. This is especially helpful to learn words that pertain to a certain topic like amphibians, space or nuclear energy.

• Join a Writing Group or Book Club

A writing or book club can motivate you to write, read and learn new words. And, you can share your new vocabulary with the group and visa versa.

• Attend Lectures or Continuing Education Classes

There are many free lectures at local colleges, universities and libraries. Be sure to take your dictionary. It’s never too late to learn something new.

To read comprehensive reviews on dictionary software that can help you with your vocabulary, click here.

©2003 – 2008 TopTenREVIEWS, Inc.