Approach #1: Using elaboration to learn new words
It has been noted that people can retain up to 670% more words in their memory just by using elaboration. In this section, we will teach you the ways in which you can use elaboration to improve vocabulary.
The definition of elaboration
Elaboration is defined as "adding details or information in order to be more specific."
For instance, say you're reading a book and chance upon the word "mercurial". You look it up in the dictionary, and the meaning is "volatile or changeable". You will probably remember it for a few minutes but you will have forgotten it the next day. This is because you did not elaborate on the meaning.
The usage of elaboration
If you want to learn a new word, it is very helpful if you can associate it with familiar ideas, words, or experiences, to make it more meaningful to you. Let's take the word "mercurial". This can apply to your neighbor across the street's mercurial personality, who could be sour and grumpy today but will be cheerful and sunny tomorrow
Improve vocabulary by using 2 techniques
Two of the simplest and most effective ways to improve vocabulary are by usage examples and related words.
Usage Examples
If you are trying to improve vocabulary, it will help a lot if you use new words in many different ways. In the Ultimate Vocabulary software, the Word Inspector will list several usage examples for you. You can also search the web for the different applications of your word. If you see the word being used in various contexts, you will be able to remember it more easily.
It is even more effective if you can use the words in your own sentences, based on your own experiences or situations that are familiar to you. You will then be able to learn the new word much faster.
Related Words
Words are related to other words. When learning a new word, take a look at the other words related to it, starting with its synonyms and antonyms. Synonyms of your new word have the same meaning, while antonyms have the opposite meaning. A synonym of your word, "mercurial," is "changeable," and an antonym is "constant."
Besides synonyms and antonyms, you can also study other related words such as "similar words" and "hypernyms." Similar words are not exactly the same in meaning but have common implications. For example, "mercurial" is similar to "unreliable". A hypernym on the other hand, is a more general term for the word you're learning. A hypernym for "refrigerator" is "appliance".
Applying Elaboration through Ultimate Vocabulary
Ultimate Vocabulary makes great use of elaboration. No matter what word you are learning, you can find an exhaustive list of its related words and several usage examples through the Word Inspector. You will also be tested on your use of elaboration.
Using elaboration will greatly improve vocabulary, so make sure to carefully read all the related words and usage examples that Ultimate Vocabulary shows you. Not only will you be able to improve vocabulary, but you will boost your memory as well.