Vocabulary for IELTS reading

Reading comprehension involves multi-tasking, and thus it can be easy for some aspects of a text to get lost. But it is just like any other skill and can be improved by practice.

Read English newspapers regularly. Make reading English books as your hobby. When you read for pleasure you automatically understand things, once you felt difficult. When you strain yourself to do something which you don’t like, you tend to ignore the nuances of it and hence cannot reap full benefits.

Tips to learn new words:

Our eBook

You can also purchase the e-book on vocabulary from our online store: Vocabulary for IELTS (Essential words for popular topics in IELTS) [pdf] Fine-tune your English with vocabulary exercises from this book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vocabulary a grading factor in the IELTS Exam?

Vocabulary for IELTS 2022: Updated List of Vocabulary Words for IELTS

International English Language Testing System is a widely accepted English proficiency test taken by students intending to pursue foreign education or employment abroad. The test assesses the candidate’s ability to communicate in English and is based on four parameters: reading, writing, speaking and listening.

However, candidates must note that vocabulary constitutes 25% of the total score in the reading and speaking test and hence must understand its importance. Candidates who aspire to attain a high score must use different vocabulary in these sections as the examiner will be assessing them on the usage of vocabulary.

Here we have compiled a list of vocabulary words for IELTS that candidates can utilise for their preparation.

Topic-wise List for IELTS Vocabulary

To achieve a band score of 7 or higher, candidates should have a wide range of vocabulary as that will help them to discuss various topics. If one is unable to appropriately use the correct words, then this becomes a major drawback and can hamper the overall score as well.

We have identified the latest and most popular topics that have been used in IELTS exam. In the list below, you will find topic-wise vocabulary words with their meaning and usage next to them for better understanding.

Phrasal Verb

Phrasal verb consists of two or three words from different grammatical groups. When all of them are combined, a different meaning is put forward and hence must be used according to the context. Besides, phrasal verbs belong to the IELTS vocabulary list and candidates can make use of them to demonstrate their command over the English language.

Before that, the candidate must try to understand the meaning of the phrasal verb as the wrong usage can reduce the band score.

Here is the list of vocabulary words for IELTS that the candidate can use:

Common Idioms

IELTS speaking section is a challenging area for many. However, it is in this section that the candidates can show their fluency, pronunciation and vocabulary of the language. Besides, idioms help in expressing our ideas more clearly and make them sound rather natural.

Nevertheless, candidates must not use idioms without understanding their meaning, as that will lead to a deduction in marks. Hence, it is advisable that candidates use it in tasks only when they’re confident about its meaning and context.

We have compiled a list of common idioms for IELTS that can be used in the speaking section. Remember when used properly they will lead to a great band score.

Collocations for IELTS

Collocations can be understood as the proper arrangement of words in a sentence or the combination of words that appear natural. They can be paired in this manner:

For easier understanding, some examples are listed below:

5 Most Common Collocation Types

List of Useful vocabulary for IELTS

Speaking vocabulary list

The speaking module tests the candidate’s ability to communicate fluently in English. However, this means that the student must be able to pronounce the words correctly without much hesitation. But that is not all: they must have a grasp over their vocabulary and use it when and where it is required as that can provide them with a good score.

Here is a comprehensive list of vocabulary words for IELTS :

To achieve a band score of 9 in the speaking section is a dream for many. Indian students specially struggle in this section. You can practise speaking English with other aspirants through our SmartTests feature.

For detailed content on how to prepare for the IELTS speaking section, you can read:

For specific content on cue cards, task type samples and latest topics, visit:

Reading and writing vocabulary list

Most candidates lose out marks as they do not use synonyms in the reading and writing section. Here is a list of popular words and their synonyms to help you expand your vocabulary for the IELTS reading and writing sections.

You can also check out our detailed guide on the IELTS Reading Section to get help on reading tips & strategy.

Use these sample papers to practise your newly learnt vocabulary in IELTS Writing Section.

Tips to prepare for IELTS Vocabulary

Candidates should follow these tips diligently while preparing for their IELTS exam. At the end of the day, attaining a good score is the stepping stone towards pursuing their dream of studying abroad.

Candidates should read English newspapers and get into the habit of reading. While reading, if they find any new word, they should note it down and look for its meaning.

Practice makes a man perfect and hence is the key to nailing a good score. Whether it’s reading, writing, speaking or listening, practising each of these sections is necessary.

Candidates should use YouTube to understand how academic words are pronounced. They can also watch English shows to learn new vocabulary.

Memorising words is an activity that should be avoided as the meaning of words change according to their context.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any vocabulary test in IELTS?

No, there is no vocabulary test in IELTS. However, a wide range of vocabulary can help score well in the exam. Candidates can follow our list of vocabulary words for IELTS to prepare for the exam.

