Memory Aids for Vocabulary Building
Building your vocabulary requires several steps. First, you need to familiarize yourself with the definition of a particular word. Next, you also have to make sure that it enjoys permanent residence in your brain and is ready to roll off your tongue anytime you need it. For that to happen, you need to work on getting that word firmly into your long-term memory. You may find the following memory aids quite helpful.
What Are Memory Aids?
The more technical term for a memory aid is mnemonics (which is a word you could probably add to your vocabulary list as well!). Mnemonics refers to anything that can aid the memory or help you memorize more effectively.
Visuals or Picture Association
If one particular image comes into mind when you hear a specific word, then keep that image in mind. Focus on that as you repeat the word to yourself and as you think about its meaning. This will help you always remember what the word means and how best to use it.
Rhyme
If you want to remember the definition of recherché (a borrowed French term meaning"something rare, sophisticated, and exotic") try to think of something that it rhymes with. This will help you remember its pronunciation as well. For example, imagine a ray of sunlight illuminating Cher (the ageless singer) as she sashays ('sashay' rhymes with the last syllable of the word) across her patio towards a pool of colorful tropical fish.
As you can see, this type of rhyming may be a little bit far-fetched for some, but if it works for you, then that's what ultimately matters. Forget about what works for others. Always consider instead what will help you improve your vocabulary.
Usage
Come up with a unique or exceptionally funny or witty sentence while using the word. The idea behind the sentence must be so incredibly special that there is no way you will forget why it was said.
Translation
If you are building your vocabulary for your second language or something foreign, then try to translate it directly on your mind. Next, find a way to associate both terms.
Quotations
Look for famous people who made use of the word you are trying to learn. Research why they uttered such a statement. By giving the word a story you can relate to, you will never fail to remember how that word is best used.
Etymology
Sometimes, learning the etymology or origin of a word can help you remember a particular term. Do you know what an ichthyosaurus is? The 'saurus' part should give away its profile as a dinosaur. The 'ichthyo' part, on the other hand, would also be a clue if you know that ichthyology is the study of fish. By combining both terms, you now know that an ichthyosaur is a kind of fish-like dinosaur.
Flashcards
Lastly, flashcards are particularly effective in helping you memorize not just one or two words but a whole batch of them. In a way, this is also an example of picture association because your mind is storing images of these flashcards. When you try to recall a particular word, how it appears on the flashcard – and what its equivalent definition or use is – will show up on your mind.
NEXT LESSON: How Reading and Vocabulary Building Can Go Together