IELTS Vocabulary: the 789 Most Frequent B2 and C1 Words
The English words that matter most for band 6.0–7.5, ordered by how often they occur, with meanings and example sentences.
3,215
Total Words
B2 · C1
Levels
2026
Updated
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500 of the 2388 B2 words — the most frequent ones
Ordered by how often they occur in real language use. Meaning, plural and an example sentence for each.
Showing 500 of 500
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| community | A group of people living in the same area or sharing common interests or characteristics |
| stock | Goods kept for sale; a supply of materials; shares in a company; to keep a supply of |
| found | To establish or originate an institution or organization; to lay the groundwork for |
| media | The main means of mass communication, including television, radio, newspapers, and the internet |
| project | A planned piece of work designed to achieve a particular aim; to estimate future amounts |
| minister | A senior member of government heading a department; a member of the clergy; to attend to needs |
| united | Joined together for a common purpose; in agreement or harmony |
| data | Facts, statistics, or information collected for analysis or reference |
| expected | Regarded as likely to happen; anticipated or predicted based on available information |
| investment | The allocation of money or resources with the expectation of future benefit or profit |
| energy | The capacity for work or vigorous activity; the fundamental force driving physical and biological processes |
| known | Recognized, familiar, or within the scope of knowledge; established as true |
| federal | Relating to the central government of a union of states; nationwide rather than local |
| moving | Causing strong emotions, especially sadness or sympathy; in motion |
| potential | Having the capacity to develop into something; latent qualities or abilities |
| purchase | To buy something; the act of buying; something that has been bought |
| remains | What is left over after other parts have been removed or destroyed; historical ruins or a person's body after death |
| means | A method, way, or instrument by which something is achieved; financial resources or income |
| campaign | An organised course of action to achieve a goal; a series of military operations |
| decade | A period of ten years |
| user | A person who uses or operates something, especially a computer system or service |
| executive | A senior manager with significant decision-making authority in an organization |
| prime | Of first importance; main; of the best quality |
| previously | At an earlier time; before |
| analyst | A person who examines and interprets data or information |
| multiple | Consisting of, having, or involving many parts, elements, or members |
| investor | A person or organization that puts money into financial ventures expecting profit |
| stake | A strong wooden or metal post; something at risk; a share or interest in something |
| sector | A distinct part or division of something larger, especially an area of economic activity |
| growing | Increasing in size, amount, or degree; developing or expanding |
| standard | A level of quality or attainment; a model used for comparison; normal or customary |
| planning | The process of making plans for something; the systematic organization of resources to achieve goals |
| revenue | Income generated from business operations, investments, or government taxation |
| identify | To establish or indicate who or what someone or something is; to recognize or distinguish |
| advance | To move forward; progress or development |
| alongside | Close beside; together with |
| update | A report or account that brings information up to the current time; an act of updating something |
| lower | To move something to a less high position; to reduce in amount, degree, or intensity |
| contract | A legally binding agreement; to decrease in size; to acquire an illness |
| environment | The surrounding conditions, influences, and forces that affect the development and behavior of organisms |
| employee | A person working for another person or organization in return for wages or salary |
| conference | A formal meeting for discussion or exchange of information |
| content | The subject matter of a text or work; a state of satisfaction |
| commission | An official request to produce something; a fee paid for services; authority granted |
| overall | Including everything or everyone; general; a loose-fitting protective garment |
| prime minister | The head of government in many countries with a parliamentary system |
| version | A particular form of something differing in certain respects from earlier or other forms; an account of events from a particular perspective |
| criminal | A person who has committed a crime; relating to illegal activities |
| trial | A formal examination of evidence in court; a test of something's performance or qualities |
| payment | The act of paying money for goods or services; the amount paid |
| partnership | A cooperative relationship between people or organizations working together toward a common goal |
| transfer | To move from one place to another; a change of position or location |
| initiative | The power or opportunity to act before others do; a new plan or process |
| shift | A change in position, direction, or tendency; a scheduled period of work |
| cast | To throw; the actors in a play or film; a mould for shaping material |
| candidate | A person seeking or nominated for a position, award, or election |
| defeat | To win a victory over; an instance of being beaten |
| long-term | Occurring over or relating to an extended period of time |
| scheme | A large-scale systematic plan or arrangement; a secret or devious plan; a color or design pattern |
| route | A way or course taken to get from a starting point to a destination; to send via a particular path |
| earnings | Money obtained in return for labor or services; income, particularly from employment or investments |
