5 Strategies to Improve your Spanish Vocabulary
A good vocabulary plays an essential role in understanding and expressing ourselves well. Vocabulary and grammar are probably the two most important elements that language learners focus on. Though every individual learns in a different way, there are a few methods that can be used by any new language learner. If you have decided to learn Spanish or are already in the process and wondering how to improve your vocabulary, just read on. What works for you may not work for your friend, so choose according to your learning style and improve your Spanish vocabulary.
Let's now see which 5 Strategies can help you Improve your Spanish Vocabulary
Learn most common vocabulary along with what is relevant to you
As a beginner, you can start with the most commonly used words. Most of the time learning around 250 words can help with seventy per cent of the basic conversations. As you learn new words and start using them, focus on learning words that are more relevant to you. Depending on whether you are learning Spanish to speak to someone for professional reasons or to communicate with your Spanish friend or partner, the vocabulary would vary. Thus, as you learn the most commonly used words, try to figure out the vocabulary that would help you communicate in the most effective manner depending on your reason to learn Spanish.
Contextual learning
Rather than just focussing on the words, learning in contexts can be very helpful. It helps in understanding the usage and meaning of words in different contexts and how to use them. As you focus on learning based on context, it becomes easy to recall, retain and personally use the words in different situations.
Use different learning and memorizing techniques
Spaced repetition, mnemonics, flashcards, creating stories etc. are all different ways to learn and memorize words that you learn. You can choose any one of them or a combination to improve your vocabulary. Most of the time, as learners move to newer words, they tend to forget the earlier vocabulary which can bring them back to the initial stage. These methods can be very useful in recalling what you have learned earlier.
Add emotion to the words that you learn
If you just learn the word love in Spanish with its meaning you might forget it. Using it with an example of your loved one can help you retain it forever. Here you can try using different sentences where there are more words like partner or child included along with love. You might also try using it in different contexts like I love reading or so on.
Practice, practice and practice
The importance of practice cannot be emphasized enough when learning any new skill and language is no exception. Every time you come across a new word, learn to use it in as many sentences and situations as possible. Try varied examples. Use a word at least three to four times in different situations to get it registered in your mind. After every few days, revisit what you have learned and see how much you can retain.
Finally,
Along with these, you can also join a class where you can learn in an organized manner. There are many online classes that focus on teaching conversational Spanish which can help you learn the most useful, relevant and contextual vocabulary that can play a crucial role in a smooth conversation.