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The most frequent and basic words; alone, they account for roughly 80% of all text. Next 2,500 words Very common words that are essential for advanced learners. ★ Final 2,500 words
: Interestingly, Macmillan uses a even smaller subset of only 2,500 words to define all other entries in the dictionary, ensuring that definitions remain accessible to learners [17]. How to Use the List Effectively
There is officially published by Macmillan (as of 2025). However, you can access the words in several ways:
To effectively use the Macmillan 7,500-word list, follow a systematic, tiered approach: macmillan dictionary 7500 words list
The Macmillan 7500 serves as a strategic roadmap for English proficiency.
For those at an advanced level, focusing on the 7500 red words helps transition from understanding to natural, native-like usage.
The following is a sample of 20 words from the Macmillan Dictionary's list of 7,500 words: The most frequent and basic words; alone, they
| If you want… | Do this… | |--------------|-----------| | The exact 7500 words | Search GitHub for “macmillan_7500.txt” (unofficial but accurate from many sources). | | A free alternative | Download the 1.2 – 2,800 words + supplements. | | To study with CEFR | Use Oxford 5000 (free CSV available) + CEFR-J . | | To check a word’s level | Go to macmillandictionary.com and search. |
Instead of studying random vocabulary lists, you are studying the exact words used by native speakers every day. This slashes the time required to reach a functional, confident level of English. 2. Improved Productive Skills
In English, a tiny percentage of words does the vast majority of the heavy lifting. Studies show that knowing the top 2,500 words gives you access to roughly 80% of any standard text. Expanding that knowledge to 7,500 words allows you to understand of most novels, newspapers, academic papers, and casual conversations. How to Use the List Effectively There is
It is valuable to understand that the dictionary's definitions are written using a separate, even more basic . This means that every definition, from the simplest to the most complex, is explained using only these 2,500 simple, common words, ensuring they are crystal clear and easy to understand even for learners at an intermediate level.
The Macmillan Dictionary's 7,500-word list is more than just a list; it is a powerful, research-based toolkit for achieving English fluency. It provides a clear answer to the question, "Which words should I learn?" By focusing on this high-frequency core, learners can efficiently build a vocabulary that allows them to understand 90% of the language they encounter and express themselves with confidence and accuracy. While the official online dictionary is no more, the list's legacy endures in its print editions and open-source projects like the GitHub repository. For any dedicated English learner, this list remains an invaluable roadmap on the journey to mastery.
The list is categorized into three frequency bands using a star system. Three-star words are the top 2,500 most frequent, two-star words are the next 2,500, and one-star words complete the 7,500 set. Comprehension Threshold: