What Are Collocations?
Collocations are combinations of words that frequently go together in English. These word pairs sound natural to native speakers because they are commonly used together.
Why Are Collocations Important?
Learning collocations is crucial for moving beyond basic vocabulary to achieve true fluency. For example, we say “make a decision,” not “do a decision.” Using the right combination makes your English sound much more natural.
- Makes your English sound smooth and native-like.
- Helps you speak and write faster and with more confidence.
- Improves reading and listening skills by helping you anticipate word patterns.
- Reduces common errors made by combining words incorrectly.
Types of Collocations
Collocations can be formed from different parts of speech.
| Type | Example |
|---|---|
| Adjective + Noun | strong coffee, heavy rain, a bright idea |
| Verb + Noun | make a mistake, do homework, take a break |
| Noun + Noun | a surge of anger, a pack of wolves, a team of experts |
| Verb + Adverb | run quickly, whisper softly, work hard |
| Adverb + Adjective | highly effective, deeply concerned, perfectly clear |
Common Mistake: Literal Translations
A common error is to translate word pairs directly from your native language. This often results in unnatural-sounding phrases. Always try to learn words in the context of how they are used in English.
How to Learn Collocations
- Read and listen regularly to notice common word pairings.
- Use collocation dictionaries for specific word partners.
- Practice using new collocations in your own sentences.
- Learn words in context, not just from isolated lists.
- Use flashcards and quizzes to test your knowledge.
Quick Practice
Choose the correct verb to form a common collocation.
1. She always (makes / does) a lot of mistakes in her essays.
2. Let’s (take / make) a break after two hours of work.
3. I prefer (strong / powerful) coffee in the morning.
4. They will (pay / make) attention during the lecture.