Is 7.5 a good score?

This score shows that the candidate has a good command of their English language. Most universities across the globe accept this score.

3. Is vocabulary important for IELTS?

Ans. Yes, Vocabulary is important as it covers up to 25% of the total score in IELTS. It is the only topic common for both the Speaking and Writing sections.

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Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS pdf

There’s no doubt that you should use a few advanced words in the IELTS or PTE test. Many candidates find it to be a daunting(difficult) task. However, in the last ten years of training IELTS candidates, I have realised that it is not so difficult. You know, it’s not the word meaning that matters, but instead it’s the WORD USAGE that counts. My point is, you may memorise 101 words but if you are not able to use them in your sentences then it’s not worth the effort.

In the Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS pdf, you would find a sentence with each word meaning, along with a relevant picture. I would recommend that you use these words in your IELTS Writing and IELTS Speaking sections.

Few tricks to improve vocabulary

Now, that you have your copy of the Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS pdf, you might want to know how I continuously improve my vocabulary. Follow the steps below, as ardently as a doctor’s prescription and you would change for the better.

1. Read the Newspaper: Yes, a decent English newspaper would have more than enough words to learn. As an IELTS trainer from Kochi, I make sure that all my students read an article daily. Believe me, this has worked wonders for many who struggled to get over the 6.5 band score in IELTS.

2. Take baby steps: A list of word meanings is surely helpful but it might not be effective for all. For most of us, this long list would be overwhelming. Instead, consider just three to five words a day, and be diligent in using those words throughout the day. A smaller list of words is easier to comprehend and eventually makes learning more enjoyable.

3. Learn “word usage” instead of meanings: Knowing word meanings is good but what’s the point if you can’t use them? Improve your vocabulary by searching for sentences with the word you intend to learn. Every time I see an unfamiliar word, instead of searching for meanings, I try to find sentences with that particular word. For instance, try finding sentences for the word ‘nuance’ in google, your search keywords should be — “nuance in a sentence”. You should see a link from sentence.yourdictionary.com, click on it, and go through a few of the sentences. Try and figure out the meaning of nuance with these sentences. Then, go ahead and search “nuance meaning”.

4. Visualize the word: Another concern here is the retention of words, most tend to forget a word, as soon as they learn it. This happens because you don’t frame a picture with the word. Try to imagine the word, to give you some perspective, the word MEANDER means to follow a zig-zag route, try to imagine a river flowing in a zig-zag path. This picture may help.

5. Add, Multiply and be fruitful: The last tip for today is to use the words you learnt, together. Build a sentence with two or three words that you learnt today. Write it down, trust me, it helps.

Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS or PTE: To help you begin, I have compiled a picture book (Pictionary) of 101 words with their meanings and also included a simple sentence. A picture that relates to the word presents you with a better understanding.

Download this free e-book with 101 words and meanings with pictures and improve your vocabulary for IELTS or PTE. Drop in your name and email id to get the e-book link on your email.

Justus (pronounced as just – us)

Justus has talents that excite wonder and admiration. Founder of Ask Learning, he is a wiz-kid who later found his passion in writing. As a calm and diligent individual, most students find a guiding light under his leadership. He teaches crafty structures in IELTS writing and gives a complete hand holding in it. He pulls off amazing methods to cope with grammar troubles students usually have. You may contact Justus on his Official email id.

Angels School of Knowledge – No other coaching, just IELTS training! We are a language school located in Kochi, Kerala, and our entire focus is on IELTS training. Being focused on IELTS makes us the best IELTS Coaching centre in Kochi. Around 80% of our students score a band 7 or higher in IELTS. We are known to provide the most desirable IELTS classes in Kochi, both online and offline. Our personalised IELTS training would let you score higher in the IELTS test and make you cross the dreaded band 7 in IELTS. If you are looking for an 8777 in IELTS General or a 6.5 in IELTS Academic, then we are your best bet!

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IELTS Vocabulary

IELTS Vocabulary is not assessed as a separate module on the test but does comprise 25% of your total score on the Writing and Speaking tests, and is therefore essential. The examiners will assess your ability to use a wide range of appropriate vocabulary and use those words accurately.

What Does Band 9 IELTS Vocabulary Look Like?

IELTS Vocabulary: Free Mini-Course

In this free 3-day mini-course, I’ll teach you everything you need to know about IELTS Vocabulary so that you can improve your skills from home and get the score you need.

By the end of this mini-course, you’ll understand:

Watch until the end to get my free Vocabulary Improvement Plan!

Learn IELTS Vocabulary in 6 Steps

Choose a book, TV show, radio show, podcast, YouTube series or magazine that interests you. People learn more effectively when they enjoy what they are doing, so don’t pick something boring!