| crew | A group of people working together on a ship, aircraft, or in a particular task |
| reform | A significant change or improvement made to a system, organization, or practice that is perceived as inadequate or corrupt |
| learning | The acquisition of knowledge or skills through study, experience, or teaching; accumulated knowledge |
| enhance | To intensify, increase, or improve the quality, value, or extent of something |
| equity | The quality of being fair and impartial; justice according to natural law or moral principle |
| western | A film or story set in the American Old West, typically featuring cowboys; relating to the west |
| highlight | The most prominent or memorable part; an area of emphasis or special attention |
| domestic | Relating to the home or family; relating to one's own country |
| beat | A rhythmic pulse or stroke; to defeat or strike repeatedly |
| estate | The total property, assets, and liabilities of a person, particularly one who has died |
| finance | The management of large amounts of money, especially by governments or corporations |
| proposed | Put forward for consideration; suggested as a plan or possibility |
| division | The action of separating; a section of an organisation; disagreement |
| estimate | An approximate calculation or judgment of value, quantity, or extent based on available information |
| primary | Of chief importance; principal; first in order of importance |
| injured | Harmed, damaged, or wounded, especially physically |
| factor | A circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result or outcome |
| grand | Impressive and imposing in appearance or style; magnificent in scale or ambition |
| amaze | To surprise someone greatly; to astonish |
| shooting | The act of discharging a firearm; an incident in which a person is shot; the sport of using guns |
| voter | A person who votes or has the right to vote in an election |
| potentially | In a way that shows possibility or capability of occurring |
| ultimately | In the end; finally; at the most basic level |
| saving | The action of reducing expenditure or preserving something; money set aside for future use |
| upgrade | To raise something to a higher standard, improve quality, or replace with a better version |
| squad | A small organized group of people working together, especially soldiers, police, or athletes |
| existing | Currently present, in use, or in effect; already established or occurring |
| tackle | To make determined efforts to deal with a problem; to physically confront in sports |
| loan | A sum of money lent at interest; the act of lending something temporarily |
| deputy | A person who substitutes for another; second in command |
| investigate | To carry out a systematic inquiry to discover and examine facts |
| boost | An increase or improvement; to help or encourage something to improve |
| innovation | The introduction of something new; a new method, idea, or product |
| related | Connected by blood or marriage, or having a logical or causal connection to something else |
| crucial | Of supreme importance; decisive in determining the outcome |
| sexual | Relating to the instincts, activities, or physical characteristics associated with sex and reproduction |
| particular | Specific or individual; especially important; very exact or demanding |
| tough | Strong and resilient; difficult to accomplish; not tender when chewed |
| prior | Existing or happening before in time or order; taking precedence |
| core | The central or most important part; the central part of a fruit |
| penalty | A punishment for breaking a law, rule, or contract; a disadvantage or unpleasant consequence |
| scheduled | Planned or arranged to happen at a particular time; included in a schedule or timetable |
| god | A supernatural being conceived as the creator and ruler of the universe in monotheistic belief |
| institution | An established organization or practice; a society or organization founded for a purpose |
| assault | A violent physical or verbal attack; a military attack on a fortified position |
| viewer | A person who watches television or looks at something; an audience member or spectator |
| inflation | A general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing power of money |
| initial | The first letter of a name or word; existing at the beginning |
| abuse | The improper use of something; cruel treatment of a person or animal |
| understanding | The ability to comprehend something; sympathetic awareness of others' feelings; an informal agreement |
| objective | A goal or aim; not influenced by personal feelings or opinions; based on facts |
| fighting | The action of engaging in physical combat or violent conflict; armed struggle |
| expectation | A strong belief that something will happen or be the case in the future; an anticipated outcome |
| facilities | Buildings, equipment, or services provided for a particular purpose or activity |
| remaining | Still existing or left over after other parts have been removed, used, or dealt with |
| veteran | A person who has had long experience in a particular field; someone who has served in the armed forces |
| significantly | To a noteworthy or important extent; in a way that has meaning or consequence |
| priority | The condition of being regarded as more important; something that is considered more important than others |
| client | A person or organisation that uses the services of a professional or company |
| profit | A financial gain; the difference between income and expenses; to benefit |
| pose | To assume a particular position for a photograph; to present or constitute |
| fellow | A person in the same position or involved in the same activity; a colleague or peer |
| closure | The act of closing or the state of being closed; a sense of resolution |
| affordable | Inexpensive enough to be within financial reach |
| consensus | General agreement among a group; a collective opinion |
| manufacture | To make goods on a large scale using machinery; the process of making products in factories |
