A collocation is two or more words that often go together. These combinations just sound “right” to native English speakers, who use them all the time. On the other hand, other combinations may be unnatural and just sound “wrong”.
Natural English | Unnatural English |
fast food | quick food |
a quick meal | a fast meal |
Why Learn Collocations?
- Your language will be more natural and more easily understood.
- You will have alternative and richer ways of expressing yourself.
- It is easier for our brains to remember and use language in chunks or blocks rather than as single words.
How to Learn Collocations?
- Be aware of collocations and try to recognize them when you see or hear them.
- Treat collocations as single blocks of language. Think of them as individual blocks or chunks. For instance, learn strongly support, not strongly + support.
- Read as much as possible. Reading is an excellent way to learn vocabulary and collocations in context and naturally.
- Revise what you learn regularly. Practise using new collocations in context as soon as possible after learning them.
Common Collocations | |
catch the bus | make a difference |
catch a cold | make a mistake |
catch someone’s attention | make an effort |
do business | pay attention |
do someone a favour | pay your respect |
do your homework | pay someone a visit |
keep the change | take a break |
keep a promise | take an exam |
keep in touch | take notes |
Collocations: Different Word Classes | ||
Adjectives and Nouns | Nouns and Verbs | |
We had a brief chat about Iraq but didn’t have time to discuss it properly. Unemployment is a major problem for the government these days. Improving the health service is another key issue for the UK. | The economy boomed in 2002. The company has grown and now employs over 30 people. The company has expanded and now has branches in most major countries. | |
Noun + Noun (with the following pattern (a(n)...of...) | Verb and Expression with Prepositions | |
a surge of anger a sense of pride a pang of nostalgia | As Bob received his medal, you could see his sister swelling with pride. I was filled with horror when I read the newspaper report of the war. When she spilt apple-juice on her new blue skirt the little girl burst into tears. | |
Verbs and Adverbs | Adverbs and Adjectives | |
He pulled steadily on the rope and helped her to safety. She placed the beautiful jar gently on the window ledge. He smiled proudly as he looked at the photos of his new granddaughter. | Ben and Jane are happily married. You are fully aware that there are serious problems. George was blissfully unaware that he was in danger. | |