Language Learning and Vocabulary: (A review)

In order to live in the world, we have to name things. Without names, the existence of an object, phenomenon, or even people is too difficult to accept. Accordingly, vocabulary is the building block of any communication in which the structure takes the position of cement to hold these bricks together. Words of a language, as Zhan-Xiang (2004) believed, are just like bricks of a high building; despite quite small pieces, they are vital to the great structure. In fact, vocabulary is the most fundamental component, without which communication is not feasible. A vocabulary comprises all the words someone knows, learns, and most important of all, uses in communication. Recent trends in foreign language learning have shifted towards building communicative skills and emphasize use of the language rather than the study of it. The new direction pursues to communicate what you know and learn through usage. This might seem obvious if not tautological to point out that in order to increase one’s facility for communicating, one needs to build up and extend one’s vocabulary (Thornburry, 2002). In communication, vocabulary is often more important than grammar. It is frustrating for learners when they discover they cannot communicate effectively because they do not know many of the words they need. Unfortunately, vocabulary is neglected in some English language courses. This is a pity because working with words can be enjoyable and satisfying for learners.