| bid | An offer of a price for something; an attempt to achieve something |
| submit | To present for consideration or judgment; to yield to the authority or will of another |
| sustain | To support or maintain over time; to suffer or experience |
| vital | Absolutely necessary or essential; relating to life or living organisms |
| considering | Taking into account; given the circumstances; in view of |
| outcome | The way something turns out; a consequence or result |
| pitch | The quality of a sound relating to high or low frequency; a persuasive sales talk; a sports field |
| ban | An official prohibition; to forbid something officially |
| technical | Relating to a particular subject, art, or craft; involving detailed and specialized knowledge |
| volunteer | A person who freely offers to do something; to offer oneself for a service or undertaking without payment |
| impose | To force something to be accepted or endured; to establish by authority |
| venue | The place where an event or meeting is held; a location chosen for a specific purpose |
| rival | A person or organization competing with another for the same objective or superiority in the same field |
| fiscal | Relating to government revenue, especially taxes; pertaining to financial matters |
| export | A commodity or service sold to a foreign country; the act of sending goods abroad for trade |
| aircraft | A vehicle capable of flight, such as an airplane |
| ally | A country or person that cooperates with another |
| panel | A flat section forming part of a surface; a group of experts assembled for discussion |
| anticipate | To expect or predict something will happen; to prepare for in advance |
| engagement | A formal arrangement to participate in an activity; a professional commitment or appointment |
| colleague | A person with whom one works in a profession or organisation |
| territory | An area of land under the jurisdiction of a state or ruler; a region with specific characteristics |
| fox | A carnivorous mammal of the dog family with a pointed muzzle, bushy tail, and reddish fur |
| parliament | The supreme legislative body of a country or state, typically consisting of elected representatives |
| evolve | To develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form; to undergo progressive change |
| theme | The subject or topic being discussed or treated in a work of art or literature |
| lawsuit | A legal proceeding in a court of law initiated by one party against another to enforce a right or seek a remedy |
| witness | A person who sees an event take place; to see something happen firsthand |
| estimated | Calculated or judged approximately; determined through rough assessment rather than exact measurement |
| reaction | A response to a stimulus or situation; a chemical process involving change |
| pension | A regular payment made to retired people, typically based on their years of service |
| rural | Relating to or characteristic of the countryside rather than urban areas |
| donation | A gift of money or goods to a charity or cause |
| dynamic | A force or pattern that produces change or motion within a system; the interplay of forces |
| allegation | A claim that someone has done something wrong |
| relief | A feeling of reassurance and relaxation following release from anxiety or distress; assistance given to those in need |
| capability | The power or ability to do something; a feature or faculty |
| faith | Complete trust or confidence in someone or something; firm belief without logical proof |
| improved | Made better; enhanced in quality, value, or condition |
| integrate | To combine or incorporate parts into a unified whole; to bring together different elements |
| draft | A current of cool air flowing through an enclosed space, often unpleasantly |
| corporation | A large company or group of companies recognised as a single legal entity |
| wed | To marry; to join together in marriage or unite closely |
| index | An alphabetical list of topics with page references; a measure or indicator of something |
| expansion | The action of becoming larger or more extensive; the process of increasing in size, scope, or range |
| missile | A weapon that is propelled toward a target; any object thrown or projected |
| suspend | To temporarily stop or prevent from continuing; to hang from above |
| luxury | A state of great comfort and extravagance; something expensive that is not essential but provides pleasure |
| assembly | A group of people gathered together; the process of fitting parts together |
| originally | At first; in the beginning; in an original or novel manner |
| peak | The pointed top of a mountain; the highest point or level of something |
| opponent | A person who competes against or disagrees with another; an adversary |
| chip | A small piece broken off; a thin slice of food; a microprocessor |
| alert | Quick to notice and respond; a warning signal |
| stick | A thin piece of wood; to adhere or attach; to remain in one place |
| retirement | The action of leaving one's job and ceasing to work, typically upon reaching a certain age; the period after this |
| manufacturing | The industry or process of making goods in factories |
| quote | To repeat words from a source; a quotation; a price offered for goods or services |
| assessment | The evaluation or estimation of the nature, quality, or ability of something |
| heritage | Property that is or can be inherited; valued traditions and practices passed down through generations |
| willing | Ready, eager, or prepared to do something; given or done readily without reluctance |
| solar | Relating to or derived from the sun; powered by energy from the sun |
| determined | Having made a firm decision; showing firmness of purpose |
| outlet | A place through which something can escape; a means of releasing emotions; a retail store |
| effectively | In a manner that produces the desired result; successfully; in actual fact or practice |
| legislation | Laws collectively, or the process of making and enacting them |
| dismiss | To send away; to terminate employment; to reject as unworthy of consideration |