It doesn’t have to be expensive, just somewhere for you to record your notes every day.

Read/watch/listen to whatever you chose in Step 1 and pick out 15 words you don’t understand. Try to guess what they mean from the context. (This step is very important because it will help you remember the new words.)

Note the 15 new words down in your notebook.

Look up the new words in an online dictionary. Beside each word, note the meaning, an example sentence or two, collocations, synonyms, antonyms, and pronunciation. You can also draw pictures – whatever helps you to remember the word.

Review the new words after one week, two weeks and then one month. Practice using them in a sentence.

Follow this simple strategy for 5 days a week and you will have 300+ new words in your notebook after just 1 month. After 6 months, you will have learned almost 2000 new words!

How Word Lists Can Lower your Score

If you type ‘IELTS vocabulary’ into Google, you’ll find 1000s of websites with long lists of complicated words. Most of these websites will let you believe that their ‘Word Lists’ or ‘Band 7 Vocabulary’ will boost your IELTS score…

But these websites are NOT helping you.

After years of marking IELTS essays, I can promise you that learning a few words from a list you found online will never increase your score.

The only way to effectively learn new words and use them properly is by learning them from context, or in other words, from real sources of information. NOT lists.

Did you know?

The human mind can only effectively remember around 15 new words in a foreign language per day – any more and you won’t learn them properly and make mistakes.

What happens if I learn IELTS word lists?

In the past, many of my students have downloaded long lists of words or ‘Band 7 Vocabulary’ with the hopes that they could simply learn new words by memorising them. The result was always the same: they would try to use these new words in a sentence and get them completely wrong.

It doesn’t matter how ‘complicated’ your vocabulary is – IELTS examiners can tell when you use a word incorrectly and will give you a lower mark if you make lots of mistakes.

How should I learn new IELTS Vocabulary?

In my experience, the 6-Step Plan above is the most effective way of improving your IELTS Vocabulary. It has helped thousands of my students get the scores they need!

You can also click the button below to download my FREE IELTS Vocabulary Improvement Plan:

IELTS Vocabulary Word Circles

I analysed all of the Task 2 papers from the last few years and established that there are 10 common topics.

Below you will find a list of these common topics – click on them to find 20 words that are linked to each common topic.

Here is an example:

Each word is visually represented and I have also included synonyms, antonyms, meanings, collocations and example sentences.

Below are a list of topics of common IELTS vocabulary:

Note that these are not definitive lists or a complete set of words that will help you get a high score in the test. These are to demonstrate how I use the vocabulary improvement methods outlined on this page to analyse common topics.

Is Vocabulary Important?

Vocabulary makes up 25% of your total mark in the Writing and Speaking tests, so the answer is yes.

Also, did you know that the Listening and Reading tests are really vocabulary tests too? Take a look at the table below:

In the left column, you’ll find words in the question from an official IELTS reading test. On the right, you’ll find words that were used in the text.

As you can see, many synonyms are used in the IELTS exam and are needed to answer the question. Therefore, you MUST have a wide-ranging vocabulary in order to do well on the Listening and Reading tests.

Online Sources of Information

I know that many of you might live in countries with a limited number of good English bookshops. However, there are lots of online sources that you can use. The great thing about using online materials is that you can choose exactly what you want and never get bored.

Below are a few of my favourite websites for reading online and all of them are connected to the most common topics:

You can also keep up to date with current events by reading the news every day. The news always uses relevant vocabulary:

Finally, podcasts are an invaluable and entertaining source of information. Check out my article below on how you can use podcasts to help you improve your English (it also includes a list of my favourites!).

Summary

The infographic below is a quick summary of how to learn new vocabulary before your IELTS test.

You might also be interested in:

Next Steps

For more personalised help with your vocabulary skills, send me an email at [email protected] and I’ll be happy to help you out.

I also recently created a comprehensive step-by-step Vocabulary Course for my VIP students. Get in touch to hear more about it!

IELTS

You may ask how can I ​improve my English vocabulary? or Which is the best book for IELTS vocabulary? or How can I improve my grammar skills?

In this article, IELTS Game will mention the best vocabulary books for IELTS to study from to increase your vocabulary for beginners, intermediates, and advanced levels.

So, let’s started with best series, and you can download all IELTS vocabulary books pdf for free through direct links on google drive.

Vocabulary books

Table of Contents

1. English Vocabulary in Use book Series

English Vocabulary in Use is a family of self-study and classroom texts for vocabulary development.

The books follow the successful format of the English Grammar in Use titles with presentation of new vocabulary on the left-hand pages and practice exercises on the facing right-hand pages.

There are currently 4 levels of English Vocabulary in Use from Elementary to Advanced plus a book for academic vocab.

The book was written by Felicity O’Dell and Michael McCarthy and published by Cambridge University Press.

The series has been widely used by English language students, especially those from non-English-speaking countries, as a practice and reference book.

The book has achieved excellent reader acceptance because of its accuracy and simplicity.

The Series contains

a. English Vocabulary in Use with answers pdf book [basic]

English Vocabulary In Use Elementary book has been written to help you learn new vocabulary.

You already know hundreds of English words, but to speak and write English in normal situations you need at least 1,000 to 2,000 words.

In this book, there are around 1,250 new words and phrases for you to learn. You will find them on the left-hand page of each unit.

Every new word or phrase is used in a sentence, or in a conversation, or has a picture with it, or has some explanation of what it means.

On the right-hand page, there are exercises and other activities to help you practice using the words and to help you to remember them.

The book has been written so that you can use it yourself, without a teacher.

You can do the units in any order you like, but it is a good idea if you start with Units 1 and 2 first, as they will help you to work with the rest of the book in the best possible way.

Download English Vocabulary in Use Basic Book PDF

b. English Vocabulary in Use with answers pdf book [Elementary]

A self-study reference and practice book for Elementary learners of English, covering all areas of language which students at this level find difficult.

English Vocabulary in Use elementary contains 60 units of vocabulary reference and practice self-study and classroom use by CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS.

In this book, there are around 1,250 new words and phrases for you to learn.

You can do the units in any order you like

Download English Vocabulary in Use Elementary Book PDF

2nd Edition

c. Vocabulary in use intermediate book with answers [Pre-intermediate & Intermediate]

A self-study reference and practice book for Pre-intermediate and intermediate learners of English, covering all areas of language which students at this level find difficult.

This substantially revised and updated vocabulary book retains the clarity, simplicity and accessibility of the first edition, adding to its new and redesigned units and appendices, modified right-hand page exercises and additional exercises.

The vocabulary in use for pre intermediate and intermediate students by Stuart Redman contains 100 units containing the most important English vocabularies, which will help you in your IELTS preparation.

Download English vocabulary in use pre intermediate and intermediate Book PDF

1st Edition

2nd Edition

d. English Vocabulary in use upper intermediate book with answers [Upper intermediate]

Download English Vocabulary in use Upper Intermediate Book PDF

e. English Vocabulary in use advanced book with answers [Advanced]

A self-study reference and practice book for advanced learners of English, covering a wide range of Vocabulary in English language which students at this level find difficult.

Download English Vocabulary in use Advanced Book PDF

f. English Vocabulary in use upper intermediate and advanced book with answers [Upper intermediate & Advanced]

Download English Vocabulary in use Upper intermediate & Advanced Book PDF

g. Academic Vocabulary in use book with answers [Academic]

Academic Vocabulary in Use Second Edition is the perfect study aid for anyone using English for their academic work.

Ideal for students of any discipline, this second edition has been updated to refle ct changes in education, technology and communications, includes a selection of new reading passages, and is now in full colour.

50 easy-to-use, two-page units give clear explanations of new vocabulary, along with a variety of practice exercises.

A comprehensive answer key, and phonemic transcriptions to help with pronunciation, make it perfect for self-study as well as for use in the classroom.

This book is designed for students at good intermediate level and above, and is also useful for those preparing for IELTS and university entrance examinations.

Download Academic Vocabulary in use Book PDF

2. Test your English vocabulary in use series

A classic developmental skills text for beginner, pre-intermediate, intermediate, upper intermediate, and advanced students of English.

This book provides a series of tests on different aspects of English vocabulary at
elementary, pre-intermediate, intermediate, upper intermediate, and advanced level.

It is based on the vocabulary presented and practised in the units of English Vocabulary in Use series.

There are references in the contents pages and in each test to show you which unit or units each test is based on.

In a few cases, vocabulary items are included which have not been presented in English Vocabulary in Else and, when this happens, the instructions for the exercise suggest that you may use a dictionary if you wish.

You can, of course, use these tests even if you have not been working with English Vocabulary in Use but are simply interested in assessing your knowledge of the vocabulary area covered by the test.

Research has shown that you need to meet a word at least 7 times before you know it properly.

Doing exercises like these, that practise words and expressions that you have already encountered, is a useful way of helping yourself to fix the vocabulary you are working on in your long-term memory.

In this book series “ Test your English Vocabulary in use pdf “, there are three books, one for each level:

List of Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS PDF | Englishan

He has a deeply ingrained dislike of small children.

She managed to scramble over the wall.

Hordes of children were running round the building.

The report itemizes 23 different faults.

He has a laconic way of speaking.

He got no advantage out of it; he did it from pure malice.

The speaker seemed completely nonplussed by my question.

The opposition leader criticized the government’s proclivity for (towards) spending money.

