How to Learn Vocabulary That Actually Sticks

Stop Forgetting New Words and Start Using Them
 

Have you ever learned a new word… and forgotten it two days later?

You’re not alone.

Many learners spend hours studying vocabulary lists but struggle to remember or use new words when speaking.

Why? Because memorizing words isn’t the same as learning them.

In this post, I’ll show you how to learn vocabulary in a way that actually sticks—so you can remember, recall, and use new words naturally.

❌ Why Vocabulary Doesn’t Stick

• You memorize words without context

• You learn words without using them

• You forget to review regularly

• You try to learn too many words at once

✅ The solution? Learn smarter, not harder.

✅ 5 Strategies That Make Vocabulary Stick

1. Learn in Chunks, Not Single Words

Don’t just learn “submit.”

Learn:

“Submit a report”
“Submit your application”
“The deadline to submit is Friday.”

🧠 Your brain remembers phrases, not isolated words.

2. Use the New Word Immediately

After learning a word, use it in:

• A sentence

• A conversation

• A voice note

• A comment on LinkedIn or YouTube

✅ The faster you use it, the better it sticks.

3. Make the Word Personal

Ask yourself:

• How can I use this word in my real life?

• What do I usually submit? What reports do I write?

🧠 Create personal connections to vocabulary.

4. Use Visual + Audio Tools

• 📱 Use Quizlet or Anki to create flashcards

• 🧠 Draw the word or associate it with a color/image

• 🎧 Listen to the word in context with YouGlish

5. Review Weekly, Not Just Once

Follow the Spaced Repetition Method (SRS):

• Review new words after 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 14 days

✅ This method tells your brain:

“This word matters. Keep it.”

✍️ Mini Practice

Learn the word: “handle” (verb) = to deal with a situation

Now build it out:

• 📌 Phrase: Handle a complaint / a problem / pressure

• ✅ My sentence:

“I had to handle a difficult customer today.”

• 🗣️ Say it aloud:

“How do you usually handle stress at work?”

🎯 Tip: Speak your sentences, don’t just write them.

🚀 Bonus: Use New Words in Class

Want to practice vocabulary in real conversation?

In my 1:1 fluency lessons, I help you:

• Learn vocabulary in real context

• Use it in conversation

• Get feedback and corrections

• Build habits for long-term retention

© Henry English Hub | henryenglishhub.com
Don’t just learn words—make them yours.