Compound words are essential building blocks of the English language. While there is no simple rule for forming them, they can be learned and mastered by studying different categories. This guide explores various types of compound words and provides resources to help you expand your vocabulary.
Overview
Unfortunately, there is no universal rule for compound words. They really have to be learned individually. However, by categorizing them into different groups, you can develop effective learning strategies and better remember them.
Type 1: One Word Made From Two Words
These are single words that combine two separate words into one compound:
Conjunctions and Adverbial Connectors
moreover
We are going to open a new factory. Moreover, we will be creating 1,000 new jobs.
furthermore
Due to your actions your employment has been terminated. Furthermore, you will be reported to the police.
therefore
I made the mistake; therefore, I should take responsibility.
whereas
I like the red carpet, whereas my wife prefers the blue. I don’t think we are going to agree.
meanwhile
The police blocked all the exits. Meanwhile, the robbers left through the tunnel they had secretly dug.
Ever Compounds with Question Words
Ever can be used with most question words to make compound words:
whatever
You can choose whatever you like from the menu.
wherever
Wherever we go this weekend it’s going to rain.
however
However hard I try I just can’t finish this level, it’s too hard. I hate this game.
whenever
“When do you want to leave?” “Whenever you’re ready is fine with me.”
whoever
Whoever gets there first will be the winner.
Type 2: One Word Made From Three Words
These compound words combine three morphemes into a single word:
nevertheless
We may have lost this battle, but nevertheless, we will continue and win the war.
albeit
We built the house under budget, albeit two months behind schedule.
notwithstanding
We are going to sell the company, your objections notwithstanding.
heretofore
This is a heretofore undiscovered species.
wherewithal
I don’t think he has the wherewithal to run his own company.
inasmuch as
Losing my job was the best thing that happened to me, inasmuch as it challenged me to do new, more interesting things.
insofar as
I’ll support you, insofar as it doesn’t interfere with my own plans.
Type 3: Multiple Individual Words Used Together With a Single Meaning
These phrases function as compound structures, even though they remain separate words:
as long as / so long as
I’m going to take the car to the shops, as long as you don’t need it for work.
so be it
“I’m sorry but we have to split up.” “So be it. It’s been coming for a while and I think it’s for the best too.”
as well as
Mum’s coming to the party as well as Aunt Jo.
as soon as
Let me know as soon as he gets here.
in order that
I lent her the car in order that she wouldn’t have to take public transport.
Common Compound Nouns
Not Just Grammar Words
With the exception of the noun wherewithal, the compound words above are mainly grammar words. They function as adverbs or conjunctions and are often quite formal in register. However, compound words also include many compound nouns in common everyday use. For example: handbag, suitcase, airport, underground, toothpaste, babysitter, notebook, backyard, sunshine, and bedroom.
Learning Resources and Tools
To further expand your knowledge of compound words, here are some excellent online resources:
1. Merriam-Webster Dictionary
- Homepage: https://www.merriam-webster.com
- Description: A comprehensive online dictionary with detailed word definitions, pronunciations, usage examples, and word history. Merriam-Webster provides searchable compound word lists and includes expert guidance on word formation and usage patterns.
2. Oxford English Dictionary (OED)
- Homepage: https://www.oed.com
- Description: The most comprehensive English dictionary available, providing detailed etymologies and historical usage of compound words. The OED shows how compound words evolved and entered the English language over time.
3. English Grammar Today (Cambridge)
- Homepage: https://grammar.cambridge.org
- Description: An interactive grammar resource from Cambridge University Press that covers compound words, their formation rules, and usage in context. It provides real-world examples from spoken and written English.
4. Grammarly Blog
- Homepage: https://www.grammarly.com/blog
- Description: Offers free, accessible articles about English grammar rules, including detailed guides on compound words, their proper usage, and common mistakes to avoid.
5. British Council Learn English
- Homepage: https://www.britishcouncil.org/learn-english
- Description: Provides free learning materials for English learners at all levels, including lessons on compound words, interactive exercises, videos, and downloadable resources.
6. Vocabulary.com
- Homepage: https://www.vocabulary.com
- Description: An interactive vocabulary learning platform that includes compound words with definitions, example sentences, and spaced repetition exercises to help with retention.
Tips for Learning Compound Words
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Study by Category: As mentioned, grouping compound words by type helps create mental associations and improves memorization.
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Use Context: Learn compound words in sentences and meaningful contexts rather than in isolation.
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Keep a Vocabulary Journal: Write new compound words with example sentences to reinforce learning.
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Practice Regularly: Consistent exposure and practice are key to mastering compound word usage.
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Understand Morphemes: Learning the component parts (morphemes) of compound words can help you guess the meaning of unfamiliar words.
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