TOOLBOX
The Toolbox can help you become an independent and successful learner. It has been organised alphabetically to help you find your way around it quickly. Some Toolbox items are cross-referenced to other closely linked entries. For example, if you look up antonyms, you will be directed to also look up synonyms. If you want to find exercises to practise them, use the Index at the back of the book to direct you to exercises.
Abbreviations
An abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or a phrase. Types of abbreviation: • the initials of the words are used (Republic of South Africa – RSA)
• when the word is shortened (January – Jan. or Mister – Mr). A full stop is used if the last letter of the abbreviation is not the same as the last letter of the original word.
• Many dictionaries contain abbreviations in the general list or at the back of the dictionary.
Acronyms
An acronym is a special abbreviation when the initials make a “word”. HIV Aids – HIV is an abbreviation and Aids is an acronym. Note: If an acronym is more than three letters, only the first letter is capitalised.
Active and passive voice
Verbs can be used in two ways: • If the subject is doing the action, the verb is said to be active. • If the subject has the action done to it, the verb is said to be passive.
We usually use the active voice in narrative writing. It is shorter, more direct and makes it clear who is doing the action.
The coach (subject) trained (active verb) the team well. The coach (subject) was given (passive) an award.
Adjectives
An adjective is a word that describes or modifies a noun. It may come before a noun (the tall tree) or after a linking verb (the tree is tall). If you use more than one adjective, separate them with a comma (the tall, twisted tree). Some adjectives get over-used and stop being interesting to read, like “nice”. Always try to find interesting alternatives (synonyms).
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