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.