How to learn foreign language vocabulary effectively? The latest scientific findings.

In the era of widespread access to information, the ability to quickly and effectively master foreign vocabulary has become a key competence – both in academic and professional life. Numerous studies in cognitive psychology, neuroeducation, and linguistics show that in the memorization process we can use a variety of strategies based on how the human brain functions. The following article presents the latest scientific findings and practical tips for effective vocabulary learning.

Watch the webinar on memory techniques in language learning:

1. Human memory – how does it work?

Memory can be divided into several types and levels. In the context of vocabulary learning, semantic memory (responsible for storing word meanings) and working memory are the most important. Working memory is responsible for the ongoing processing and temporary storage of information.

• Short-term memory (STM) holds information for several seconds.
• Working memory allows us to manipulate this information and is closely related to attention and executive functions.
• Long-term memory (LTM) is responsible for durable storage, and its quality depends, among other things, on the frequency of revision and the strategies used for consolidation.

Contemporary neurobiological research (including studies using functional magnetic resonance imaging, fMRI) shows that the consolidation of memory traces (transferring information from short-term to long-term memory) is supported by well-organized revision and the engagement of multiple senses (e.g. writing, reading, speaking aloud).

2. Forgetting – the Ebbinghaus curve

One of the first scientists to describe the process of forgetting was Hermann Ebbinghaus (19th century). His forgetting curve shows that:

• The fastest decline in retained information occurs immediately after learning.
• With each subsequent hour/day, more information is lost, but the process gradually slows down.

More recent studies (e.g. Karpicke et al., 2012) confirm that systematic revision at regular intervals (spaced repetition) significantly counteracts forgetting.

3. Stages of memorization

To effectively learn vocabulary, it is helpful to remember four key stages in the memorization process:

1. Encoding – transforming a stimulus (a new word) into a form accessible to the brain (e.g. linking meaning and phonetic form).
2. Consolidation – strengthening the memory trace, including transferring it from short-term to long-term memory.
3. Storage – maintaining information in long-term memory.
4. Retrieval – recalling the word from memory (e.g. during a conversation).

Many theoretical models, including the Atkinson and Shiffrin model (the multi-store model) and Baddeley’s working memory model, emphasize the importance of repetition and varied stimuli (engaging sight, hearing, and motor skills).

4. The Holy Grail of memorization – is it possible to remember something once and for all?

Intuitively, this sounds unrealistic – learning a word once and never forgetting it. However, researchers indicate that there are mechanisms that allow information to be strongly consolidated:

• Context: strong associations with context (e.g. a story, image, or emotions) make a word harder to forget.
• Semantic connections: embedding a word within a rich network of associations (synonyms, antonyms, related words) increases the likelihood of quick retrieval.
• Regular practical use: frequent exposure in speech, text, and exercises naturally strengthens the memory trace.

Achieving a “never forgotten” status depends on the quality and multidimensional nature of the memory trace. In that sense, “once and for all” is possible, but it requires appropriate methods and engagement.

5. How many repetitions are needed to remember a word?

Different sources provide different data. Developmental studies (on children acquiring their first language) suggest that an average of around 24 repetitions is needed for a child to acquire a new word. For adults learning a foreign language, this number may vary depending on:

• The similarity of the word to the learner’s native language.
• The learning context (authentic communication vs. mechanical memorization).
• Individual predispositions (auditory, visual, or kinesthetic memory).

However, repeated exposure remains crucial. That is why systematic revision techniques such as flashcards and spaced repetition systems (Anki, SuperMemo, etc.) are so effective.

6. What can we adapt from the shisa kanko method for language learning?

The shisa kanko method originates from Japan and is used, among others, by train operators to minimize errors. It involves:

• Pointing (shisa) – physically or visually indicating the object of focus.
• Calling out (kanko) – verbally confirming the observation.

In language learning, this can be adapted by combining:

1. Pointing to the word – e.g. highlighting it in a text or selecting a flashcard.
2. Saying it aloud – pronouncing the word together with its translation or in a sample sentence.

This approach engages additional perceptual channels (visual, auditory, motor) and increases focus and awareness, improving retention.

7. The role of attention and engagement – the banknote example

Although we use banknotes daily, many people cannot recall which historical figure appears on a particular denomination. This happens because:

• Lack of conscious attention: we treat banknotes routinely, without reflection.
• Lack of emotional engagement: we do not associate them with meaningful emotions or contexts.

The same can happen when learning vocabulary if we do not consciously engage in encoding and revision. Active attention and deliberate meaning-making are essential.

8. The association method – examples

The association method is one of the most effective vocabulary learning techniques. It involves creating connections (often humorous or vivid) between a new word and something already known.

• Visual association: the English word “seal” (animal) can be imagined as a seal stamping a document with a “seal.”
• Phonetic association: the Spanish word “gato” (cat) can be linked to a funny sound or image that resembles its pronunciation.
• Chain association: creating a story in which each new word forms part of the narrative.

The more unusual and vivid the association, the greater the chance of long-term retention.

9. AI prompts supporting memorization

In the age of artificial intelligence, generative tools such as ChatGPT and other language models are increasingly used to support vocabulary learning. AI prompts can be used for:

1. Creating exercises: e.g. “Generate 10 sentences with the word X and ask me to translate them.”
2. Generating contextual stories: “Write a short story using these 5 new words so that their meanings are clear from context.”
3. Building multiple-choice tests: “Prepare a short quiz testing the understanding of 10 words in language Y.”

AI can also adapt difficulty levels based on learner progress, making revision more personalized and effective.

10. Storytelling – how it supports memorization

Storytelling has long been recognized as a powerful teaching tool. In foreign language learning:

• It provides context – words become part of a narrative.
• It evokes emotions – emotional engagement improves retention.
• It reinforces grammar structures – stories naturally contain authentic phrase combinations.

Creating short stories (even slightly absurd ones) using newly learned words strengthens both semantic and episodic memory, making learning more enjoyable and durable.

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Summary

Effective vocabulary learning is based on understanding memory mechanisms, recognizing the inevitability of forgetting, and applying proven strategies. Research highlights the importance of multiple repetitions, active attention and engagement, and contextual and associative methods.

• The Ebbinghaus forgetting curve emphasizes the need for spaced revision.
• Methods such as shisa kanko and storytelling increase focus and embed vocabulary in meaningful contexts.
• AI prompts open new possibilities for generating personalized tasks and accelerating learning.
• The association method and visualization techniques strengthen memory traces and make learning more enjoyable and effective.

Although “learning once and for all” may seem like the Holy Grail, recent findings suggest that with a conscious, multi-layered approach and a sufficient number of repetitions, it is possible to master new vocabulary effectively and permanently. The key lies in systematic practice, creativity in building associations, and the thoughtful use of modern technologies.