Collocations are fixed word combinations that sound natural to native speakers. Learning how to use them correctly can make your English sound more fluent and native-like. But how do you remember and apply collocations effectively in the IELTS exam? Let’s explore IDP’s proven techniques to help you master English collocations with ease and lasting memory.
1. What Are Collocations?
Collocations are natural combinations of words that frequently go together in English, following specific patterns used by native speakers.
The meaning of collocations often cannot be guessed by translating each word separately.
For example, in Vietnamese we say “uống thuốc” (drink medicine), but in English, the natural way is “take medicine,” not “drink medicine.” Similarly, we say “deeply in love” instead of “strongly in love,” or “make a decision” instead of “do a decision.” These combinations help you sound more fluent and natural.
2. Types of Collocations in English
Collocations are diverse and can be categorized into several types:
Adverb + Adjective
Examples: heavily polluted, highly recommended, deeply moved
The speech at the ceremony left everyone deeply moved.
Adjective + Noun
Examples: crystal clear, pitch black, blood red
The room was pitch black, and I could not see anything.
Noun + Noun
Examples: computer science, traffic jam, public transport
I was stuck in a traffic jam for over an hour.
Noun + Verb
Examples: bomb goes off, snow falls
The snowfall was so mesmerizing that I wanted to go outside right away.
Verb + Noun
Examples: make a decision, take a break, give advice
He always gives great advice when I have a problem.
Verb + Preposition Phrase
Examples: apply for, look forward to, search for
I decided to apply for a scholarship to study abroad.
Verb + Adverb
Examples: take part in, carry out, come up with
Many students take part in extracurricular activities to improve their skills.
3. Common English Collocations You Should Know
Using collocations improves your IELTS Speaking and Listening scores. Here are some of the most common collocations:
Collocation | Meaning |
Let one's hair down | Relax |
Drop-dead gorgeous | Extremely attractive |
Make headlines | Become important news |
Take measures to | Take action |
Speak highly of | Praise |
Tight with money | Frugal |
Peace of mind | Mental calm |
Give someone a lift/ride | Give a ride |
On purpose | Intentionally |
By accident / by mistake | Accidentally |
In terms of | Regarding |
With a view to | With the aim of |
Get straight to the point | Be direct |
Take it for granted | Not appreciate |
Make up one's mind | Decide |
Pay attention to | Focus on |
Sit for | Retake (an exam) |
A good run for your money | Get value or joy from spending |
Have a chance to | Have an opportunity |
Hold good | Remain valid |
Cause damage | Create harm |
See eye to eye | Agree |
Put a stop to | End something |
Be out of habit | Lose a habit |
Pick someone's brain | Ask for advice |
To the verge of | On the brink of |
Lay claim to | Claim ownership |
Pour scorn on | Criticize |
Be rushed off your feet | Extremely busy |
Be under fire | Be criticized |
Be at a loss | Be confused |
Take to flight | Flee |
Reduce someone to tears | Make someone cry |
Take a fancy to | Start liking |
Keep an eye on | Watch over |
Kick up a fuss about | Complain |
Come what may | No matter what |
What is more | Moreover |
Put all the blame on | Blame entirely |
Make a go of something | Succeed in something |
Make a fortune | Become rich |
Rise to the occasion | Handle a difficult situation well |
Cross one's mind | Occur to someone |
Have full advantage | Benefit fully |
Pat yourself on the back | Praise yourself |
Make ends meet | Cover basic living expenses |
4. How to Learn Collocations Effectively
To learn collocations effectively, consistency and practice are key. Try following these steps:
Step 1: Use a dedicated collocation dictionary
Get a reliable resource like the Oxford Collocations Dictionary. It contains thousands of common word combinations explained clearly.
Step 2: Take notes of collocations
Record new collocations in a notebook or sticky notes in visible places. Highlight key phrases with color and categorize them by topic.
Step 3: Apply them regularly
Practice using collocations in writing and speaking. The more you use them, the better you will remember them.
5. Collocation Practice with Answers
Exercise: Choose the correct phrase to complete each sentence.
Julie said: "That guy is so attractive. I really hope he __________ me out on a date."
A. is a dreamboat
B. is drop-dead gorgeous
C. would not notice
D. is playing hard to get
→ B
Both universities have spoken of __________ the student exchange program.
A. positively
B. strongly
C. loudly
D. haphazardly
→ C
When you buy this policy, you are purchasing __________.
A. joy
B. peace of mind
C. comfort
D. satisfaction
→ B
I read the contract __________ to avoid mistakes.
A. with a view to
B. by means of
C. in terms of
D. in response to
→ D
Please do not __________ a word about this—it is highly confidential.
A. speak
B. mutter
C. breathe
D. whisper
→ C
I feel completely __________ when the new year approaches.
A. disappointed
B. energized
C. gripped with excitement
D. gripped with fever
→ B
You really should __________ for your hard work.
A. praise yourself
B. criticize yourself
C. ignore yourself
D. be modest
→ A
When the new year comes, I am __________ with joy.
A. thrilled
B. gripped with fever
C. filled with dread
D. in a daze
→ D
The minister __________ for his poor planning.
A. was penalised
B. was acclaimed
C. was under fire
D. was praised → C
The thieves quickly __________ when the police arrived.
A. ran away
B. hid
C. ran towards
D. took away → D
Master Collocations with IDP
Mastering English collocations is a powerful way to improve your fluency and sound more natural. At IDP, we provide free study resources to help you learn and use collocations effectively. With these proven learning techniques, you’ll be well-prepared for your IELTS Speaking and Writing exams.
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