vocabulary
- 01 B1 Intermediate
all the words that you know and use in a particular language.
the total stock of words known or used by a specific individual.
Simple“Reading every day is a great way to improve your English vocabulary.”
In context“The student's receptive vocabulary was significantly larger than her productive one, allowing her to understand complex texts even if she could not yet write them.”
UsageOften used as an uncountable noun when referring to a person's general knowledge.
PitfallI need to learn many vocabularies. I need to learn a lot of vocabulary.When referring to the general set of words you know, 'vocabulary' is usually uncountable. Use 'words' if you want to count them.
Synonymslexisword power - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the special words used in a particular subject or job.
the set of terms and phrases specific to a particular field, discipline, or activity.
Simple“You need to learn the medical vocabulary before you can work in a hospital.”
In context“The legal vocabulary used in the contract was so dense that the clients required a simplified summary to understand their obligations.”
UsageCan be used as a countable noun when comparing different fields.
Synonyms - 03 B1 Intermediate
a list of words, often with their meanings, used for learning or reference.
a list or collection of words, typically arranged alphabetically and defined, intended for pedagogical or reference purposes.
Simple“There is a short vocabulary at the back of each chapter in the textbook.”
In context“The teacher provided a comprehensive vocabulary of technical terms to ensure the students could follow the advanced physics lecture.”
UsageCommonly used as a countable noun in this sense.
Synonymsglossaryword list - 04 C1 Advanced
the range of styles, shapes, or techniques used by an artist or designer.
a range of artistic or stylistic forms, symbols, or techniques characteristic of a particular movement or creator.
Simple“The architect used a modern vocabulary of glass and steel for the new library.”
In context“The choreographer developed a unique movement vocabulary that blended classical ballet with contemporary street dance.”
UsageUsed metaphorically to describe non-verbal expression.
Synonyms
Learned borrowing from Medieval Latin vocābulārium. Doublet of vocabularium.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.