Common English Collocations

15 essential verb-noun collocations — words that naturally go together in English, like "make a decision" and "take a break" — with meanings, example sentences, and mini-quizzes.

01Make a DecisionTo choose between two or more optionsA2 02Take a BreakTo stop working or studying for a short restA2 03Do HomeworkTo complete school work assigned outside classA1 04Have a LookTo look at something brieflyA2 05Pay AttentionTo watch, listen, or think carefully about somethingB1 06Catch a ColdTo become ill with a common coldA2 07Keep in TouchTo stay in contact with someoneB1 08Give AdviceTo tell someone what you think they should doB1 09Save TimeTo avoid wasting time; to use time efficientlyA2 10Spend MoneyTo use money to pay for somethingA2 11Lose WeightTo become lighter or thinner, usually through diet or exerciseB1 12Break a RecordTo do something better/faster than anyone beforeB1 13Set a GoalTo decide on something you want to achieveB1 14Raise AwarenessTo help more people know about or understand an issueB2 15Meet a DeadlineTo finish something by the required timeB2

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a collocation?
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What is the difference between collocations and idioms?
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Why are verb-noun collocations difficult for English learners?
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How many collocations should I learn as an ESL student?
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What is the difference between 'make' and 'do' collocations?
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How can I practise English collocations?
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Are collocations tested in IELTS or Cambridge exams?
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Do collocations differ between British and American English?
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What CEFR level should I be at to start learning collocations?
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Where can I find more collocation lists on LexFizz?
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