I am trying to expand my vocabulary these days. The mnemonic techniques I found online for learning vocabulary don’t seem to work well for GRE words. I find that some words become easier when I encounter them while reading magazines or novels, while others, which may not even exist in my native language, don’t stick in my mind. Many teachers, like GregMat, recommend learning vocabulary while reading books or magazines—I’ve tried The New Yorker and yes, I found dozens of GRE words in just two paragraphs. That’s why I’ve opted for a vocabulary app. Day after day, repetition after repetition. Initially, I was often confused about many words. However, recently, while reading a book titled “Dirty Work,” I came across several words I’d just learned, and I could clearly recall their meanings. This made me quite pleased.

Why choose to continue memorizing vocabulary? It’s because it’s just the right time. When I was in college, I bought a GRE vocabulary book from an English institution. I flipped through it repeatedly, but I kept mixing up the words, and eventually, I gave up. However, in recent years, I found more suitable learning resources and developed better study habits. Consequently, my reading has increased significantly, leading to much-improved learning abilities and foundations compared to back then.

I know that many learners prefer apps like Magoosh or Kaphan, but I prefer Eudic. The vocabulary list I’ve chosen is from a classification intended for foreigners, containing approximately 8300 words. It includes some everyday words as well as those taught in schools in English-speaking countries. I may not be familiar with all of these words; even if I’ve encountered them before, my pronunciation might be off, and my spelling could be incorrect. Some words, such as “ferrous,” “percolator “stethoscope,” “euphemism,” “atonement,” “pedantic,” or “spire,” are likely ones I wouldn’t encounter in my daily life. Moreover, even if I can think of one English word for some, it would likely be the most basic one, while there might be four or five obscure synonyms.

Initially, I tried using the book “Essential Words for the GRE,” but after three days, I couldn’t remember nearly 200 words, including their English meanings and example sentences. So, I switched to flashcard apps with etymology.

Additionally, I had thought about Manhattan Prep GRE books but I guess I could give up soon. As for magazines, I probably won’t read The Economist; because I prefer daily-life topics. Instead, I might choose The Atlantic, The New Yorker, some computer technology magazines, or Scientific American. But that’s years away.

I am not sure, but will I learn to express myself like these samples?

1. Last year, I procured a rugged mountain bike. During my moments of leisure, I traverse the undulating terrain of levees and suburban trails. Unlike the regimented routines of weightlifting at the gym, I find solace in the serene activity of mountain biking. The vistas are enchanting, and accompanied by the melodic tunes of countryside music or the strumming of a guitar in my headphones, I can momentarily shed the burdens of stress. Moreover, I have developed a penchant for consuming carbonated beverages as of late. Perhaps I hold the belief that alkaline-infused refreshments offer a healthier and more invigorating alternative to traditional drinks. Consequently, I ensure to carry a flask with me on my cycling excursions.
2. In all honesty, I harbor a few cogitations regarding ‘Barbie’; its essence eludes me. Lately, I’ve found myself engrossed in television series and films hailing from the ’80s, many of which portray the evolution of relationships within friendships, familial dynamics, or academic settings. These narratives delve into the depths of internal conflicts and interpersonal dilemmas without the need for explicit categorization. It seems that slice-of-life dramas present a more accessible avenue for comprehension and interpretation.

For speaking topics, I follow a few podcasts: This American Life (most frequent), Stuff You Should Know, IELTS Speaking for Success (I like Maria’s accent, and the conversations flow naturally and are quite enjoyable).

Moreover, I find memorizing words to be one of the few things where I can concentrate and see tangible progress with effort. However, I try not to see it as an escape. I don’t aim to remember all the words; I just skim through them quickly. So, I set a timeframe of 20 days to a month (almost halfway through now). Most of the time, I’m alone, reading or watching videos. So, I try to pay more attention to everyday things and practice avoiding absolute or macro-level thoughts. Some habits are hard to change when you spend too much time alone; it’s unavoidable.