| developing | Growing or becoming more advanced; emerging economically |
| perspective | A particular way of viewing things; the art of representing three-dimensional objects on a flat surface |
| legend | A traditional story popularly regarded as historical but not authenticated; also, an extremely famous or notorious person |
| transition | The process of changing from one state, condition, or form to another |
| cabinet | A piece of furniture with shelves or drawers; a group of senior government ministers |
| criticism | The expression of disapproval; the analysis and judgement of something |
| navigate | To plan and direct the course of a vehicle, ship, or aircraft; to find one's way |
| troop | A group of soldiers or armed forces; a collection of people or animals |
| yield | To produce or provide a result, amount, or return; to give way to pressure or demands |
| corporate | Relating to a corporation or large business; collective or shared |
| senator | An elected member of a senate, a legislative body typically forming the upper house of government |
| additionally | As an extra factor or circumstance; in addition |
| restriction | A limiting condition or regulation; the action of limiting or controlling something |
| operator | A person who operates equipment or machinery; one who runs a business or organization |
| extension | The act of extending or the state of being extended; an addition that increases scope or range |
| circumstance | A condition or fact that affects a situation; the surrounding conditions |
| remark | A spoken or written comment expressing an observation or opinion about something |
| rally | A large public meeting in support of a cause; to recover strength; to come together |
| import | A commodity brought into a country from abroad for sale; the act of bringing goods in |
| master | A person who has control, authority, or expertise over something; to become proficient in a skill or subject |
| enterprise | A business organization or venture; an undertaking requiring initiative and resourcefulness |
| plead | To make an emotional appeal; to state formally in court whether one is guilty or not guilty |
| recommendation | A suggestion or proposal regarding the best course of action; praise for someone's abilities |
| eagle | A large predatory bird of the family Accipitridae, known for its powerful build, keen vision, and majestic flight |
| recognition | The act of identifying someone or something; acknowledgment of achievement |
| actual | Existing in reality or fact; real rather than theoretical or assumed |
| detailed | Having many details; thorough and comprehensive in description |
| prospect | The possibility of something happening; a potential customer or candidate |
| specifically | In a clear and precise manner; relating to a particular thing and not others |
| assess | To evaluate or estimate the nature, value, or quality of something |
| pandemic | A disease prevalent over a whole country or the world; widespread or universal |
| wage | A fixed regular payment for work or services, typically paid daily or weekly; to carry on a war or campaign |
| margin | The edge or border of something; the amount by which something is won or falls short; profit beyond costs |
| suffering | The state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship |
| fraud | Wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain |
| marketing | The activity of promoting and selling products or services, including market research and advertising |
| species | A group of living organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring; a category of biological classification |
| presidential | Relating to a president or presidency |
| consistent | Unchanging in nature or pattern; compatible with something |
| resolution | A firm decision to do or not do something, or the action of solving a problem or dispute |
| motion | The action or process of moving; a formal proposal put to a legislature or committee |
| plot | The main events of a story; a secret plan; a small piece of ground |
| dominate | To have control over; to be the most important or obvious feature |
| cooperation | The action of working together towards a shared goal |
| creation | The act of bringing something into existence; something that has been made |
| personnel | The people employed in an organization or engaged in a military service |
| reference | A mention or citation of a source of information, or a person who can provide information about someone's character or abilities |
| trophy | A cup or decorative object awarded as a prize for victory or achievement |
| snap | A sudden sharp breaking sound; to break suddenly with a cracking sound; done quickly without deliberation |
| barrier | An obstacle that prevents movement or access; something that separates or restricts |
| immigrant | A person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country |
| lawmaker | A person who participates in drafting and enacting laws, typically a member of a legislative body |
| province | A principal administrative division of a country; a sphere of activity or knowledge |
| alliance | A union formed for mutual benefit between countries or groups |
| stability | The quality or state of being firmly established and unlikely to change or fail |
| offense | A violation of a law or rule; an act causing resentment or hurt; the attacking team in sports |
| investigator | A person who conducts investigations, especially in an official capacity |
| urban | Relating to or characteristic of a city or town; associated with densely populated areas |
| coalition | A temporary alliance of different groups united for a common purpose |
| relevant | Closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand; having significance or bearing on the current situation |
| retailer | A person or business that sells goods directly to consumers rather than to other businesses |
| real estate | Property consisting of land and buildings; the business of buying and selling such property |
