Collocations

 

What is a collocation?

A collocation is two or more words that often go together. These combinations just sound "right" to native English speakers, who use them all the time. On the other hand, other combinations may be unnatural and just sound "wrong".

Why learn collocations?

  • ·         Your language will be more natural and more easily understood.
  • ·         You will have alternative and richer ways of expressing yourself.
  • ·         It is easier for our brains to remember and use language in chunks or blocks rather than as single words.

Types of collocation

There are several different types of collocation made from combinations of verb, noun, adjective etc. Some of the most common types are:

 

  • ·         adverb + adjective: completely satisfied (NOT downright satisfied)
  • ·         adjective + noun: excruciating pain (NOT excruciating joy)
  • ·         noun + noun: a surge of anger (NOT a rush of anger)
  • ·         noun + verb: lions roar (NOT lions shout)
  • ·         verb + noun: commit suicide (NOT undertake suicide)
  • ·         verb + expression with preposition: burst into tears (NOT blow up in tears)
  • ·         verb + adverb: wave frantically (NOT wave feverishly)

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