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.

Whiney vs Whiny

What’s the difference between them?

Whiney

Meaning:

less popular spelling of 'whiny.'

Examples:

1. He was being so whiney when his mother asked him to clean his room.

2. The little girl had an annoying whiney voice.

3. Whenever I ask her to do something, she just responds with a long whiney sigh.

Whiny

Meaning:

Having a complaining or discontented nature; peevish.

Examples:

1. The toddler had a whiny cry that could be heard all the way down the street.

2. After complaining for hours, his whiny voice got on everyone's nerves.

3. She gave an exaggeratedly whiny sigh and slumped down in her chair.

Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference

Synonyms

Antonyms

Whiney

1. Petulant

2. Peevish

3. Complaining

4. Querulous

5. Griping

1. Self-assured

2. Strong-willed

3. Stoic

4. Resilient

5. Uncomplaining

Whiny

1. Petulant

2. Peevish

3. Complaining

4. Querulous

5. Griping

1. Self-assured

2. Strong-willed

3. Stoic

4. Resilient

5. Uncomplaining

Tricks for mastery

Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Whiney", "Whiny".

1. Remember that 'whiny' is more popular spelling.

2. When in doubt use 'whiny' since it is more widely recognized.

Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words

Frequently asked questions

When should 'whiney' be used?

'Whiney' is an adjective that describes someone who often complains or expresses dissatisfaction. It can also describe someone who has a whining or complaining tone of voice.

When is the appropriate context for using 'whiny'?

'Whiny' is also an adjective that can describe someone’s behavior when they are complaining or expressing their dissatisfaction. It can also describe someone’s tone of voice when they are whining or complaining.

Do the two words share the same pronunciation?

Yes, both 'whiney' and 'whiny' are typically pronounced the same way, with the stress placed on the first syllable ('WHY-nee' or 'WHY-nee').

What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?

Both words are acceptable, so there are no mistakes. However, 'whiny' is more widely recognized so it's better to use this word.

Fill in the gaps to check yourself

1. She was always so ___ when things didnt go her way.

2. His ___ voice grated on everyones nerves.

3. She made a __ sound when she found out about her bad grade.

4. His ___ complaint made her roll her eyes.

5. He sounded so __ when he was telling his story.

6. His ___ attitude was really getting on her nerves.

1. She was always so whiny when things didnt go her way.