They were attacked by marauding tribesmen.

Only the most ingenuous person would believe such a feeble excuse.

The court found the doctor guilty of gross negligence.

I like to do things for myself and not feel beholden to anyone else,

It was an ineffable display of fireworks.

She was morose, pale, and reticent.

There is a sharp cleavage in our society between the rich and the poor.

Their marriage ended because they were simply not compatible.

She is young enough to be malleable.

He is sadly unaware of the dynamics of political change.

The parents went through a terrible ordeal when their child was kidnapped.

The parents went through a terrible ordeal when their child was kidnapped.

Film producers protested against the straightjacket of censorship.

The doctor hit my knee with a hammer to test my reflexes.

He gained a lot of kudos by winning the essay competition.

The antithesis of life is death.

For God’s sake stop dithering and make up your mind.

You have made a grievous mistake, which could affect the rest of your life.

The film’s plot hinges on a case of mistaken identity.

His activities have been seriously circumscribed since his illness.

Lax security allowed the thieves to enter.

That he has been dismissed is a brazen lie.

Is he stupid or is he being deliberately obtuse?

His delinquent son proved to be his nemesis.

He is always meticulous in keeping the records up-to-date.

He had to suffer an ignominious defeat.

A person suffering from psychosis loses touch with reality.

Her admirers are legion.

He got no advantage out of it; he did it from pure malice.

They detonated the bomb and destroyed the bridge.

Don’t waste time by asking futile questions.

Her neurosis is telling upon her health.

Our people are in no need of richer nations largesse.

The proliferation of nuclear weapons should be discouraged.

The parents were in a state of euphoria after the baby was born.

Accusing us of being disloyal to cover his own sorry behaviour is truly execrable.

This is no time for levity; we have important matters to discuss.

He is sadly unaware of the dynamics of political change.

The antithesis of life is death.

The new law allows firms a lot less latitude than before infixing the price of their goods.

She was morose, pale, and reticent.

You have made a grievous mistake, which could affect the rest of your life.

For God’s sake stop dithering and make up your mind.

I mustered (up) my courage and walked onto the stage.

He has a pragmatic approach to management problems.

The film’s plot hinges on a case of mistaken identity.

These days he is not in the mainstream of politics.

Is he stupid or is he being deliberately obtuse?

He had to suffer an ignominious defeat.

My decision is irrevocable.

There was a motley collection of books on the shelf.

There we met some trainee engineers with varying degrees of computer expertise.

I mustered (up) my courage and walked onto the stage.

These horror videos have a pernicious effect on children.

It is a colossal waste of money.

After the fire there wasn’t much furniture left worth salvaging.

He knows how to manipulate the audience.

Our people’s support is a bulwark against the enemy.

The question of changing the rules was mooted at the meeting.

She had to learn that her wishes did not take precedence over other people’s needs.

His basic gambit is to give them presents before the interview.

When were women enfranchised in Britain?

He reflected for a moment and then began to speak again.

He slowly gained ascendancy in the group.

To see someone killed is a very harrowing experience.

I never saw a more loquacious woman than she.

She languished in prison for fifteen years.

I never saw a more loquacious woman than she.

The little dog was floundering around in the snow, so I picked it up.

The busy road is a menace to the children’s safety.

His lecture was a jumble of confused ideas.

This look contains a substantial exegesis of the poem ‘Waste Land’.

This much reviled novel is remarkable in many ways.

His lecture was a jumble of confused ideas.

To see someone killed is a very harrowing experience.

He belongs to a small coterie of artists.

Nothing could induce her to be disloyal to her husband.

Pakistan has a history of intrigues and putsches.

My decision is irrevocable.

The work on the new dike is in progress.

It is a colossal waste of money.

These days he is not in the mainstream of politics.

Don’t waste time by asking futile questions.

In order to validate the agreement both parties signed it.

These horror videos have a pernicious effect on children.

Our people are in no need of richer nations largesse.

There is a nuance of greater uncertainty in “I might do it” than in “I may do it”.

The government wants to spend more on defence: the corollary of that statement is that they want to spend less on everything else.

He is obviously trying to ingratiate himself with the boss.

The little dog was floundering around in the snow, so I picked it up.

The club is one of the last bastions of male chauvinism.

It is incumbent on/upon the purchaser to check the contract before signing.

IELTS Relationships Vocabulary

February 14, 2013 By PeterT

IELTS Relationships vocabulary

Part 1-style questions

Examiner: Do you see your friends very often?
Louisa: Yes … we meet up most weekends … we all get on really well and have a lot in common so we’re always happy doing the same things and going to the same places.

Examiner: What do you like about your close friends?
Anna: I think we enjoy each other’s company … we see eye-to-eye on most things so we rarely fall out with each other.

