What’s the best way to remember new English words?

Answer 1

Let me share with you some techniques that you might find useful for a second language acquisition:

1. Learn in context, not isolation

1. Instead of memorizing “apple = apple,” learn it in a sentence:
2. “I ate a red apple for breakfast.”
3. Context makes the word meaningful and easier to recall.

2. Use the word immediately

1. Try to say or write a sentence with the new word the same day you learn it.
2. Example: If you learn “curious”, write: “I am curious about space travel.”

3. Review with spaced repetition

1. Don’t just cram. Review after 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, etc.
2. Apps like Anki, Quizlet, or Memrise are great for this.

4. Make associations

1. Connect the new word to an image, sound, or memory.
2. Example: “slippery” → imagine slipping on a wet floor.

5. Group words by theme

1. Learn in categories (food, travel, emotions) rather than random lists.
2. This helps your brain build stronger connections.

6. Read and listen a lot

1. Notice how words appear in books, shows, or conversations.
2. Repeated exposure makes them stick naturally.

7. Keep a personal vocabulary journal

1. Write new words with their meanings, example sentences, and even a quick drawing if possible.

👉 The key is seeing, hearing, and using the word many times in different situations.

Answer 2

Use them repeatedly. Words are quickly forgotten unless they're used again and again. Make up new sentences with words and try to use them in conversation with English speakers.

Answer 3

Hi. You are most likely to remember words that are important to your daily life. Try to visualize situations in which you will need to use the word and learn related words together.

Try these steps:

1. Say it: Say it out loud several times with help for correct pronunciation as needed.
2. See it. See the word and associate it with a picture in your mind. Use it in a sentence with other words that you already know.
3. Write it. This helps with not only with using it in writing but also as a memory aide.

Review and practice in conversation with other students and your tutor will help too! You might also use flash cards.

As a certified ESL tutor and Spanish language learner, I have found these tips helpful. I hope you do too. Lyn

Answer 4

Great question! Association is key. Linking new words to something familiar whether its images, memory, or some other form. Visualizing the word to acronyms, example: face (feeling face).