Are you looking to enhance your academic English skills? Understanding and using collocations effectively might just be your key to success!
Check out my latest YouTube video (or read this blog) for an introduction to the 10 most frequently used collocations in British academic English!
Check Out My Full YouTube Video
What is a Collocation?
A collocation refers to a natural combination of words that are often used together. Think of them as partnerships between words that native speakers use without a second thought.
For instance, while we understand both “strong” and “powerful” have similar meanings, native speakers only say “strong coffee” and never than “powerful coffee.” This is because “strong coffee” has become a collocation.
Through years of exposure, native English speakers naturally know which words pair well together (and which words don’t).
When it comes to academic writing, the correct use of collocations is crucial. They lend clarity, naturalness, and professionalism to your work.
Today, we’ll explore 10 essential academic collocations in British English, based on Kirsten Ackerman and Yu-Hua Chen’s academic collocation list. Here is their full list!
Play a Role
“Play a role” or “Play a role in” signifies involvement or influence in an event or situation.
- “Climate change plays a role in rising sea levels.”
- “Technology plays a crucial role in modern education.”
- “Diet and exercise play a key role in maintaining good health.”
High Level
“High level” refers to a great amount, degree, or intensity of something.
- “The job requires a high level of attention to detail.”
- “The project demonstrated a high level of accuracy.”
- “A high level of stress can affect mental health.”
Economic Growth
Economic growth reflects an increase in a country’s production and wealth. This collocation often appears in academic discussions regarding a growing economy.
- “Sustainable policies are important for economic growth.”
- “High inflation can slow down economic growth.”
- “Technology plays a major role in economic growth.”
Use a Method
In academic English, “use a method” often details the ways research is conducted or studied.
- “Scientists used a new method to analyze the data.”
- “You should always use a reliable method for testing results.”
- “The study uses a proven method for measuring success.”
Annual Report
An “annual report” is a yearly document summarising an organisation’s financial and operational performance:
- “The company released its annual report last week.”
- “Investors carefully review the annual report before making decisions.”
- “The school publishes an annual report on student progress.”
Mental Health
“Mental health” has become a key discussion point. It refers to one’s emotional, psychological, and social well-being:
- “Regular exercise can improve mental health.”
- “Many students struggle with mental health during exam season.”
- “Workplace stress negatively affects mental health.”
Provide Information
This collocation, “provide information,” means to give details or facts:
- “The website provides information about Visa requirements.”
- “Can you provide more information on this topic?”
- “The report provides valuable information on climate change.”
Have Access
“Have access” means being able to use or reach something:
- “All students have access to free online resources.”
- “Not everyone has access to clean drinking water.”
- “Employees have access to professional training programs.”
Wide Range
“Wide range” signifies a large variety:
- “The university offers a wide range of courses.”
- “The museum has a wide range of historical artifacts.”
- “There is a wide range of opinions on this topic.”
Local Authority
“Local authority,” particularly common in British English, describes an official organisation responsible for governing a specific area:
- “The local authority is responsible for road maintenance.”
- “You need approval from the local authority to build a new house.”
- “The local authority provides funding for public schools.”
Conclusion
If you aim to sound more natural in academic English, mastering collocations is essential. They enhance clarity and professionalism in both writing and speaking.
Even in casual English, collocations can enrich your language and allow you to communicate more naturally!
Make sure to check out my latest YouTube video!