| vaccine | A biological preparation that provides active immunity against a particular infectious disease |
| gang | An organized group of people, often involved in criminal activities or antisocial behavior |
| slam | To shut or strike with great force and noise; a forceful impact or closure |
| liberal | Open to new ideas and progressive change; generous in giving; relating to political views favoring individual freedom |
| resistance | The refusal to accept or comply with something; the ability to withstand the effects of something harmful |
| memorial | Something established to preserve the memory of a person or event; a monument or commemorative structure |
| welfare | The health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group; financial support provided by the state |
| blend | A mixture of different elements combined harmoniously; to mix together |
| fixed | Securely positioned and not subject to change or movement; established and unchanging |
| literally | In a literal manner; exactly as stated; used for emphasis even when not strictly accurate |
| elite | A select group regarded as superior in ability, intellect, wealth, or social standing |
| jury | A group of citizens sworn to deliver a verdict based on evidence presented in court |
| keen | Eager, enthusiastic; having a sharp edge or point; intellectually acute |
| eligible | A person who qualifies or meets the requirements for selection, participation, or consideration |
| replacement | A person or thing that takes the place of another; the action of substituting one thing for another |
| interior | The inside part of something; the inner area of a building or space |
| outfit | A set of clothes worn together; a group of people working together as a team |
| donate | To give money or goods for a good cause; to contribute voluntarily |
| profile | An outline of a face from the side; a brief description of a person; public attention |
| friendly | A match or game played for enjoyment rather than as part of a serious competition |
| component | A part or element of a larger whole, especially a machine or system |
| procedure | An established or official way of doing something; a series of actions |
| salary | A fixed regular payment for work, typically expressed as an annual amount and paid monthly |
| completion | The action of finishing something; the state of being complete |
| convert | To change into a different form or state; a person who has changed beliefs |
| utility | The state of being useful, profitable, or beneficial; a public service such as electricity, gas, or water supply |
| regardless | Without being affected or influenced by something; despite the prevailing circumstances or conditions |
| ranger | A person responsible for protecting a forest or nature reserve |
| arena | A large enclosed area for sports, entertainment, or other public events; also a sphere of activity |
| parade | A public procession celebrating a special occasion; to march in a ceremonial manner |
| exceed | To go beyond a specified limit, measure, or standard; to be greater than |
| villa | A large and luxurious country residence, especially in a warm climate; a detached house typically used for holidays |
| nationwide | Extending or occurring throughout an entire nation |
| comprehensive | Including all or nearly all elements; complete and thorough |
| showcase | A setting or event designed to exhibit something favorably; a glass case for displaying items |
| employer | A person or organization that engages and pays workers for their labor or services |
| fame | The state of being known or talked about by many people; widespread renown or celebrity |
| feedback | Information about reactions to a product or performance, used as a basis for improvement |
| dispute | A disagreement or argument; to question the truth of something |
| involvement | The state of being involved or participating in something; engagement or participation |
| therapy | Treatment intended to relieve or heal a physical or mental disorder |
| segment | A separate part of something that is distinct from the whole; a section or portion |
| surge | A sudden powerful forward or upward movement; a rapid increase |
| venture | A risky or daring journey or undertaking; a business enterprise involving considerable risk |
| provision | The act of supplying something; a clause in a legal document; supplies of food |
| trailer | A vehicle towed by another; a preview of a film; a mobile home |
| residence | The place where a person lives, especially a house or apartment; the fact of living in a particular place |
| constant | Occurring continuously; unchanging over time; a fixed value |
| extensive | Covering a large area; having great range or scope; comprehensive and thorough |
| regime | A system of government, especially an authoritarian one, or a systematic way of organizing or managing something |
| stab | To pierce or wound with a pointed object; an attempt at doing something |
| rear | The back part of something; to raise and care for young; located at the back |
| disrupt | To interrupt the normal progress of something |
| sweep | To clean by brushing away dirt; a long swift curving movement |
| compensation | Something given to make up for loss, suffering, or injury; payment for work |
| genre | A category of artistic composition characterized by similarities in form, style, or subject matter |
| sue | To institute legal proceedings against a person or organization, typically to seek compensation |
| condemn | To express strong disapproval of; to sentence to punishment; to declare unfit |
| ease | Freedom from difficulty, effort, or hardship; the capability to accomplish something without strain |
| portion | A part of a whole; an amount of food served to one person |
| soil | The upper layer of earth in which plants grow; to make dirty or stain |
| swing | To move back and forth or from side to side; a seat hanging from ropes or chains |
| manufacturer | A person or company that makes goods for sale, especially in a factory |
| follower | A person who supports and admires someone or their ideas; an adherent or disciple |
