Macmillan Dictionary 7500 Words List May 2026

Overview

• In the English language, a very small percentage of words accounts for the vast majority of actual usage.
• Macmillan estimates that these 7,500 "red words" represent approximately 90% of all spoken and written English.
• This means that if a learner masters these specific words, they can understand 9 out of 10 words they encounter in daily life.

The $$onus$$ is on $$individuals$$, $$organizations$$, and $$governments$$ to $$collaborate$$ and $$create$$ a more $$inclusive$$ and $$supportive$$ environment that $$fosters$$ $$personal$$ and $$professional$$ growth."

How to Master the List: A 6-Month Study Plan

red

Unlike standard dictionary entries in black, these core words are highlighted in to signal their importance for language learners. They are further categorized into three frequency bands using a star system: macmillan dictionary 7500 words list

For language learners, trying to memorize every word in a dictionary is an impossible task. The 7,500-word list offers a strategic shortcut: Overview

Star Ratings

: Within the red words, Macmillan uses stars to indicate frequency bands: In the English language, a very small percentage

4. Why It Matters for Learners

1. the
2. be
3. to
4. of
5. and
6. a
7. in
8. that
9. have
10. I
11. it
12. for
13. not
14. on
15. with
16. he
17. as
18. you
19. do
20. at
21. this
22. but
23. his
24. by
25. from
26. they
27. we
28. say
29. her
30. she
31. or
32. an
33. will
34. my
35. one
36. all
37. would
38. there
39. their
40. what
41. so
42. up
43. out
44. if
45. about
46. who
47. get
48. which
49. go
50. me