We have to accept that not all Singaporeans are good in English – written or oral. However, this should not keep us from speaking and writing the language. English is the universal language and it is imperative that we know it because it can help our career in the long run.

The good thing is that we can learn English in school. If we want to broaden our vocabulary outside school premises, we can read books and watch informative shows. English is not easy but if we constantly encounter it every day, it will come naturally.

If in this case we are having trouble with vocabulary, the English language can be confusing. We can begin by eliminating the “very” and instead use another word. Here are some words that we should avoid and rather say:

• Very fast: Instead of saying very fast, we should rather say quick.
• Very fierce: Instead of saying very fierce, we should rather say ferocious.
• Very dry: Instead of saying very dry, we should rather say parched.
• Very good: Instead of saying very good, we should rather say superb.
• Very dirty: Instead of saying very dirty, we should rather say squalid.
• Very happy: Instead of saying very happy, we should rather say jubilant.
• Very cold: Instead of saying very cold, we should rather say freezing.
• Very hot: Instead of saying very hot, we should rather say scalding.
• Very afraid: Instead of saying very afraid, we should rather say terrified.
• Very hungry: Instead of saying very hungry, we should rather say ravenous.
• Very angry: Instead of saying very angry, we should rather say furious.
• Very bad: Instead of saying very bad, we should rather say atrocious.
• Very beautiful: Instead of saying very beautiful, we should rather say exquisite.

Sometimes, we do not want to think further so we use “very” in every word for emphasis. We have to do away with that and consider the things mentioned above.