(English by ChatGPT w/ edits)
When I was a kid, I enjoyed Pokémon cards and figurines. In the same way, now I enjoy finding new words and adding them to my vocabulary flashcard list.
When I come across new words or phrases and record them in my list, I get a little thrill—like I’ve gained something. To use another analogy, it feels like getting a new item in a game. ^^
Some of them seem like I could use them in conversation right away, while others I’ll probably never use in my life—but they’re interesting, so I want to remember them anyway.
And for some reason, I feel like the former stick in my head better than the latter. (lol)
So, I’d like to introduce some of the words I’ve recently added to my vocabulary notebook, categorized by type.
1) Words I feel I could use right away in conversation or writing
To rest one’s nerves
“〜is one to talk”
“Led by / spearheaded by ~”
To embark on
Positive reinforcement
2) Words I probably won’t use, but wanted to know
Exchange population (a demographic term referring to non-resident visitors)
Mama-san’s assistant at a bar
Giggly / squealy (overly bubbly)
Positive (negative) impact
Rash / reckless action
3) Words I’m not sure when I’ll use, but added anyway
Logical argument / argument from principle
To contribute in some small way
Extremely / exceptionally ~
To feel something deeply (down to one’s bones)
Of good character
Anyway, expanding my vocabulary sure is fun.
According to the statistics compiled by the flashcard app I use, Anki, I currently have 8,216 words in my deck, and on average I add two new words per day. (Apparently around 8,000 words is actually on the lower side—there aren’t a few people who have over 10,000!)
I treat my vocabulary notebook a bit like a game, but the fun isn’t the only reason I value it—I think it’s also an important indicator of my learning progress.
If I’m encountering new words and adding them to my deck, that means I’m challenging myself with topics and expressions that are above my current level. In other words, as long as my vocabulary is increasing, my language ability is improving.
On the other hand, if there’s a day when I don’t add any new words, there’s a high chance I’ve been slacking off. 💦
So by using vocabulary flashcards like this, I feel that I’m able to visualize the results of my studies so far.
Have you come across any interesting words lately?