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A few years ago I read in a book about the English language that there is a word for the difference between our reading vocabulary and our speaking vocabulary….I think it said that we know three times as many words than we actually use. Of course, I cannot remember the word. Does anyone out there know it???

Thanks! Woody246

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WELCOME WOODY


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I'd go with active and passive vocabulary. Active is the words you would come up with either for speaking or writing. Passive is the words that you'd recognize either by reading or hearing but wouldn't come up with spontaneously.

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I agree Faldage, I remember reading that somewhere.

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Quote:
But Candy, do you use those words in conversation? wink

Does this help Mr. (Ms?) 246? Teaching and Developing Vocabulary

Last edited by Owlbow; 06/02/11 02:03 PM.
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Very interesting site, Owl.


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If you mean the words (phrases) active vocabulary and passive vocabulary, yes, I do use them in conversation. But them I'm not Candy, so who am I to say?

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You speak for me too Faldage wink

why are 'they' doubting us?

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I read constantly. One of the many 'problems' in my life is the words that I read and understand, but never hear in a conversation. Even words that are often found written, just don't come up. I have always had a dictionary handy, but even then, sometimes the pronunciation that I have in my head when I am reading is not at all correct. It may be the difference between long or short vowel or it my be where the accent is placed.
It sounds perfectly alright to me as I am reading, but is nothing like the real word. It can be very embarrassing.


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That happened all the time to me, especially as a kid. e.g. the name Penelope, which obviously rhymed with antelope.

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