permanently irregular words list

less than a minute read 02-09-2024

When learning a new language, understanding the concept of irregular words is crucial. Unlike regular words that follow predictable patterns, irregular words deviate from the norm, making them challenging to master. In English, there are several categories of irregular words, particularly in verbs, adjectives, and nouns. Below is a comprehensive overview of some of the most common permanently irregular words.

1. Irregular Verbs

Irregular verbs are words that do not follow the standard rules of conjugation. Here are some examples:

Common Irregular Verbs:

Be: am/is/are → was/were → been
Have: have/has → had → had
Do: do/does → did → done
Go: go/ goes → went → gone
See: see/sees → saw → seen
Take: take/takes → took → taken

Irregular Verb Forms:

Irregular verbs can be tricky because their past forms do not conform to the usual "ed" ending. It’s important to memorize these forms to improve fluency.

2. Irregular Adjectives

Adjectives can also be irregular, especially in their comparative and superlative forms. Here are some examples:

Common Irregular Adjectives:

Good: better → best
Bad: worse → worst
Little: less → least
Many: more → most

Usage in Sentences:

"She is the best student in the class."
"This puzzle is worse than the last one."

3. Irregular Nouns

Some nouns have irregular plural forms, which do not simply add "s" or "es." Here are a few examples:

Common Irregular Nouns:

Child: children
Man: men
Woman: women
Mouse: mice
Goose: geese
Foot: feet

Examples in Context:

"The children are playing outside."
"I saw a pair of mice in the garden."

4. Tips for Mastering Irregular Words

Flashcards: Create flashcards for each irregular word to enhance memory retention.
Practice Regularly: Incorporate these words into your daily conversations and writing exercises.
Grouping: Group similar irregular words together to make learning more manageable.

Conclusion

Mastering permanently irregular words is essential for achieving fluency in English. By familiarizing yourself with these words, practicing them regularly, and using them in context, you can greatly enhance your language skills. Remember, the key to success lies in consistent practice and exposure!