IELTS Collocations 1.2.5

IELTS Collocation: Learning collocations is highly recommended.

• Some of the most important vocabulary required for IELTS writing involves collocations. These are crucial for expanding your vocabulary. Essentially, collocations are combinations of 2 or 3 words that frequently occur together and sound natural to native speakers. For tips on enhancing your vocabulary, refer to this application.
• If you are unfamiliar with how to utilize collocations, they may appear or sound incorrect to a native speaker.

Why are collocations so critical?

• Within the grading criteria for IELTS, you are evaluated on Lexical Resource (vocabulary). Your usage of collocations in the writing section, particularly in essays, affects your score. Here is what is specified in the Public Band Descriptors regarding Writing task 2 Band 7.
• Collocations in IELTS play a significant role not only in writing but also in the speaking test. They contribute to a smooth, natural flow in your speech, which, when applied effectively, can elevate your score to Band 7 or higher in the speaking test. However, it is essential to use them appropriately.

How can I learn collocations?

• When acquiring new vocabulary, it is imperative to learn the associated or complementary words that form collocations. Avoid merely memorizing isolated words. Collocations function as language chunks with various patterns to understand.
• The most effective way to grasp collocations is through reading, listening, and constructing your own sentences. I recommend maintaining a vocabulary book where you record example sentences. Instead of compiling word lists, which lack context, it is crucial to comprehend how collocations operate within a sentence structure. Additionally, regular review and practical application are necessary.

There exist several common patterns for collocations:

• Verb + Noun
• Verb + Adverb
• Adjective + Noun
• Adverb + Adjective
• Noun + Noun
• Collocations with 'have' or 'take'