Vocabulary- Collocation

Vocabulary - Collocation

Definition:

Collocation refers to a group of two or more words that go together. A simple way to think of collocation is to look at the word 'collocation' itself: co-means together - location means place. The combination just sounds right for native speakers. In order to naturalize our language and make it seem equivalent to the native speaker, it is important that the second language speakers learn the usage of collocations.

Why do we collocate words? There is no specific reason. In spoken and written communication, very often, certain words are grouped together. Most often the verbs 'make' and

'do' combine with many nouns.

e.g.                           I made a cup of coffee.

 I did my weekly shopping yesterday.

 Types of collocation

There are a large number of collocations and learning them will help a new learner to use the language frequently. Collocations can be adjective+adverb, noun+noun, verb+noun and so on. Below you can see seven main types of collocation in sample sentences.

            Adverb+adjective

            Invading that country was an utterly stupid thing to do.

            We entered a richly decorated room.

            Are you fully aware of the implications of your action?

            Adjective + noun

            The doctor ordered him to take regular exercise.

            The Titanic sank on its maiden voyage.

            He was writhing on the ground in excruciating pain.

            Noun+noun

             Let's give Mr Jones a round of applause.

             I'd like to buy two bars of soap please.

            Noun + verb

        Snow was falling as our plane took off.

        The bomb went off when he started the car engine.

            Verb + noun

            The prisoner was hanged for committing murder.

            I always try to do my homework in the morning; after making my bed.

            He has been asked to give a presentation about his work.

            Verb+expression with preposition

            We had to return home because we had run out of money.

            Their behavior was enough to drive anybody to crime.

            Verb + adverb

            She placed her keys gently on the table and sat down.

            Mary whispered softly in John's ear.

I . Fill in the blanks with the appropriate collocation given in brackets.

        To take (take/treat/say) someone for granted.

        Final (ending/late/final) warning.

        To catch (suffer/catch/feel) cold.

        To play (make/set/play) tricks on someone.

        To keep your fingers crossed (folded/crossed/twisted)

        To run (maintain/make/run) a business.

        To break (break/crack/clash) a news.

        To commit (create/serve/commit) a crime.

        To give (make/give/present) an offer.

10. To reach (hit/reach/achieve) a decision.

          Give the correct collocation with the help of the meaning given:

        To be fired from an employment - get the sack.

        To conduct something that is illegal - break the law

        To enjoy oneself greatly - have a great time

        To decline some offer - dismiss an offer