Examiner: Have you known each other long?
Amy: Most of them yes … although my closest friend Carrie … we struck up a relationship at college and got on like a house on fire … but yes … my other friendships go back years to when we were at school.

Part 2-style task

Describe a person you are very close to. You should say:

and say what it is about them you like so much.

Reiko: I’d like to talk about my boyfriend … Jose … we got to know each other at University almost 4 years ago … we were in the same department … initially we were just good friends and used to go out in a group with our other friends … when Jose went back to Spain for the holidays we would keep in touch with each other … then one year he invited me to come to Spain with him … and that’s when we fell for each other I think … so you couldn’t really say it was love at first sight as it had been over a year since we’d met … but we really hit it off and by the time we got back to university in September we were able to tell all our friends that we were in a relationship … what do I like about Jose … well he’s very kind … very funny … and very supportive … and we’re really well matched in our interests … he hasn’t popped the question yet though … we’ve talked about getting married and I think we’re both ready to settle down and have children … we’ll just have to wait and see …

Part 3-style questions

Examiner: Do you think marriage is still as important as ever?
Cristine: Yes … it certainly is in my country … I think the problem for some people is a lack of commitment … all relationships have their ups and downs …. but some people prefer to break up rather than working at the relationship.

Examiner: What do you think is the ideal time to get married?
Terry: Personally … I think you should wait until you’ve found yourself first … decided if you want a career … perhaps do some travelling … you should do this before tying the knot … although if you fall head over heels in love plans like these can easily be forgotten.

Examiner: Is it important to keep in contact with our friends when we’re in a relationship?
Maria: Absolutely … it’s so easy to drift apart from your friends when you fall in love … but I think both partners should try not to lose touch with their friends … that’s the best way to have a healthy relationship with your partner.

Definitions

Next Step?

Test yourself on topic vocabulary to talk about relationships. Sign up to IELTS Speaking: Advanced for vocabulary tests and whole lot more!

IELTS

Vocabulary for IELTS exam is one of the main topics that you should study while preparing for the exam.

IELTS Game has published its first book “IELTS Vocabulary pdf: 2000 words to score 7 – 8 in IELTS exam“.

In this book, you will find a list with the most common vocabulary for IELTS with more than 2000 vocabulary essential for IELTS in 25 different topics, which will help you to score band +7.5 to 8.

Before downloading the book, let’s talk about the importance of vocabulary in IELTS exam.

IELTS Vocabulary – Is It Necessary To Study?

IELTS exam contains four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

For each section, you should have a strong background about vocabulary so you can deal with it and score a high band 7 – 8.

Vocabulary in the IELTS Listening section

Listening section of the IELTS exam consists of four parts, the first part is the easiest and the last one is the hardest.

You will hear a wide variety of IELTS words with different speeds and usually with the British accent.

In a few cases, you may hear one record with the Australian accent.

You will hear numbers, letters, names, directions, mono speech, and conversations using daily language, as well as academic and scientific compound terms particularly in part 4.

IELTS vocabulary in the Reading section

The reading section in the IELTS test contains three reading passages with 40 questions and you should answer all these questions in 1 hour.

The average time for each reading passage is 20 minutes, and many IELTS instructors prefer to take a maximum of 6 to 8 minutes to read the passage completely to save time to answer the question.

You can not do this fast reading without a good knowledge about the advanced vocabulary for IELTS.

IELTS vocabulary in the Writing section

As you know, there are four criteria to evaluate your IELTS essays for task 1 and task 2.

One of these criteria is called lexical resource, which evaluates the words you write in your essay, how rich your vocabulary is, and to what extent you know how to use it.

Choosing the right words in the context, using synonyms, and avoiding tautology will increase your final score.

Vocabulary will reduce your IELTS writing score if:

Vocabulary for IELTS in the Speaking section

Again in the speaking section, lexical resource or vocabulary using is one of the criteria on which the IELTS examiner will give you the final score according to it.

To get a high score on this criterion, it is necessary to know a wide variety of terms on the topic of discussion.

You should know a variety of vocabulary and synonyms related to the common topics of the speaking part.

Just remember, the more advanced IELTS vocabulary you use correctly, the higher score you will get.

Download IELTS Vocabulary pdf for free

In this book, you will find useful synonyms for ielts band 7-9 pdf free download with ielts vocabulary list 2000 words in 25 different topics divided into band 7 and band 8 vocabulary with the meaning of each word.

IELTS Vocabulary

Free Lessons, Practice Activities & Topic Lists

This page contains links to all my IELTS Vocabulary lessons to help you quickly find what you need.

Everything has been created to save you time as you prepare for your IELTS exam and to give you the skills and practice you need to achieve a high score.

