Word Associations = Powerful Mnemonics
Let’s face it: There are probably some words you have heard and used over and over
throughout your life without ever knowing the real definitions of them. However, you may
associate such words with certain images or ideas, even though you are unsure of the precise
definition.
For instance, take a word like kudos. You may have heard this word often in the context of
something like, “Kudos to everyone who helped plan this successful event.” Or, perhaps you’re
familiar with the snack of the same name. Your associations with this word help you figure out
and remember the meaning, which is praise or congratulations. Hidden within these word
associations are powerful mnemonics.
This chapter contains a list of words you may have heard at some point in your life, whether in
the classroom or from a book, TV show, website, or fun party conversation. Your job is to
come up with associations you have with the word, predict its definition, and then take a stab at
the actual definition. Try to remember what other words or ideas you may associate with them
or think about what the word sounds like. If you can’t predict the full definition of the word,
determine whether the word has a positive or negative meaning. You can use the Word List at
the end of the chapter if you don’t know the actual definition of a word. There are also answers
provided at the end of the chapter starting on this page. And before you dive into the list, here’s
an example, using the same word discussed above:
Word kudosWord Association/Sounds Like brand of granola bar; “Kudos on the award”
Predicted Definition Not sure, but it must be something positive; they
wouldn’t name a candy bar after something bad.Actual Definition praise