vocabulary Definition
- 1all the words that a person knows or uses
- 2the range of words used by a particular person, group, profession, etc.
- 3the words used in a particular language or subject
Using vocabulary: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "vocabulary" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
She has an extensive vocabulary and can speak fluently on many subjects.
Example
The medical vocabulary used by doctors can be difficult for non-medical professionals to understand.
Example
It's important to expand your vocabulary when learning a new language.
vocabulary Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for vocabulary
- lexicon
- dictionary
- glossary
- word stock
Phrases with vocabulary
words that a person understands but does not use in their own speech or writing
Example
Her passive vocabulary is much larger than her active vocabulary.
words used in a particular field or profession that may not be commonly understood by people outside of that field
Example
The technical vocabulary used in computer programming can be difficult for beginners to learn.
words that a person actively uses in their own speech or writing
Example
She has a small productive vocabulary in Spanish, but she is working to expand it.
Origins of vocabulary
from Medieval Latin 'vocabularium', meaning 'a list of words'
Summary: vocabulary in Brief
The term 'vocabulary' [vəˈkæbjʊləri] refers to all the words a person knows or uses, as well as the range of words used by a particular person, group, or profession. It can also refer to the words used in a particular language or subject. Vocabulary can be categorized into passive, technical, and productive categories.
