CEFR CEFR Vocabulary and Lexical Competence Questions and Answers

Question 1

According to the CEFR, what does 'lexical competence' primarily involve?

Accepted Answer

Knowledge of the vocabulary of a language and the ability to use it appropriately

Answer

Lexical competence in the CEFR encompasses both the knowledge of vocabulary items (including collocations, fixed expressions, and idioms) and the ability to deploy them in context.

Question 2

Which of the following best describes a learner operating at CEFR A2 in terms of vocabulary range?

Accepted Answer

Can communicate in simple, routine tasks using a basic repertoire of words and phrases

Answer

A2 learners operate with a limited but functional vocabulary that allows them to handle familiar, everyday situations and basic needs.

Question 3

In the CEFR framework, what are 'fixed expressions' considered to be?

Accepted Answer

Pre-fabricated chunks of language learned and used as wholes, such as 'How do you do?' or 'on the other hand'

Answer

Fixed expressions are formulaic language chunks stored and retrieved as single units, which CEFR recognizes as a key component of lexical competence.

Question 4

At CEFR C2 level, how is a learner's lexical competence typically described?

Accepted Answer

Has a large vocabulary including idiomatic and colloquial expressions with good command of connotation

Answer

C2 represents mastery, including command of idiomatic and colloquial language, sensitivity to connotation, and the ability to handle unfamiliar vocabulary flexibly.

Question 5

What is 'collocational knowledge' and why is it important in CEFR lexical competence?

Accepted Answer

Knowing which words typically go together (e.g., 'make a mistake' not 'do a mistake'), enabling natural and fluent language use

Answer

Collocational knowledge allows learners to combine words naturally as native speakers do, which is a key marker of higher CEFR proficiency levels.

CEFR - Common European Framework Practice Test

CEFR - Common European Framework Practice Test

CEFR CEFR Vocabulary and Lexical Competence Questions and Answers