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4 Word Choice Mistakes PTE Takers Frequently Make Most PTE Academic takers know the importance of having an extensive vocabulary for the high-stakes exam. It’s why they make it a point to expand theirs during their training period.
Some take note of the terminologies they frequently encounter when reading academic materials. Others research useful words and phrases online. Some even ask their PTE online test instructor for vocabulary lists to study and memorize. Few, however, take the time to practice applying what they’ve learned to their written and spoken responses. Don’t make the same mistake. Otherwise, you’ll end up committing the following word choice errors.
1. Using jargon Jargons refer to words, phrases, and expressions that are only understood by a few people. If you’re taking PTE online training classes, using jargons is one of the first things your instructor will warn you against doing. Why? Because you are taking the PTE Academic test. Emphasis on the “academic.” The language you use when you take the exam must be the kind common in formal and academic settings. Jargons definitely do not fall under these categories.
2. Using colloquialisms Colloquialisms refer to the informal language people use during casual conversations. Most of them are shortened versions of expressions (e.g., saying “gonna” instead of “going to”). Like jargons, using them during the test is a no-no. So, keep your speech and essays free of colloquialisms.
3. Using ambiguous words Having an extensive vocabulary is imperative to PTE success—not because it’ll allow you to make your statements more flowery, but because it’ll help you keep your responses clear and straight to the point. Avoid using vague terms in your compositions. For example, instead of describing something as “good,” you can use something more specific like “effective” and “valuable.” Keep these in mind during your PTE online training.
4. Using words with negative connotations Here’s a mistake that even PTE takers who strive for on-point word choice often make. Be wary of terminologies that have double meanings, especially if one of their connotations are negative. Here’s an example:
The new cream gave her skin a glowing, juvenile glow. The word “juvenile” technically has the same meaning as the word “youthful.” However, that’s not its only connotation. “Juvenile” also connotes “childishness” and “immaturity.” As such, it’s not the best word to attach to a beauty product. Don’t let poor word choice keep you from your PTE grade goals. Keep these errors in mind when you practice your writing and speaking skills during your PTE review period. Do you want to learn more ways to enhance your performance for the high-stakes exam? Enroll in one of our PTE online test training programs! Click here to check out our online courses.