| carbon | A chemical element fundamental to organic compounds and life on Earth |
| dedication | The quality of being committed to a task; a ceremony of opening |
| external | The outer surface or appearance; outward features or aspects as opposed to internal ones |
| participation | The act of taking part or sharing in an activity or event |
| resume | To begin again or continue after an interruption; to take back or return to a former position |
| universal | Relating to or affecting all people or things in the world; applicable in all cases |
| reminder | Something that causes someone to remember something, or a message or communication designed to prompt action |
| icon | A person or thing regarded as a representative symbol; a devotional painting of a sacred figure |
| essentially | In essence; fundamentally; at the most basic level; used to indicate the intrinsic nature of something |
| spokesman | A male person who speaks officially on behalf of an organization, group, or another person |
| latter | The second of two things mentioned; situated or occurring nearer to the end |
| percentage | A proportion or share expressed as a number out of 100 |
| packed | Very full or crowded; arranged in containers for transport or storage |
| swift | Happening quickly or promptly; moving or capable of moving at high speed |
| reinforce | To strengthen or support something by adding extra material, resources, or emphasis to make it more effective |
| assure | To tell someone confidently that something is true or will happen; to guarantee |
| landing | The act of coming down to the ground; a platform at the top of stairs |
| sensitive | Quick to detect or respond to slight changes or signals; easily hurt emotionally; requiring careful treatment |
| proven | Demonstrated to be true or effective through evidence or experience |
| secondary | Coming after or less important than something primary; relating to education between primary and higher levels |
| tag | A label attached to something for identification; to attach a label or mark |
| human rights | Fundamental rights to which all humans are entitled regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or other status |
| hybrid | A thing made by combining two different elements; offspring of two organisms of different species |
| striking | Attracting attention by being unusual, remarkable, or dramatic |
| demanding | Requiring much skill, effort, or attention; difficult |
| medication | A substance used to treat illness or injury; medicine or drugs |
| trader | A person who buys and sells goods or financial instruments as a business |
| legendary | Described in or based on legends; remarkably famous or renowned |
| ultimate | Being the best or most extreme example of its kind; final in a process |
| intent | The purpose or aim behind an action; determined mental focus on accomplishing something |
| accommodation | A place to live, stay, or work; an adjustment or adaptation to suit particular conditions |
| counter | A surface for transactions; opposing; to respond in opposition |
| commander | A person who holds authority or control over a military force or operation |
| moral | Concerned with principles of right and wrong behavior; the lesson derived from a story |
| violate | To break or fail to comply with a rule, law, or agreement; to treat something sacred with irreverence |
| confront | To face someone or something in a challenging or hostile way; to deal with |
| inspector | An official who examines things to ensure they meet required standards |
| actively | In a way that involves direct participation or energetic engagement |
| genuine | Truly what it is said to be; authentic; sincere and honest in character |
| gear | Equipment, apparatus, or accessories for a particular activity or purpose |
| ram | An adult male sheep; to crash forcefully into something |
| clarify | To make something clearer or easier to understand; to remove confusion |
| coaching | The process of training or instructing someone to improve skills or performance |
| designer | A person who plans the appearance or workings of something |
| unlock | To unfasten a lock; to make available or accessible |
| embrace | The act of holding someone closely in one's arms, typically as a gesture of affection or comfort |
| globally | Throughout the world; in a way that relates to or affects the entire world |
| mill | A building equipped with machinery for grinding grain; a factory for processing materials |
| ton | A unit of weight equal to 2,000 pounds in the US or 2,240 pounds in the UK; a large amount |
| execute | To carry out a death sentence on a condemned person; to put to death as legal punishment |
| navy | The branch of a nation's armed forces that conducts military operations at sea |
| solo | A performance or activity done by one person alone; a musical piece for a single performer |
| await | To wait for something or someone; to be in store for |
| consult | To seek advice or information from someone with expertise |
| fundamental | A basic principle, rule, or law that serves as the groundwork for a system or theory |
| nomination | The act of proposing someone for a position or award; a formal proposal |
| cable | A thick rope or wire used for transmitting signals or power; subscription television |
| detect | To discover or identify the presence of something |
| label | A small piece of paper or other material attached to an object giving information about it |
| exceptional | Unusually excellent; surpassing what is common, usual, or expected; remarkable |
| substance | A particular kind of matter with uniform properties; the essential nature or meaning of something |
| timing | The choice or control of when something should happen; the ability to select the right moment |
| acquisition | The act of obtaining or gaining possession of something, especially through deliberate effort |
| controversy | Prolonged public disagreement or heated debate |
| ambassador | A diplomat representing their country abroad |
| popularity | The state of being liked, admired, or supported by many people |
