Collocation patterns and common verbs

Start with a mind map

The page brings together resources on words that commonly appear together. For a starting point, look at a mind map on take that includes expressions such as “take a risk” and explains them with examples. Another map uses expressions such as “take refuge” and “take heart”. Comparing the examples can help you see how the same verb appears in different combinations.

For a different verb, Collocations with give includes “give something a try” alongside an example sentence. Note the surrounding words as well as the verb when studying an expression.

Check combinations with quizzes

After looking at a map, try Identifying collocations. It asks which expressions do not collocate with verbs such as give, lay and make. Use the questions to check whether you recognize combinations, then return to a map to look at examples again.

The quiz Go, have, get, take, do, make collocations uses sentences with missing verbs, including examples about taking a jacket and taking a bus. It offers another way to practice choosing a verb in context.

Explore other patterns

Verb and preposition collocations: To lists combinations such as “contribute to”, “respond to” and “apologize to”. The page also has a flashcard deck with adverb and adjective combinations, including “absolutely wrong” and “strongly opposed”. These resources let you practice patterns beyond common verbs.

A flashcard deck on take uses questions about taking part, taking a seat and taking a look. Its prompts give you a way to think about expressions in situations rather than as isolated phrases.

Use the page within the unit

Collocation patterns and common verbs is one section of Idioms, Collocations and Expressions in English language. The maps, quizzes and flashcards on this page offer different ways to work with the collocation patterns listed here. Choose a resource that matches the combination you want to practice.