Vocabulary for A1/Elementary/Beginner English Level

Vocabulary for A1/Elementary/Beginner English level refers to the set of words and phrases that learners at this level are expected to know and use in the language. These learners are just starting to learn English and they are building their foundation of vocabulary. At this level, learners are typically introduced to basic vocabulary, including common nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. They are also expected to know basic grammar structures and be able to use them to make simple sentences. The vocabulary at this level is usually related to everyday topics such as family, home, and basic needs. Vocabulary for A1 level is usually based on the most common and simple words and phrases, allowing learners to understand and express themselves in a basic way. And as the learner progresses to higher levels, they will expand their vocabulary to understand and express more complex ideas and more nuanced meanings.

Vocabulary

Vocabulary in English language can be thought of as a toolbox that you use to express yourself and understand others. It's important to continue expanding and refining it. This means learning new words, phrases, and idiomatic expressions and understanding how to use them in different contexts. The more tools you have in your toolbox, the more effectively you can communicate and understand others. Having a broad vocabulary also allows you to understand and engage with more complex texts and ideas, giving you access to new information and opportunities. Additionally, having a strong vocabulary is essential for academic and professional success, as it allows you to express yourself clearly and persuasively in writing and speaking. Like a carpenter who continues to learn new tools and techniques to improve their craft, expanding your vocabulary is an ongoing process that will help you improve your communication skills.

Collocations

Collocations are combinations of words that frequently occur together in a specific order, creating a natural-sounding expression in a given language. These word pairs or groups are more likely to be used by native speakers than other possible combinations of the same words. A thorough understanding of collocations is crucial for language learners, as it enhances fluency and allows for more natural speech and writing.

There are several types of collocations, including:

1. Verb + Noun: In this type of collocation, a verb is paired with a noun to create a specific meaning. Examples include "make a decision," "take a shower," and "perform an operation."
2. Adjective + Noun: This collocation type combines an adjective with a noun to describe a particular quality or characteristic. Examples include "strong coffee," "heavy rain," and "bright future."
3. Noun + Noun: In this collocation, two nouns are combined to create a compound noun, such as "kitchen table," "traffic jam," and "school bus."
4. Adverb + Adjective: This type of collocation pairs an adverb with an adjective to provide more detail or emphasis. Examples include "highly unlikely," "deeply concerned," and "fully aware."
5. Adverb + Verb: In this collocation, an adverb is used to modify a verb, such as "strongly believe," "quickly run," and "patiently wait."
6. Verb + Adverb: This type of collocation combines a verb with an adverb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Examples include "speak softly," "work diligently," and "think critically."

Understanding and using collocations effectively can greatly improve a language learner's ability to communicate naturally and accurately. Recognizing these common word combinations is essential for developing fluency and enhancing comprehension in both spoken and written language.

A1 | Elementary | Beginners

CEFR A1 is the first level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), a widely used standard for measuring language ability. If you're just starting to learn English — or rebuilding from scratch — this is where you begin.

What can an A1 learner do?

At A1, you can handle the most basic, everyday communication. Specifically, you're expected to:

• Understand and use familiar everyday expressions — greetings, simple questions, common signs and instructions.
• Introduce yourself and others — say where you live, talk about people you know, describe things you have.
• Ask and answer simple personal questions — "What's your name?", "Where are you from?", "Do you have a car?"
• Have short conversations — as long as the other person speaks slowly and clearly and is willing to help.

What grammar does A1 cover?

A1 focuses on the building blocks of English grammar. You'll work with:

• Basic verb forms — the present tense of be, have, and do, plus simple regular and irregular verbs
• Simple sentence structure — subject + verb + object word order
• Common determiners and pronouns — a, the, this, my, he, she, it
• Basic prepositions — in, on, at, to, from
• Simple questions — yes/no questions and wh- questions (what, where, who)
• Everyday vocabulary and collocations — phrases that naturally go together, like make breakfast or do homework

How do you know if you're A1?

If you can read a short text like a menu or a bus sign, fill out a simple form with your personal details, and ask someone basic questions in English — you're operating at A1. If most of that still feels challenging, you're in exactly the right place.

Self-check: Try introducing yourself in five sentences — your name, where you're from, what you do, something you like, and one question for the other person. If you can do that (even with mistakes), you're solidly at A1.

What's next?

Once you're comfortable with A1 basics, you'll move toward A2, where sentences get longer, tenses expand, and you start handling more real-world situations.

To start practising, try these challenges: Are you A1/Beginner? Test your English CEFR Level!, "To be" in Present Tense, and Basics. Word Order..

Difficulty: Easy

Easy difficulty. Difficulty levels represent author's opinion about how hard a question or challenge is.