Word Evolution
Languages are alive! New words are born (Neologisms), and old words completely change their meanings.
Internet Neologisms smartphone
Portmanteaus extension
Semantic Shift computer
Historical Shifts history_edu
"Literally" isn't literal anymore!
(They are not actually dying. It's just for dramatic effect!)
Quick Check bolt
Mission track_changes
Mission track_changes
Mission track_changes
Mission track_changes
Video Lesson
មេរៀនជាវីដេអូ
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Recent Questions
Hi Kagna! No, please don't! Only use established neologisms that are widely accepted and found in modern dictionaries (like 'binge-watch' or 'podcast'). If you make up your own completely new word, the examiner will just think it's a mistake! edit_document
Why do words change meaning? Like "Awful"?
Society and technology change! Sometimes words are used sarcastically for so many years that the sarcasm becomes the real meaning (this is called Pejoration). Sometimes, technology creates new concepts, and we just recycle old words (like 'Mouse' for computers) to explain them! public
Is "phablet" still a common word?
Not really! That is the interesting thing about neologisms—some stick around forever (like Podcast), and some die out quickly when the trend ends. Since almost all phones are big now, we stopped saying "phablet"! smartphone
Can I make up my own words to use in the IELTS speaking test?