It is not enough just to know the meaning of a word. You also need to know:
- which words it is usually associated with
- its grammatical characteristics
- how it is pronounced
- Write down adjectives and nouns that are often associated, e.g., classical music, flying saucer, common sense.
- Write down verbs and nouns that form expressions, e.g., to express an opinion; to take sides.
- Write down nouns in appropriate phrases, e.g., in touch with; a sense of humor.
- Write down words with their prepositions, e.g., at a loss for words; thanks to you.
- Note special grammatical characteristics of new words. For example, note irregular verbs, e.g., take, took, taken; uncountable nouns, e.g., luggage; or nouns that are used only in the plural, e.g., clothes.
- Note any special pronunciation problems of new words.