| shed | A simple roofed structure for storage; to lose naturally or cast off; to emit or give off |
| ballot | A system of voting; the paper or method used to cast a vote |
| clothing | Items worn to cover the body; garments collectively |
| mortgage | A loan secured against property, typically used to purchase real estate |
| lease | A contract by which property is conveyed for a specified period in return for payment; the period of such a contract |
| spin | To rotate rapidly; to present information in a particular way to influence perception |
| prevention | The act of stopping something from happening or arising |
| evil | Profound immorality and malevolence; the quality of being morally reprehensible |
| innovative | Featuring new methods or ideas; advanced and original in approach |
| rider | A person who rides a horse, bicycle, motorcycle, or other vehicle; an additional clause to a document |
| deficit | An excess of expenditure over income; a deficiency or shortage |
| attendance | The action or state of being present; the number of people present at an event |
| helicopter | An aircraft that achieves lift from rotating blades, enabling vertical takeoff and landing |
| commerce | The activity of buying and selling goods and services, especially on a large scale |
| necessarily | As a necessary result; inevitably |
| justify | To show or prove to be right or reasonable; to provide adequate grounds for |
| smash | To break violently into pieces; a powerful blow or collision; a great success |
| corruption | Dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power; moral deterioration |
| enforce | To ensure compliance with laws, regulations, or rules through authority or compulsion |
| offender | A person who commits an offense or breaks a law |
| output | The amount produced or processed; the data or results produced by a system |
| laptop | A portable computer small enough to be used while resting on one's lap |
| rocket | A vehicle or device propelled by the combustion of its contents; to move or increase very rapidly |
| refugee | A person who has been forced to leave their country due to war, persecution, or natural disaster and seeks safety in another country |
| outlook | A person's point of view; a prediction of future developments; a view from a particular place |
| peer | A person of equal status or age; to look closely and carefully |
| spark | A small fiery particle; something that ignites or initiates; to emit tiny flashes |
| strictly | In a way that involves rigid enforcement of rules; exactly or precisely |
| firearm | A weapon from which a projectile is discharged by gunpowder; a gun or rifle |
| so-called | Commonly named or designated as such, often used to express skepticism about the accuracy of the term |
| bounce | To spring back after hitting a surface; a rebound or recovery |
| probe | To investigate or examine thoroughly; an investigation; a device for exploring |
| refresh | To give new energy, vigor, or life to something or someone, or to update information by loading the latest version |
| chancellor | A senior official in government or a university; head of government in some countries |
| holder | A person or thing that holds something; one who possesses or controls something |
| facilitate | To make an action or process easier; to assist the progress of something |
| dated | Old-fashioned; no longer current or popular |
| impressed | Having a strong favorable effect on someone; feeling admiration or respect |
| walker | A person who walks, especially for exercise or pleasure; a frame used by disabled or elderly people for support while walking |
| mask | A covering for the face used for protection, disguise, or ceremonial purposes; to conceal or disguise |
| implement | A tool, utensil, or device used for a particular purpose |
| rental | Property or equipment available for temporary use in exchange for payment, or the amount paid for such use |
| abandoned | Left behind permanently; showing a complete lack of inhibition or restraint |
| deem | To consider or judge something in a particular way |
| incentive | Something that motivates or encourages someone to do something; a stimulus to action |
| overlook | To fail to notice or consider; to have a view from above; a high place with a view |
| lighting | The arrangement or provision of light in a space; the quality and distribution of illumination |
| publication | The act of making information available to the public; a published work |
| exclude | To deny access to; to bar from participation, consideration, or inclusion |
| short-term | Lasting for or relating to a brief period of time; not extending far into the future |
| hedge | A row of bushes or small trees forming a boundary; a means of protection or defense |
| fatal | Causing death; having extremely unfortunate or ruinous consequences |
| decent | Of an acceptable standard; respectable; morally appropriate |
| disorder | A lack of order or regular arrangement; a medical condition |
| crack | A narrow opening or break; to break without complete separation |
| hardware | The physical components of a computer system; tools and equipment for building or repair |
| discipline | Training to obey rules; a branch of knowledge; self-control |
| fleet | A group of ships, vehicles, or aircraft operating together under the same ownership or command |
| shield | A protective device or barrier; to protect from danger or harm |
| statistics | The practice of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting numerical data; data so collected and analyzed |
| surveillance | Close observation of a person or group, especially by authorities; monitoring |
| applicant | A person who formally requests or applies for something, especially a job or position |
| resign | To voluntarily leave a position or job, or to accept something undesirable as inevitable |
| input | Something put in; a contribution of information, resources, or effort |
| toll | A charge for using a road or bridge; the cost in terms of damage or suffering; to ring a bell |
