What is collocation?

Collocation can be simply defined as words that often go together and form a natural combination. However, the idea of collocation is not only relevant in everyday speech but also in creative writing.

As writers, understanding collocation is crucial to avoid unnatural and awkward phrasings in our prose and to ensure that our writing flows well. For example, in English, we say 'strong coffee' but not 'powerful coffee.' The words 'strong' and 'coffee' have become collocated, and we seldom break this pairing in our writing.

Collocation also extends beyond two-word combinations and includes idiomatic phrases like 'beating around the bush' and 'thinly veiled insult.' These phrases add depth and color to our writing, creating images that are well-known and understood by our readers.

One way to improve your awareness of collocation is to read widely and critically, paying attention to how words and phrases are combined in published works. This will help you understand how native speakers use the language and allow you to develop your own intuitive sense of what sounds natural.

By mastering the art of collocation, you can become a matchmaker of words, creating smart, seamless sentences that resonate with your readers.