How can I learn English by reading?

The answer depends on your current skills and how well you learn from books and online content. Reading helps you develop vocabulary, understand the structure, and pick up nuances of punctuation and grammar from seeing how others use it. You can learn simply by engaging in active reading while trying to improve your language skills.Some people can absorb English from textbooks and develop incredible skills from reading alone. However, they’re incredibly rare, and you’ll most likely need some help and advice on your journey to fluency.If you choose to take a Promova English class, reading will also be combined with other activities to help you develop overall comprehension. For example, you’ll interact with a certified tutor who will ask you questions about the text and your opinions, improving your communication skills and expression.

How can I practice English reading comprehension?

There are several ways to improve your comprehension:Ask Questions. Start your reading with a quick skim of the upcoming text to prepare for what you’re about to read. After reading a section, quickly go through it again to see if there’s anything you missed.Skim and re-read. Start your reading with a quick skim of the upcoming text to prepare for what you’re about to read. After you’re done reading a section, quickly go through it again to see if there’s anything you missed.Look for context. Texts don’t exist in isolation and usually have many references, history, or related materials. If you can find out where the author is coming from, you can understand ideas much more quickly.Improve fluency. Spend time sharpening other skills such as listening, speaking, and writing. You can get back to reading later with a new vocabulary and awareness of the language.Lastly, taking English reading and writing classes can help you see the language from various angles and develop better comprehension by engaging with a teacher and getting feedback.

What types of English reading can I learn?

We separate reading into three types based on your purpose - why you might be doing it:Skimming. You’re reading for gist - to get the main ideas from the text. For example, you might be deciding whether a book is worth buying by skimming different chapters to see if it interests you.Scanning. You’re reading to get something in particular from the text and retain specific information. For example, you might be reading a restaurant menu trying to find a dish with shrimps in it, then you’re scanning through the text for the word ‘shrimp’.Intensive reading. You’re reading for detailed comprehension. For example, you’ve received an email from a friend who has just relocated to Canada in which he or she is telling you about their first few weeks in this country. In this case, you might be interested in all the details and even some hidden nuances and inferences, so you will be reading for detail.Extensive reading. You’re reading easy, enjoyable texts without focusing on details or doing any comprehension tasks or examining the text for vocabulary or grammar. This type of reading helps build up fluency by getting used to the language.Learning all the above techniques can help you adjust your reading style and speed depending on your purpose.

Coworker vs Co-worker

What’s the difference between them?

Coworker

Meaning:

A coworker is someone who works with you in the same workplace.

Examples:

1. My coworker and I worked together to finish the project on time.

2. My coworker and I had a friendly rivalry to see who could finish their tasks faster.

3. I enjoyed getting to know my coworker and learning from each other.

Co-worker

Meaning:

Meaning is the same.

Examples:

1. My co-worker is always willing to lend a helping hand.

2. I always count on my co-worker to be punctual.

3. I enjoy working with my co-worker because she is so supportive.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Coworker

Colleague

workmate

There are no direct antonyms for this word.

Co-worker

Colleague

workmate

There are no direct antonyms for this word.

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Coworker", "Co-worker".

Both spellings are correct, so you may use them without any doubts.

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

When to use the first word?

The word 'coworker' is used to refer to a colleague who works with you in the same organization, team, or project. It is a single word and is more informal than the other form. It would be used in more casual conversations, such as talking to your friends or family.

When to use the second word?

The phrase 'co-worker' is a more formal way to refer to a colleague. It is typically used in more professional contexts, such as in a business meeting or a formal email.

Do the words have the same pronunciation?

Yes, both words have the same pronunciation.

What are common mistakes associated with words?

Since these words are interchangable, there are no common mistakes in their usage. You may use both in different contexts and won't be wrong.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. My new ______ is called Alex and they are really helpful.

2. We have been working together on a project for the past two weeks.

3. I believe that collaboration between colleagues is key to success.

4. With the help of my ______, I was able to finish the project ahead of schedule.

5. I have learned a lot about working together with a ______ in this time.

6. I look forward to continuing to work with my ______ in the future.

1. Co-worker/coworker