Word Forms & Collocations
This chapter targets two closely linked skills: choosing the correct part of speech (noun, verb, adjective, adverb) and knowing which words naturally go together. Both are essential for accurate, natural academic English.
Choosing the Right Word Form
Let the sentence slot tell you the part of speech. After 'a significant ___' you need a noun ('investment'); to modify a verb you need an adverb ('thoroughly'). Recognizing common endings (-ment, -ly, -ness) speeds this up.
Verb + Noun Collocations
Certain verbs pair with certain nouns by convention: you 'pay attention', 'make a decision', and 'do research'. Memorizing these fixed pairings prevents natural-sounding but incorrect combinations.
Building a Collocation Habit
When you learn a new noun, learn the verbs and adjectives that commonly accompany it. Reading academic texts and noticing repeated pairings trains your ear for the combinations tested here.