How Many Words Does the Average Educated Person Know?
One often wonders about the vocabulary of an educated person. While the exact number can vary, studies and estimates suggest that an educated individual typically knows between 20,000 and 35,000 words. This range can be influenced by factors such as age, profession, and the exposure to language. Some well-versed adults might actively use about 10,000 to 15,000 words in their daily conversations, with a passive vocabulary encompassing many more words that they understand but do not use regularly.
Understanding Vocabulary
The terms 'words' and 'know' can be ambiguous. 'Words' may refer to individual lexemes or to compound words. Additionally, 'know' can be interpreted as having a full understanding of a word, whether it's active usage in conversation or passive comprehension without frequent use.
Examples of Word Usage
According to lexicographer and dictionary expert Susie Dent, the average active vocabulary of an adult English speaker is around 20,000 words, with a passive vocabulary of around 40,000 words. Even English natives typically know about 20,000 words, although this count decreases to about 5,000 very common words when used in everyday writing and speaking.
The number of words varies widely depending on the source and context:
Shakespeare: Used 28,829 different words. The King James Bible: Contains 12,143 different words. A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens: Features 10,778 different words. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe: Uses 3,520 different words. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone: Includes 6,185 different words.Engagement and Understanding
A quick online test can assess whether you know certain words. For instance, if asked if you know the word 'sedulous,' you might respond 'yes' and associate it with 'diligent' or 'hard-working.' Similarly, 'vibrissae' might be a bit more challenging. You could assume it means 'insect bristles feelers' even if you're not a scientist. These examples highlight the complexity of comprehending and using a vocabulary.
Vocabulary Test
To get a rough idea of your vocabulary, you can use online vocabulary tests. These tests can help you gauge your understanding and usage of words.
Conclusion
The vocabulary of an educated person is vast, encompassing both active and passive knowledge. Whether you fall within the range of 20,000 to 35,000 words, it's clear that a well-educated individual has a rich and diverse understanding of the language. Continuous learning and exposure to various texts and conversations can significantly enhance one's vocabulary.