An Easy Trick to Help Expand Your Vocabulary

There are many ways to improve and widen one's vocabulary. Let me share with you one technique I find very effective. I simply associate words with something personal for better recall. For example, words such as nauseated, faint, and giddy became common to me because I was able to relate them with the dizziness I suffered from for quite a time.

If I can't associate a new word to myself then I try to do so with people I know. Below are 3 examples. The definitions are lifted from Merriam-Webster.

1. laconic : using or involving the use of a minimum of words
                : concise to the point of seeming rude or mysterious

Although opportunities to use this word are rare, I haven't forgotten its meaning since the day I associated it with my friend Sheila. She is known to be "a man of few words." Her conciseness may not be marked by rudeness or mystery but the word still suits her especially since her maiden name is Laconico. 

          Sentence for recall: Sheila Laconico is laconic.

2. affable : characterized by ease and friendliness

This word is so easy to remember since I associated it with my colleague Chilet Afable. Just like its meaning, Chilet is friendly, pleasant, and easy to talk to. I just need to be mindful of the differences in spelling and pronunciation though. 

          Sentence for recall: Ms. Afable is affable.

3. levity : a lack of seriousness
              : an amusing quality

When I first encountered this word, I was reminded of its semblance with a term of endearment I had for a friend. I used to call Levy as "Levitiful" -- a fusion of her name and beautiful. When I looked up its meaning, I was happy to realize that I could connect it with Levy's personality. Group lunches with her were often filled with laughter because of her comic stories. 

          Sentence for recall: There's always levity with Levy.

Having a broad vocabulary brings many benefits which I prefer not to discuss for now. That topic deserves a separate blog. I have this theory that this technique or trick is effective because attaching a word to something personal enables it to be stored in the long term memory. I really hope this will help you memorize new words a little bit more effortless. Let's give some overused words a rest and the not so popular ones a chance.

Three Thrift Tips from a Shopaholic

Isn’t the title of this post a good tongue twister? Ha-ha! It’s even better if I include my name in it: three thrift tips from terrific tere. Anyway, enough of that. If you’re like me who is extremely fond of and energized by shopping but also has an extremely limited budget then you might find my tips worth trying.

1. Photograph the things you frequently buy. Most likely you’ll realize you have too much of the same type. Most girls seem to think that they don’t have enough lipstick, bag, clothes, and accessories when they can’t even fit them all in the storage bins. The next time you catch yourself reaching out for another lipstick to buy, take a look at the picture you took and be reminded of what you already have. You’ll probably end up putting that lipstick back on the rack.

My nail polish collection

Swatches of my favorite lipsticks

     2. Give locally-made products a chance. Cheap is not always cheap! Inexpensive items are not necessarily tacky or low quality. Below are some of my cheap finds which I'll continue to repurchase because they're really good.

This JThomas hair spray keeps my hair smooth and tangle-free. I remember convincing my friend Reg to purchase this when we were at Watsons. She too was amazed by how great this product is. I think this only retails for PhP150. 

This Careline cheek tint is one of my favorites. I like how it's easy to apply and gives me a natural blush. It costs no higher than a hundred bucks.

This may not be made in the Philippines but its price is comparable to the local colognes in the market.  I love the scent of vanilla. I use this before I go to sleep and its sweet smell helps me have sweet dreams.

-   3. Make a "can't resist list." Take some time to ponder on possible affordable whims and list them down. List down stuff you still don't have. Just in case you feel the urge to buy something during your next visit to the mall, take a look at this list. At least you'll spend on something you know you like and don't have yet.

  

     Others may not understand how individuals like me find happiness in this frivolous hobby. As much as I want to restrain myself, there are times when my self-discipline malfunctions. That's just how I am. I love to shop! Looking at the brighter side, at least I shop with a thrifty heart and thoughtful mind. Enjoy your thrifty shopping!