IELTS Vocabulary Topic Packs

Each pack contains:

1. Word lists – with explanations & sample sentences

2. Speaking questions

4. Reading text & questions

5. Listening recording & questions

6. Vocabulary exercises

Learn vocabulary for common topics while also getting valuable practice answering the different types of IELTS questions.

IELTS Vocabulary Lessons

Key IELTS Vocabulary

The top 6 types of vocabulary you need to learn and why. More.

How To Learn Vocabulary

7 best ways to learn vocabulary & avoid the big mistake most people make. More.

Important Vocabulary for the Writing Test

Academic Task 1 Essays

Learn key vocabulary for a high-scoring essay. Word lists & a downloadable PDF. More.

Letter Writing Vocabulary

Learn useful phrases to help you achieve a high score. Also, know how to start & end your letter. More.

Important Vocabulary for the Listening Test

6 Types of Problem Vocabulary

Listening exercises to help you recognise & learn problem vocabulary. More.

Map & Plan Vocabulary

Learn essential vocabulary of location & direction. More.

How to use these topic vocabulary lists

These vocabulary lists are not intended for you to go away and try to memorise all the different words and phrases. That’s not what learning IELTS vocabulary is all about.

I have created them as a resource for you to use when answering practice questions on the respective topics.

Focus on the words and phrases you find most useful and most comfortable using. Add them to your vocabulary notebook and learn them properly, but don’t waste your time trying to memorise them all.

IELTS Vocabulary Videos

If you prefer to learn by watching and listening, you can study the main lessons by watching my vocabulary videos.

6 Key Types of Vocabulary

What to learn and why

Top 6 types of vocabulary

How To Learn Vocabulary For IELTS

7 best ways to learn vocabulary for IELTS

The big mistake & how to avoid it

How to record new vocabulary

Vocabulary For Task 1 Essays

Percentages, proportions & approximations

Letter Writing Vocabulary

6 Types of Problem Vocabulary

Time, Numbers, Prices

Dates, Letters, Addresses

Vocabulary of location

Vocabulary of direction

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“After listening to your videos, I knew I had to ditch every other IELTS tutor I’d been listening to. Your explanations are clear and easy to understand. Anyways, I took the test a few weeks ago and my result came back: Speaking 7, listening 9, Reading 8.5 and Writing 7 with an average band score of 8. Thanks, IELTS Jacky.» Laide Z.

IELTS Vocabulary: The Complete Guide

What is IELTS vocabulary like? Before I give you an answer, there’s one thing you should remember: each section of the IELTS—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking—has its own unique mix of vocabulary.

Still, these sections do have one thing in common: each part of the IELTS features either academic vocabulary, conversational vocabulary, or a combination of both. Download our FREE IELTS vocabulary PDF below, then read on to find the word lists and resources to help expand your IELTS vocabulary.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Click the links below to go to each section of our guide.

Vocabulary by IELTS Topics (Academic and General)

There are many different IELTS word lists out there, and each list has a different number of words. So, exactly how many words do you need to know for the IELTS? The answer is that you can’t know. There’s no exact number of words that is guaranteed to give you full mastery of vocabulary for the test. In general, the more words you know, the better. Check out these word lists with comic illustrations to start with some of the most important types of vocab!

Here is a helpful video we’ve made that introduces you to some common vocabulary words you’ll encounter.

IELTS Vocabulary by Section

IELTS Writing Task 1 Vocabulary Lists

In IELTS Academic Writing, the vocabulary for Writing Task 1 is related to summarizing factual information. The task requires you to describe the contents of a detailed informational graph or chart. This means you need to write a factual, source-based essay. You’ll be required to use “reporting verbs,” or verbs that describe the way information is given. For example, you might say “the chart illustrates…” or “the graph presents…” or “the table demonstrates….” You’ll also need to use adjectives such as “approximately” or “gradually” to describe data, or changes to data over time.

Here are some great word lists and guides for Academic Writing Task 1:

In contrast, vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 1 on the General Training test is more informal and conversational. For General Training, the first Writing task involves personal and professional emails and letters.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Vocabulary Lists

For both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training, the second Writing task is the same. Writing Task 2 vocabulary should be appropriate for a short, university style essay.

What’s important here is that you are good at using written vocabulary in the right context. And we have specific vocabulary resources for specific Task 2 question types:

IELTS Speaking Vocabulary Lists

Using IELTS Speaking vocabulary is a unique challenge, as you will be tested on your vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation during a short, in-person interview. Here are some sample vocabulary phrases you can use for IELTS Speaking:

IELTS Listening and Reading Vocabulary Lists

It’s no secret that both the Academic and General Training IELTS Reading sections are full of academic vocabulary. However, General Training reading passages also contain some conversational vocabulary. Here are some conversational vocabulary examples for General Reading from the official IELTS website:

Likewise, on both tests, the IELTS Listening section contains both academic and conversational vocabulary. You’ll hear university-style lectures (academic) as well as conversations related to business (conversational).

