The 10 Best Ways to Memorize Words in Another Language
Created: Jan 25, 2025
Last Updated: Jan 25, 2025
Do you ever struggle to make new words stick in your memory? It’s a common challenge for English learners. Don’t worry though - we’ve done the hard work and rounded up the best techniques for how to memorize vocabulary in another language.
That’s right - there are plenty of ways to get those new words to stay in your memory that don’t just involve endless repetition! Let’s get into them now.
1. Learn through movies and shows
Did you know that you can learn new English words with movies and television shows? It helps introduce you to new vocabulary in the way it's really spoken.
However, it can be frustrating when you don't understand key words and have to keep pausing to look them up! That's why we created Flurret. Our platform helps you learn any unfamiliar vocabulary before you watch, so you can focus on enjoying the content while naturally reinforcing those new words in context.
Ready to try learning English through your favorite shows? Learn how Flurret works or sign up to Flurret today.
2. Use context learning
Instead of learning words in isolation, try to learn them in context. This might sound obvious but if you think about it this is how we learn our native language - through real life situations, not just in one word at a time in isolation.
Example: If you were using Flurret to learn new English words with Harry Potter, you might come across the word "bewitch."
Instead of just memorizing the literal meaning which is "to cast a spell on something", you might see it being used naturally in scenes like when Mrs Weasley bewitched the dishes to wash themselves. This makes it much more memorable.
3. Create word associations
Our brains love making connections. Try linking new words to things you already know. This could be:
- A word in your native language that sounds similar
- A funny image that the word reminds you of
- A personal memory or story connected to the word's meaning
Example: If you were trying to remember the word “umbrella” you could think about the catchy Rihanna song ‘Umbrella’!
4. Use the word chunks method
Instead of trying to memorize individual words, learn them in common phrases or "chunks." For example, rather than just learning the word "take," learn useful phrases like "take care," "take time," or "take a break."
Not only will this make the word stick in your mind but it will also help you remember the most common uses for it.
5. Write your own example sentences
When you learn a new word, try writing 2-3 sentences using it in different ways. Make these sentences personal to you if you can. For instance, about your life, your friends or hobbies. The more personal the sentence, the more likely you'll be to remember the word.
Example: If you were learning the word “adventurous” you might write down 2 example sentences like these:
- My adventurous cat is learning to explore the neighborhood
- I’m feeling adventurous today so am going to plan a skydiving trip
6. Use spaced repetition
Rather than cramming lots of words at once, space out your practice over time - it's scientifically proven to be one of the best ways to memorize vocabulary in another language.
The important thing is to reinforce your understanding of the word and then increase the length of time between the next time you check your understanding of it. For instance, you could review words:
- After 10 minutes
- After 1 day
- After 3 days
- After 6 days
Here’s a video explaining exactly how this method works.
7. Attach physical actions to words
Try acting out words when possible. This might initially feel a little silly but can really help to reinforce meanings. This works especially well for action verbs, emotions and descriptive words.
Moving while learning creates another memory connection and makes vocabulary stick better.
Example: For the word “hungry” you might rub your stomach to attach the meaning with a physical action.
8. Write out the word
This might sound like an obvious tip but it’s a favorite for a reason. The act of writing the word out has been scientifically proven to increase electrical activity in the areas of the brain associated with learning and memory.
So get old school and write out your new vocabulary. This could mean jotting it down in a notepad, writing it out for a flashcard or using the previous tip above and writing out some sentences involving the word.
9. Test your active recall
So you think you know a new word? Try testing to see how strong your recall is. For example, show yourself the word before you reveal the meaning to see if you remember it.
After identifying the meaning, challenge yourself by creating a sentence, saying it aloud, and writing it down. This uses multiple tips we’ve covered so far at once to increase your likelihood of the word making it your long-term memory.
10. Plan in short regular vocab reviews
When it comes to learning new words, little and often beats long cramming sessions every time. Try to make vocabulary practice a regular part of your daily routine, even if it's just for 15-20 minutes. We’d also suggest aiming to learn no more than 5-10 words per session to avoid overloading yourself.
This is exactly why we built Flurret to show you each unknown word multiple times before accepting that you've learned it. This spaced repetition approach matches how your brain naturally builds long-term memories.
Ready to add more words to your English vocabulary?
Remember, everyone learns differently, so try out these different techniques to find what works best for you. The most important thing is to make vocabulary learning a regular habit and to practice in ways that feel right for your learning style.
That's exactly why we love helping people learn through our library of the best English movies and TV shows - it combines several of these powerful techniques in one fun platform. Flurret helps you learn words in context, uses spaced repetition and makes sure you're learning vocabulary that's relevant to your level.
Give it a try today to see how many new words you can memorise!
