Previous

3. 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". Look at these examples:

natural English... unnatural English...
  • the fast train
  • fast food
  • the quick train
  • quick food
  • a quick shower
  • a quick meal
  • a fast shower
  • a fast meal

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.

Previous