Introduction
When learning English, you may have heard about “multi-words,” which can include common phrases, idioms, and collocations. These are words that, when grouped together, take on a new meaning that often cannot be understood just by knowing the meanings of the individual words. Understanding these multi-words helps in making your English sound more natural and native. This guide will introduce you to different types of multi-words, with examples and tips for using them in daily conversations.
What Are Multi-Words?
Multi-words are combinations of two or more words that create a specific meaning. For example, the phrase “break the ice” means to start a conversation in a friendly way, not to literally break ice. Knowing how to use multi-words correctly will help you understand native speakers and express yourself more clearly.
Types of Multi-Words
Let’s look at three main types of multi-words you will come across in English: idioms, collocations, and phrasal verbs.
1. Idioms
Idioms are phrases that have a figurative meaning, different from the literal meaning of the words. For instance, “piece of cake” doesn’t mean a slice of dessert but rather something that is easy to do.
- Example Idioms:
- “Spill the beans” – To reveal a secret.
- “Bite the bullet” – To face a difficult situation bravely.
- “Under the weather” – To feel unwell.
Idioms are widely used in everyday English and can be tricky to understand if you’re new to the language. Learning them can add colour and personality to your speech and writing.
2. Collocations
Collocations are words that commonly go together and sound “right” to native speakers. For example, in English, we say “make a decision” instead of “do a decision.” Collocations can be tough for learners because they often don’t follow strict rules.
- Common Collocations:
- “Do homework” (instead of “make homework”)
- “Heavy rain” (instead of “strong rain”)
- “Take a break” (not “have a break”)
Mastering collocations makes your English sound more natural, as these combinations are frequently used by native speakers.
3. Phrasal Verbs
Phrasal verbs combine a verb with a preposition or adverb to create a new meaning. They are an essential part of English, especially in spoken language. Examples include “give up,” “take off,” and “run out of.”
- Examples of Phrasal Verbs:
- “Turn up” – To arrive or increase the volume.
- “Look forward to” – To anticipate something with excitement.
- “Put off” – To delay something.
Understanding phrasal verbs can improve your comprehension when listening to English conversations, as they’re used frequently.
Why Multi-Words Are Important in English
Using multi-words in English makes you sound more fluent and natural. They can help you communicate ideas more effectively and make your speech less literal. Learning them allows you to understand English speakers better, especially since many multi-words are used daily.
How to Practise Multi-Words
Here are some simple steps to practise multi-words in your English learning routine:
- Read Daily – Reading English articles, books, and blogs can help you encounter multi-words in context. Visit our English Articles page for daily reading practice.
- Watch Videos – Watching English videos, including TV shows, YouTube videos, and movies, will expose you to multi-words in real conversations. Check out our Learn English Weekly YouTube Channel.
- Use Flashcards – Create flashcards with the multi-words and their meanings. Quiz yourself or practise with a friend.
- Try English Games – Playing English vocabulary games can be a fun way to learn multi-words. See our article on fun vocabulary games for kids.
Multi-Word Examples in Everyday Life
Here are some ways to apply multi-words in everyday situations.
- At Work – Use collocations and phrasal verbs to sound more professional. For example, “make a decision” instead of “decide,” and “bring up a topic” instead of “mention a topic.”
- In Social Settings – Idioms are great for informal settings. Saying, “I’m feeling under the weather,” is an idiomatic way of saying you don’t feel well.
- While Travelling – Phrasal verbs like “check-in,” “take off,” and “pick up” are often used in travel situations. Knowing these will make it easier to navigate airports, hotels, and other places.
Common Challenges with Multi-Words
Multi-words can be confusing for several reasons:
- Literal vs. Figurative Meanings – Many idioms and phrasal verbs don’t mean exactly what the words say, so translating them directly can be misleading.
- Usage Varies by Region – Some multi-words are specific to British or American English. For example, “pop in” (British) vs. “drop by” (American) both mean to visit briefly.
- Practice Takes Time – Getting comfortable with multi-words requires practice. Consistently using them in conversation will make them feel natural over time.
Resources for Learning Multi-Words
- Online Idiom Dictionaries: Websites like Idioms.com offer a large collection of idioms with meanings and examples.
- Language Apps: Apps like Duolingo and Memrise often have lessons on phrasal verbs and collocations.
- English Blogs and Articles: Reading English blogs helps you see multi-words in action. Browse more articles on our blog.
Conclusion
Learning multi-words like idioms, collocations, and phrasal verbs is essential for anyone looking to speak fluent English. These phrases add depth to your conversations and make your English sound more natural. Try to learn new multi-words each week and practise them in your daily conversations for the best results. And remember, understanding multi-words is a gradual process, so be patient and keep practising!
For more learning tips, explore our resources and keep practising!
