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The importance of correct pronunciation

  1. Clarity: Proper pronunciation ensures that your words are easily understood by others. When you pronounce words correctly, you convey your thoughts clearly, making it easier for others to comprehend your message.
  2. Comprehension: Correct pronunciation helps you understand others better. When you can accurately pronounce words, you can effectively grasp the meaning of what others are saying, facilitating smooth communication.
  3. Credibility: Having good pronunciation enhances your credibility and professionalism. It shows that you have taken the time to learn and master the language, which can positively impact how others perceive your competence.
  4. Fluency: Proper pronunciation is a key component of fluency in a language. When you can pronounce words correctly, your speech flows smoothly, making it easier to express yourself and engage in conversations.
  5. Cultural Understanding: Pronunciation is closely linked to the culture and identity of a language. By paying attention to proper pronunciation, you demonstrate respect for the culture associated with the language you are speaking.

Useful Idioms for the IELTS Exam

Here are some idiomatic expressions that can enhance your English language skills for the IELTS

  1. “Break a leg” – Good luck!
  2. “Hit the nail on the head” – Say or do something exactly right.
  3. “A piece of cake” – Something that is very easy.
  4. “Let the cat out of the bag” – Reveal a secret.
  5. “Bite the bullet” – Face a difficult or unpleasant situation with courage.
  6. “Kill two birds with one stone” – Achieve two things at the same time.
  7. “Cost an arm and a leg” – Be very expensive.
  8. “Once in a blue moon” – Something that happens very rarely.
  9. “The ball is in your court” – It is your turn to take action or make a decision.
  10. “Break the ice” – To initiate or start a conversation or interaction.
  11. “A dime a dozen” – Something that is common and easily available.
  12. “Ace in the hole” – A hidden advantage or secret resource.
  13. “Barking up the wrong tree” – Looking in the wrong place or accusing the wrong person.
  14. “By the skin of my teeth” – Just barely managing to do something.
  15. “Fit as a fiddle” – In good physical health.
  16. “On cloud nine” – Feeling extreme happiness or joy.
  17. “Paint the town red” – To go out and have a great time, often by partying or celebrating.
  18. “Under the weather” – Feeling unwell or sick.
  19. “The apple of my eye” – Someone or something that is treasured or loved deeply.
  20. “A blessing in disguise” – Something that initially seems unfortunate but results in a positive outcome.

Remember to use these idioms appropriately in context to demonstrate your language proficiency during the IELTS exam. Best of luck with your preparation!

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How to learn vocabulary

Learning vocabulary can be an exciting and effective process. Here are some strategies that can help you expand your word power:

  1. Read extensively: Engage in reading materials of various genres and topics. This exposure will introduce you to new words in their contextual settings, enhancing your understanding and retention.
  2. Create a word list: Carry a notebook or use a mobile app to jot down unfamiliar words you encounter during reading or conversations. Review and consolidate your list regularly.
  3. Use flashcards or mnemonic techniques: Write the new words on one side and their meanings or sample sentences on the other side of index cards. Review the cards regularly, testing your memory. Alternatively, create memory aids such as acronyms or vivid mental images to associate with new words.
  4. Contextualize and personalize: Understand the context in which a word is used to deepen your understanding. Relate new words to your own experiences or create personalized sentences to reinforce their meaning.
  5. Practice with activities: Engage in word games, crossword puzzles, or vocabulary quizzes to make learning fun and interactive. Online platforms and mobile apps offer a wide range of vocabulary-building resources.
  6. Use vocabulary in daily life: Aim to use new words in your speaking or writing to reinforce your learning. Incorporate them naturally into conversations or in written assignments.
  7. Join a language learning community: Interacting with fellow learners or participating in language exchange programs can provide opportunities to practice and reinforce new vocabulary.
  8. Use technology: Utilize digital tools like language-learning apps and online dictionaries to access word definitions, usage examples, and pronunciation guides instantly.

Remember, patience and consistency are key when it comes to vocabulary acquisition. Make learning a daily habit, and over time you will see your word bank grow. Happy learning!

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What is a collocation?

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The definition of collocation refers to a group of words that often go together or that are likely to occur together.

Two words which go together such as night owl, early bird, light sleeper or profitable business are examples of collocation.

If you use random words without checking whether the collocation is correct, you will end up with serious mistakes and you may be misunderstood. Additionally, English native speakers will immediately know that you are English is quite poor.

For instance, if you say do a mistake instead of make a mistake, you will, of course, prove that your English is far from perfect. It is very important to pay attention to collocations, especially when you use new words for the first time. Undoubtedly, you need to know how to use words in a sentence, both in spoken and in written English.

In the table below, I will show you collocations of the word business used as a noun.

To find out the collocations of specific words, I recommend this excellent, free dictionary, a very useful tool for students at Upper-Intermediate to Advanced level. Go there and check every new word when you write serious essays and when you learn new vocabulary. Your English will become fluent much faster.

Online Collocation Dictionary

Online Collocation Dictionary

Download free pdf with business collocations.

Business collocations

English For You Online Club

Come and join me in the exciting journey of studying English, the beautiful language of Shakespeare and today’s world. Explore British culture, music, history, places, towns, cities and wonderful countryside by using original texts and videos.
I will help you get to know this unique and small country full of lovely people, diversity, amazing historic and modern architecture, culture, tradition, fairy tale castles and never-ending adventure of finding hidden gems of nature.
Come, and let me help you fall in love with this wonderful language, knowledge of which will open the door for you to get a better job, to travel all over the world, to be able to communicate wherever you are and to do so many great things which are not possible without knowing English.

Teaching takes place mainly online via skype, but if you live nearby we can arrange face to face lessons at your home, a cosy café or wherever it suits us.
If you are already excited and eager to study send me a message. We will arrange a free 30 minutes meeting to talk about your specific language needs and set a plan for your study.

I will be delighted to lead you and help you achieve your learning goals.

Do not forget to follow this website to get more information and interesting resources to study English.

Thanks for joining me!

Good company in a journey makes the way seem shorter. — Izaak Walton