Vocabulary builder

Learn one word as a network of meanings, forms, partners, and situations.

PRINT REFERENCE · DEPTH BEFORE RARITY

Seven fields

headword     decide
core meaning choose after considering
word family  decision · decisive · decisively · indecisive
grammar      decide to do · decide that · decide whether
collocation  make/reach/reverse a decision
register     decide neutral · determine more formal
example      We decided to delay the release.

A word is usable only when meaning, grammar, and likely partners can be retrieved together.

Depth tests

  1. Recognise the word in a new sentence.
  2. Explain its core meaning without translating.
  3. Choose the correct form for a sentence slot.
  4. Supply one common collocation.
  5. Contrast it with a near-synonym.
  6. Use it in a personally true sentence.
  7. Retrieve it again after delay.

Near-synonym grid

problem: neutral difficulty needing a solution

issue: topic or problem for discussion; often softer

fault: defect or responsibility for something wrong

obstacle: thing blocking progress

Synonyms overlap; they are rarely interchangeable. Record difference in meaning, collocation, or register.

Phrasal verbs

Store meaning and structure together: look into something investigate · put something off postpone · come up with something produce an idea. Mark whether object can split verb and particle.

Retrieval schedule

day 0  recognise, pronounce, create personal example
day 1  retrieve meaning + frame without notes
day 7  use in new speaking or writing task
day 30 contrast with neighbour and use again
Selection rule: promote words encountered repeatedly or needed for real expression. Do not collect rare words merely because they look advanced.

Sources: British Council vocabulary practice, Cambridge English learner activities, and English Profile CEFR vocabulary guidance.