Learning vocabulary is a foundation stone in mastering a foreign language, especially English, which is the international language of communication, technology and science. The more vocabulary you know, the more effectively you can understand, express yourself and interact. Many English learners, regardless of level, wonder: “What is the smartest and most effective way to learn and remember words?”
Instead of relying on memorising lists or learning words mechanically, there are proven methods that make the process more natural, more interesting and, most importantly, more efficient in the long term. In this article, we will look at many techniques, both modern and traditional, and how you can adapt them to your own learning style.
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Learn words through context – not in isolation
The first and most important tip is to avoid learning words disconnected from context. When you see a word being used in a sentence, in an article or in a film, your brain records it much more effectively. Instead of just learning that “run” = τρέχω, look at how it works in different contexts:
- I run every morning before work.
- The engine is running smoothly.
- Don’t run away from your problems.
This kind of multimodal exposure to different contexts strengthens memory and helps you understand the different meanings and uses of each word.[1]
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Apps and tools for vocabulary learning
Technology has given us excellent tools for learning words, which make the process interactive, enjoyable and tailored to your level.[4][5]
🔹 The most popular apps are:
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- Anki: Uses a spaced repetition system, ideal for long‑term memorisation.
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- Quizlet: Lets you create your own flashcards and games.
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- Memrise: Includes videos with native speakers and uses humour and images to help you learn more easily.
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- Duolingo: Very good for beginners, with games, challenges and daily practice.
Using one of these apps every day, even for just 10–15 minutes, can have a huge impact on your progress.
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Create a personal dictionary
Many successful learners keep a “vocabulary journal”, meaning a notebook or digital file with words they encounter, organised by topic or by day. For each word you can note:
- The translation
- An example sentence
- The pronunciation (e.g. via the Cambridge Dictionary)
- Synonyms/antonyms
- Short phrases or idioms
The act of recording and processing words strengthens active memory and helps you integrate them into your vocabulary more effectively.
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Read and listen to English every day
Frequent exposure to English is crucial. The more words you see and hear in real‑life contexts, the more naturally you will remember them.
What you can do:
- Read articles on topics that interest you (e.g. travel, technology, fashion).
- Watch series with English subtitles (not Greek) so you learn words in their natural rhythm.
- Listen to podcasts for English learners or native speakers (e.g. BBC Learning English, Luke’s English Podcast).
- Read books or eBooks at an adapted level (graded readers).
If you choose material that really interests you, you will stay consistent and learn almost without noticing it.
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Use new words actively
It is not enough to “know” a word. You need to use it to truly make it your own.
How to do this:
- Write sentences with the new words.
- Create dialogues or short stories.
- Repeat the words out loud (to activate spoken memory).
- Use them in conversations or in lessons with a teacher.
Active use creates neural connections in the brain, which help move vocabulary from short‑term to long‑term memory.
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Group words by topic
The brain learns better when information has a logical connection. Instead of learning unrelated words, try grouping them into thematic sets.
Example topic areas:
- Food: bread, vegetables, dairy, cutlery, spices
- Work: meeting, salary, promotion, deadline, boss
- Health: pain, illness, prescription, appointment, recovery
You can also create mind maps or lists related to your personal interests (e.g. gaming, music, sports).
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Review systematically
Without systematic review, memory quickly fades. The spaced repetition strategy is particularly effective. You can apply it:
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- By using apps such as Anki.
- By doing a weekly review in your personal dictionary.
- By making flashcards (paper or digital).
- By giving yourself small “tests”.
It is better to review words for 5 minutes every day than to study for one hour once a week.
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Use mnemonics and visual techniques
Mnemonic techniques help you link words to images, stories or other words you already know.
Example:
- The word “awkward” means feeling uneasy or embarrassed.
→ Imagine someone walking in an awkward way and tripping at a party.
These associations may seem strange, but they work extremely well for memory.
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Combine different ways of learning (multisensory learning)
We all learn differently. For some people, visual memory (reading) works best, for others auditory (listening), and for others kinaesthetic (doing, moving).
Ideas:
- Read words and write them at the same time.
- Listen to words and repeat them.
- Play vocabulary games (e.g. Scrabble, crosswords).
- Teach the words you have learned to someone else (a powerful boost to memory).
Building a rich English vocabulary does not happen overnight. It is a marathon, not a sprint. But with consistency, review and smart techniques, you can make vocabulary learning not only efficient but enjoyable.
The key is to find what works best for you and integrate it into your daily routine. The more you use the language, the more easily new words will take root in your memory.
At our online school, we apply all these modern vocabulary‑learning techniques in a structured and practical way. Through interactive lessons, personalised exercises and continuous guidance from experienced teachers, we help every learner develop their vocabulary effectively and with confidence. We are always by our students’ side, offering support, encouragement and personal guidance at every stage of their learning journey.
