What's a Real English Word? Duolingo English Test

Aug 07, 2023 9:25 am

Hi 👋 Teacher Luke here,


Is the vocabulary question on the Duolingo English Test making you nervous?


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Image source: englishtest.duolingo.com/prepare


Don't worry! Here are my top tips to help you master this question 💪


🤔 What's a Real English Word?

First things first, "what is a 'real' word?" I get asked this question a lot!


Don't overthink it!


A real English word is simply a word with a meaning. For example,

  • Love = ❤️
  • cactus = 🌵
  • construction = 🏗

Unreal words are words that do not have a meaning. For example,

  • valatie ❌
  • trovan ❌
  • prinanter

These unreal words look like English words, but they're not because they do not have a meaning.


You will see 18 words (real and unreal), and you need to identify and select the real English words.


Strategies

Understanding the DET vocabulary section is vital. Here's how to succeed:

  • Be Ready: As soon as you see the question, the one-minute timer will begin. So be alert!
  • All Word Categories Matter: Verbs, adjectives, adverbs, plurals are all 'real'. Select any word that is real. For example, swim, swam, swims, swimming
  • Don't Guess: Do not guess because all words in the list (real and unreal) follow English spelling rules. It is therefore impossible to guess whether a word is real or not. Just select the words you know are real.
  • Double Check Your Answers: Always review your answers; it can make all the difference!
  • Build Your Vocabulary: Keep learning new words. Websites like the Oxford Learner's Dictionary and the Duolingo app can help. 📚
  • Practice with a Timer: Try practicing under real-time constraints at practice.detready.com


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Don't just take the test – MASTER it! 💪


I can't wait to hear about your high scores.


Teacher Luke

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