Expand your English Vocabulary with These 5 Word Families

Expanding your vocabulary with new words, phrases, idioms and slang is an extremely important part of learning English. Think of all the times you have got “stuck” in the middle of a conversation because you could not find the right word to say. The best way to avoid this  is to add new words to your vocabulary continuously. The more words you have in your active vocabulary, the better you would be with speaking fluently.

Also, most standardized tests of the English language such as IELTS and TOEFL will test you on your vocabulary. They will measure how proficient you are with knowing the meaning of certain English words and your ability to use them in speaking and writing exercises.

One of the most effective ways of learning English is through word families. Instead of learning the meanings of individual words, you learn a bucket of words related to each other. So let’s jump right in to the 5 word families we have for you today. Try to learn one new word family at a time and all these words will become second nature to you in no time.

Word Family #1: Lazy

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synonyms/Related words

Sluggish

Inactive

Slow

Slothful

Indolent

Dull

Inert

 

Word Family #2: Cruel

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synonyms/Related words

Harsh

Severe

Hard-hearted

Merciless

Pitiless

Ferocious

Unrelenting

 

Word Family #3: Glorious

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synonyms/Related words

Admirable

Delightful

Famous

Celebrated

Famed

Eminent

Illustrious

 

Word Family #4: Funny

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synonyms/Related words

Amusing

Comical

Farcicial

Witty

Humorous

Laughable

Diverting

 

Word Family #5: Healthy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Synonyms/Related words

Hale

Sound

Hearty

Robust

Vigorous

Invigorating

Wholesome

 

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