Considering taking the GRE exam to fulfil your dreams of studying abroad? Then, mastering GRE vocabulary becomes a top priority. The GRE is considered one of the toughest English language proficiency tests, largely due to its emphasis on vocabulary and reading skills. If you're unsure how to build a vocabulary that will help you achieve your desired score, look no further. We are here to provide a clear guide on how to begin and excel in your vocabulary journey.
With proper planning and guided study, you can not only become proficient in language skills but also navigate through your GRE test with top scores. Skip no tip from our blog to reap maximum benefits.
Understanding the Importance of Vocabulary in the GRE
The GRE verbal section comprises three types of questions: Text Completion, Sentence Equivalence, and Reading Comprehension. Each of these question types demands a strong grasp of vocabulary. Knowing the meaning of words, their connotations, and how they fit within the context is essential for selecting the correct answers.
For instance, to excel in the Sentence Equivalence section, you need to understand the meanings of the options and determine which two options best fit the blank. Similarly, to succeed in the Reading Comprehension section, you must have a strong grasp of the contextual meanings used in the passage.
Take a look at the below example of sentence equivalence.
Although the professor's lectures were often _______, the students were captivated by his knowledge and enthusiasm.
Options:
- engrossing
- tenacious
- informative
- monotonous
- Zesty
- dull
To choose the right answer, you need to understand that "monotonous" and "dull" both convey the idea of being boring or uninteresting, which fits the context of the sentence describing the professor's lectures. Despite the lectures being monotonous or dull, the students were still captivated by the professor's knowledge and enthusiasm, making these two options the best fit for the blank.
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Effective Techniques for Building GRE Vocabulary
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Start with a strong foundation: High Frequency words
Begin by familiarizing yourself with high-frequency GRE words. These are words that commonly appear in the GRE examination. Resources like the "Barron's 333 High-Frequency GRE Words" and "Manhattan Prep's Essential GRE Words" can provide a solid starting point.
To download the pdf word GRE Vocab list of Braron’s 333 High frequency words, click the link below:
Barrons-333-High-Freq-Words-With-Meanings.pdf | DocDroid
To download the gre Vocabulary words of "Manhattan Prep's Essential GRE Words” click the link below;
manhattan_prep_1000_gre_words_.pdf (lowes.com)
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Contextual Learning: The Power of Sentences
Learning words in isolation can be less effective than seeing them in context. Reading complex texts such as academic journals, editorial columns in newspapers like The New York Times or The Economist, Forbes , and literary novels can expose you to sophisticated vocabulary in context. Make a habit of noting down unfamiliar words along with the sentences they appear in. Later, research their meanings and create your sentences. This practice helps in understanding how words function within different contexts.
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Root Analysis: Understanding Word Origins
Many English words have Latin or Greek roots. Understanding these roots can help you decipher the meanings of unfamiliar words. For example, the root "bene" means good, leading to words like "beneficial" and "benevolent."
You must study common roots, prefixes, and suffixes. Books like "Merriam-Webster’s Vocabulary Builder" provide lists of roots along with example words.
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Utilize Color Coding: Visual Learning Aid
Incorporate color-coding into your vocabulary study routine to enhance memory retention. Assign different colours to words based on their difficulty or familiarity: for instance, use red for difficult words, blue for moderately challenging ones, and green for easier words. This visual differentiation helps in organizing your study sessions and allows you to focus more effectively on words that require additional attention. Over time, this technique can make reviewing and recalling vocabulary more efficient and engaging.
Color Coding Scheme
Red: Difficult Words
Blue: Moderate Words
Green: Easy Words
Take a look at the picture of color-coded notes:
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Utilize Mnemonics: Making Memory Aids
Mnemonics are memory aids that help you remember words through associations. For example, the word "aberrant" (which means deviating from the norm) can be remembered by thinking of a bear running on a street, which is clearly out of the norm.
Create your own mnemonics or find existing ones online. Websites like Memrise offer mnemonic techniques specifically for GRE vocabulary.
Take a look at an example :
To remember the word "infinitesimal" (meaning extremely small or negligible), create the mnemonic: "Infinite small tea mug".
Picture an infinitely small tea mug, so tiny that it can barely hold a drop of tea. This visual association helps you recall that "infinitesimal" refers to something incredibly small or insignificant.
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Engage in Active Usage: Practice Makes Perfect
Simply knowing the meaning of a word is not enough; you need to be able to use it accurately. Try to incorporate these words into your daily English or engage in activities that require you to use new words actively. This could be writing essays, participating in discussion forums, or even casual conversations.
Mastering GRE vocabularies requires not only memorization but also understanding how to apply them effectively in context. Join GRE study groups or online forums like Reddit's r/GRE or the GRE Prep Club. These communities offer opportunities to discuss words and concepts, thereby reinforcing your learning.
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Take advantage of Technology: Vocabulary Apps and Tools
Several mobile apps are designed to help with GRE vocabulary building. Magoosh Vocabulary Builder, GRE Vocab Genius, and WordUp Vocabulary are popular choices. These apps offer interactive ways to learn and test your knowledge. You can also use browser extensions like Vocabulary.com or the Merriam-Webster Dictionary extension to highlight important GRE words on web pages and provide instant definitions.
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Practice with a Friend: Verbal Quizzing
Engage in verbal quizzing sessions with a friend to reinforce GRE vocabulary. Take turns quizzing each other on words and their definitions using flashcards for GRE Vocabulary or a vocabulary list. This interactive approach not only helps in recalling words but also in testing your understanding of their usage in context. Discussing and explaining the meanings of words to each other enhances retention and deepens comprehension.
Here are some websites that offer free flashcards for GRE vocabulary
Magoosh: www.magoosh.com/gre/flashcards
Khan Academy: www.khanacademy.org/test-prep/gre
Mentalia: www.mentalia.com/gre-vocabulary-flashcards
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Engage in Practice Tests: Simulate Exam Conditions
Regular practice with the Vocabulary Quiz helps you get used to the GRE exam format and the kind of vocabulary that is tested. It also helps in timing your responses effectively. Take full-length GRE Vocabulary tests available from ETS or other prep providers. Analyze your performance to identify areas that need improvement and focus your vocabulary studies accordingly.
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Integrating Techniques into Your Daily Routine
Consistency is key to mastering GRE vocabulary. Integrate these techniques into your daily routine for constant progress:
- Morning Routine: Start your day with a quick review of flashcards or a vocabulary app. Spend 10-15 minutes reinforcing previously learned words and introducing new ones.
- Reading Time: Dedicate at least 30 minutes to reading challenging materials. Highlight and look up unfamiliar words.
- Writing Practice: Write a short essay or journal entry using new words. This not only helps in retaining vocabulary but also improves your writing skills.
- Evening Review: Before bed, review the words you learned during the day. This final review helps consolidate the words in your memory.
Conclusion
Mastering GRE vocabulary is a gradual process that demands dedication and smart strategies. By building a strong foundation with high-frequency words, leveraging contextual learning, utilizing mnemonics, engaging in active usage, and employing technology and structured resources, you can significantly enhance your vocabulary. Remember to review consistently and stay motivated by tracking your progress. With these techniques, you'll be well-equipped to master even the most challenging GRE words.
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