• ESL Advice!
  • Posts
  • Take Your English to the Next Level: Correct Mistakes, Expand Your Vocabulary, and Polish Your Grammar

Take Your English to the Next Level: Correct Mistakes, Expand Your Vocabulary, and Polish Your Grammar

Want to boost your English skills? Discover new vocabulary, grammar tips, and fun ways to learn faster in today’s newsletter.

Hello, awesome learners!

I’m glad you’re here for today’s newsletter, packed with fresh ways to improve your English. Become a free member to download worksheets and other exclusive resources anytime, anywhere easily.

100+ self-study guides!

English lesson bundle offer for limited time!

🔥 75% Off! 🔥

Promo code: OFF75

Apply the code during checkout and save big on your purchase!

View details

I didn’t knew

vs.

I didn’t know

A common error is saying “I didn’t knew,” but this is incorrect. After “didn’t,” always use the base form of the verb, not the past tense.

  • Incorrect: "I didn’t knew about the meeting."

  • Correct: "I didn’t know about the meeting."

Think of it this way: “Did” already shows the past, so there’s no need to use the past tense of the verb. Stick to the base form: “know.”

Improve your writing! ✍️

A science-based guide to writing - discover how our minds process written language to shape words, sentences, and documents.

Subscribe - free!

Play word games

Improving your vocabulary doesn’t have to be boring. Try playing fun word games like Scrabble, Boggle, or Word Search.

These games help you learn new words and practice spelling while having fun. You can play with friends, family, or even online.

It’s an enjoyable way to grow your vocabulary without feeling like you’re studying.

Elevate your child's education! 📚

Weekly tips, advice, activities, & fun! A partner for parents, a mentor for Kids.

Subscribe - free!

“Dwell”

Word

Meaning

In sentence

Dwell (Verb)

To think, speak, or write about something for a long time, often something unpleasant or negative.

Try not to dwell on past mistakes; focus on what you can do now.

"Dwell" is a useful word when you want to talk about spending too much time thinking about a particular topic, especially something that bothers you.

Use it to encourage yourself or others to move forward and not overthink situations.

Daily bite-sized wisdom! 🌠

3 key takeaways from a popular book every day - 365 books a year.

Subscribe - free!

When to use “a lot” vs. “very much”

  • Use “a lot” to talk about frequency or quantity in a positive sentence.

    • Example: "I like this book a lot."

    • Example: "She has traveled a lot."

  • Use “very much” mainly in negative sentences or formal situations.

    • Example: "I don’t like this movie very much."

    • Example: "Thank you very much for your help."

So, remember: “a lot” is for casual, positive situations, while “very much” works for negatives or polite formalities.

Weekly facts and insights! 🗞️

Stay informed and inspired to change your perspective!

Subscribe - free!

Fill in the blank.

I _________ (dwell/think) on that problem too much last night.

The answer is at the bottom of the page.


Learn business English! 👨‍💼

Get regular tips on learning modern business English related to technology and land global jobs!

Subscribe - free!

English is the only major language without a governing body.

Unlike languages like French or Spanish, which have official academies (like the Académie Française and the Real Academia Española) to regulate grammar, vocabulary, and spelling, English has no governing body. 

This lack of strict regulation is why English evolves quickly, with new words and phrases entering the language more freely. It also explains why English has so many different dialects and variations across the world!

“Language Reactor” (formerly “Language Learning with Netflix”)

Language Reactor is a browser extension that helps improve your English by turning language-learning into an entertaining experience.

It works with platforms like Netflix and YouTube, allowing you to watch shows and videos with dual subtitles in English and your native language.

You can pause the video to explore vocabulary, review translations, and even replay sections to practice listening comprehension.

This tool is great for learning vocabulary in context and understanding how native speakers use the language naturally.

This novel is a gripping and simple read for English learners. “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time” tells the story of a young boy with a unique way of looking at the world as he tries to solve a mystery.

The language is straightforward, and the story is both touching and interesting, making it easy for English learners to follow along and expand their vocabulary. You can grab it on Amazon!

“Little by little, one travels far.”

– J.R.R. Tolkien

This quote is a gentle reminder that progress happens step by step. You don’t need to learn everything at once; just keep making small improvements every day. Each little effort brings you closer to your goals in learning English.

“You have to memorize all the grammar rules to speak well.”

Not true! While knowing grammar is helpful, it’s not necessary to memorize every rule to speak fluently.

The most important thing is to practice speaking and listening as much as possible. Over time, you’ll naturally pick up the rules and patterns.

Think of grammar as a tool to help you communicate better, not as a set of rules to memorize.

Quiz answer

I dwelt on that problem too much last night.

Explanation: “Dwell” is in the past tense here, which is “dwelt.” It shows that you spent too much time thinking about a particular issue.

I'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts in the comments below. Don't forget to check out the ESL Advice Website for new learning materials!

We’re constantly striving to improve our ESL resources to help you more effectively. We’d appreciate it if you filled out this feedback form. You can also request topics you'd like me to cover in the future.

That's all for today’s newsletter! Keep practicing and exploring English every day. Remember, little steps make a big difference over time. Stay positive, and enjoy your learning journey!

Until next time, happy learning!

Warm regards,

Reply

or to participate.