When it comes to vocabulary building, you need to remember that it’s not just how many words you know, but how many words you can use correctly. As was pointed out in a recent blog post, using words incorrectly will give people a bad impression of your knowledge, skill, and general intellect. Unfortunately, we’re all in the public spotlight nearly every day, and everything we do and say contributes to the impression we make on other people. There’s an old quote that “appearances are everything” – but that only holds true if you never open your mouth. Once you start speaking, you’d better make sure that your speech is as sophisticated as the well-tailored outfit you’re wearing.

One of the best ways to learn how to use words is to read. In particular, read material written by skilled writers. If you clicked through the link in the paragraph above, you’ll find a blog written by one of the many language specialists out there. By looking for and reading articles and sites like this, you’ll learn more about specific English vocabulary words, and you’ll also be exposed to some of the most deftly-written English phrases on the internet.

Another good way to make sure your skill with language develops along with your vocabulary is to practice using new words in sentences. When you first learn a word, you’ll undoubtedly be using a print or on-line dictionary to find its definition. If you’re using a good dictionary, you’ll also be provided with one or more examples of how the word is used in a sentence. You can use the internet search tools to find more examples. Study as many as you can to get the best idea of how the word is used correctly, then start writing out your own sample sentences. Once you’re confident you know how to use the word, begin finding ways to include it in your conversations or presentations.

Appearances may not be everything, but if you appear to be someone who doesn’t know the meaning of the words you use, then you’re not making the positive impression you want.

Vizzini: He didn’t fall?! Inconceivable!
Inigo: You keep using that word. I do not think it means what you think it means.
– “The Princess Bride” by William Goldman