Collocations for Writing: ready phrases for the ten most common topics
Admin1 November 2026 2 min read
Single words rarely lift a band. Natural word partners do. Learn phrases that go together, then use them in your own sentences.
Ten topics, three phrases each
| Topic | Phrases |
|---|---|
| Environment | reduce carbon emissions, raise awareness of, protect natural habitats |
| Education | compulsory education, acquire practical skills, a well-rounded curriculum |
| Technology | rely heavily on, cutting-edge technology, bridge the digital divide |
| Health | maintain a balanced diet, sedentary lifestyle, ease the burden on hospitals |
| Work | achieve a work-life balance, job security, a competitive job market |
| Crime | deter crime, impose harsher penalties, tackle the root causes |
| Transport | ease traffic congestion, public transport network, commuter hours |
| Media | shape public opinion, spread misinformation, a reliable source |
| Government | allocate funding, introduce legislation, public spending |
| Culture | preserve cultural heritage, a sense of identity, traditional values |
How to use them
- Choose one topic per week.
- Write five sentences of your own with the phrases.
- Use two of them in a practice essay.
Mistakes to avoid
| Mistake | Better |
|---|---|
| do a decision | make a decision |
| big problem every time | serious, major, pressing problem |
| Forcing in a phrase that does not fit | Use it only when the meaning is right |
Review plan
- Day 1: learn five phrases
- Day 3: write a sentence for each, from memory
- Day 7: use two in a timed paragraph
- Day 21: test again
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Save the words you meet
Review them with spaced repetition so they stay.