Because the types of vocabulary you’ll encounter in Reading and Listening are so broad, we recommend using broader IELTS vocab resources to study for these sections, rather than anything specifically for one section. Learn more about the types of Listening and Reading vocabulary you’ll need to study in the linked post, or keep reading to get our FREE IELTS vocabulary PDF.

Free IELTS Vocabulary PDF

The Magoosh IELTS Vocabulary PDF is a great resource with vocabulary word lists and advice for each section of the IELTS. Did we mention it’s free? Click the button below to access the vocabulary PDF!

Additional Vocab Resources

Here are some other posts from our blog that cover IELTS vocabulary:

In addition to these, Magoosh IELTS offers free flashcards for over 600 common IELTS words. So what are you waiting for? Check out the Magoosh IELTS Vocabulary Flashcards online right now, or get on your phone and download our app for Android or Apple.

IELTS Vocabulary Books and Lists

As you look for the best IELTS books and resources, think about how these resources can help you build your vocabulary, directly or indirectly. Cambridge has made an especially good official IELTS vocabulary book, “Vocabulary for IELTS.” I own a copy of this book, and I highly recommend it.

Here are some IELTS vocabulary word lists to check out:

The Takeaway

IELTS vocab skills lead to exam success. There are many good resources, both here at Magoosh and in other places, that can help you learn IELTS vocabulary. And this article is a good resource in and of itself, so much that we recommend it as a supplement to our IELTS study schedules, especially the one-week IELTS study plan.

To truly master IELTS vocabulary, memorization exercises and flashcards are helpful. But there’s far more to vocabulary than just memorization. To really shine on the IELTS, make sure you are ready to not just recall vocabulary, but also to understand vocabulary in context. And of course, be prepared to fluently use IELTS English vocabulary in context, in your own writing and speech. Good luck!

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David is a Test Prep Expert for Magoosh TOEFL and IELTS. Additionally, he’s helped students with TOEIC, PET, FCE, BULATS, Eiken, SAT, ACT, GRE, and GMAT. David has a BS from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and an MA from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. His work at Magoosh has been cited in many scholarly articles, his Master’s Thesis is featured on the Reading with Pictures website, and he’s presented at the WITESOL (link to PDF) and NAFSA conferences. David has taught K-12 ESL in South Korea as well as undergraduate English and MBA-level business English at American universities. He has also trained English teachers in America, Italy, and Peru. Come join David and the Magoosh team on Youtube, Facebook, and Instagram, or connect with him via LinkedIn!

Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS Speaking

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Do you really need lots of advanced vocabulary for IELTS Speaking?

Many students get confused about this and use inappropriate vocabulary in the test, and so get a low score in the test.

The truth is you do need to show a ‘wide range of vocabulary’ in order to get a high score.

However, many students try to squeeze lots of complex words into every sentence.

This makes them sound unnatural and it also means they are likely to make more mistakes, which will lower their score.

You need to balance simple and complex vocabulary.

You should try to sound as natural as possible.

Most importantly, if you don’t know how to use a new word really well, don’t use it in the test.

That said, let’s move on and show you 10 words that, when you learn them well and feel confident to use them, can help you get a higher score in the IELTS Speaking test

IELTS Vocabulary Resources

Increasing your IELTS vocabulary is the KEY to getting a high score in all 4 skills.

But what exactly is ‘IELTS vocabulary’? Is it different from any other kind of vocabulary?

Not really, but there are specific words that come up again and again (get a daily keyword list in my free 28-day planner)

If you think your vocabulary is holding you back from a higher IELTS score, this page gives you tried and tested free resources to help you build your IELTS vocabulary.

Academic IELTS Vocabulary

A really good place to start is the Academic Word List.

Try not to get too overwhelmed though – just use it the short version as a handy guide, and tick off new words as you encounter them.

Always remember to check 3 main things:

ii) The form/use (how does it work in a sentence?)

iii) The pronunciation

Keep a notebook, and use some of the free websites below to review them regularly (I’ve created some free Word List activities for you on Quizlet, so you can easily practise them track progress and on your phone.

Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS 7.0 +: EMPLOYMENT (Part 3)

Updated On Jul 03, 2021

Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS 7.0 +: EMPLOYMENT – Practice Exercises and Answer Key (Part 3)

EMPLOYMENT ( PART 3)

Making Ends Meet

(A)

Select the correct word from the box below to fill each gap. Use each word once only.

remuneration fist firm fringe mobile

internship apprenticeship practice review satisfaction

profession white-collar partner wage freelance

recession exposure autocrat class receivership