| fate | The development of events beyond human control, regarded as predetermined by a supernatural power |
| regulate | To control or maintain something according to rules, principles, or laws, ensuring proper functioning or compliance |
| soar | To fly high in the air; to rise rapidly to a high level |
| grip | A firm hold; the ability to maintain control or understanding of something |
| gross | Unattractively large or coarse; total amount before deductions; blatantly offensive |
| lifetime | The duration of a person's life; the period during which something exists or functions |
| explosive | A substance that can be made to explode, especially for demolition or as a weapon |
| economist | A specialist in economics who analyzes financial data, markets, and policy implications |
| temporarily | For a limited period of time; not permanently |
| concrete | A building material made from cement; existing in reality; specific rather than abstract |
| headquarters | The administrative center of an organization; the main offices from which operations are directed |
| scandal | An action or event causing public outrage due to perceived wrongdoing or immorality |
| adoption | The act of legally taking another's child as one's own |
| flame | The visible portion of fire; a stream of burning gas or vapor that emits light and heat |
| ash | The powdery residue left after the combustion of a substance; also a type of tree |
| recipe | A set of instructions for preparing a particular dish; a formula for achieving something |
| convinced | Completely certain about something; persuaded of the truth |
| certificate | An official document attesting to a fact, qualification, or achievement |
| hang | The way something falls or drapes; the general tendency or drift of a matter |
| preliminary | Coming before the main part or business; preparatory |
| administrative | Relating to the management of an organization or system |
| hospitality | The friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests or strangers |
| legislative | Relating to the making of laws or to a body of legislators; having the power to make laws |
| guideline | A general rule, principle, or piece of advice that provides direction or guidance |
| fabric | Cloth produced by weaving or knitting textile fibers; the basic structure of something |
| supplier | A person or company that provides goods or services to another business |
| threaten | To express intention to cause harm or damage; to be a source of danger |
| implication | Something that is suggested or implied; a likely consequence or effect |
| obligation | A duty or commitment; something one is bound to do by contract, promise, or moral responsibility |
| concede | To admit or acknowledge something as true; to surrender or yield |
| formerly | In earlier times; previously; at a time in the past |
| mobility | The ability to move or be moved freely and easily; social movement between classes |
| console | To comfort someone; a panel of controls; a gaming system |
| pursuit | The act of chasing or seeking something; an activity or hobby |
| adopted | Legally taken as one's own child; chosen or accepted |
| migration | The movement of people or animals from one region or country to another; the process of moving data or systems |
| semi-final | A match or round in a competition that precedes the final, with the winners advancing to the championship match |
| thrilled | Feeling intense excitement and pleasure; extremely pleased |
| seasonal | Relating to or characteristic of a particular season; occurring at specific times of the year |
| discharge | To release from duty or obligation; to allow to leave; a substance emitted |
| pedestrian | A person walking rather than traveling by vehicle; ordinary and uninspiring |
| entrepreneur | A person who organizes, operates, and assumes the financial risk of a business venture |
| contemporary | Belonging to the present time; modern; a person living at the same time |
| pirate | A person who attacks ships at sea to steal; one who copies or distributes copyrighted material illegally |
| regard | Attention, consideration, or respect given to someone or something, or to think of in a specified way |
| concerning | Relating to; about; causing anxiety or worry |
| polish | To make smooth and shiny by rubbing; a substance used for buffing; refinement |
| tunnel | An artificial underground passage, especially one for a road or railway |
| costume | A set of clothes characteristic of a particular time, place, or character |
Related Guides
IELTS Vocabulary FAQ
How many words do I need for IELTS Band 7+?
For Band 7+, you should have an active vocabulary of around 7,000-8,000 words. However, more important than quantity is depth: Can you use synonyms, form collocations, and use words in the right context? The 789 most frequent B2 and C1 words on this page are the best place to start; the full 3,215-word bank with audio and exercises is inside the trainer.
Should I learn British or American English for IELTS?
IELTS accepts both varieties. What matters is consistency: if you write "colour", stay with British spelling throughout. Examiners are used to both. Tip: pick the variety you have had more exposure to through films, books or work.
What is the most effective way to learn IELTS vocabulary?
Learn words in context — in sentences and collocations, not as isolated items. Use spaced repetition, group words by IELTS topics (environment, technology, education) and write two or three sentences with new words every day. Frequency-ordered lists like this one make sure you spend your time on words you will actually meet.
Which vocabulary categories are most important for IELTS?
The most common IELTS topics are: Education & Learning, Environment & Sustainability, Technology & Innovation, Health & Lifestyle, and Society & Culture. Academic verbs (analyze, evaluate, demonstrate) and linking words (furthermore, nevertheless, consequently) are particularly important for Writing and Speaking.
Is vocabulary alone enough for a good IELTS score?
No. Vocabulary (Lexical Resource) is one of four criteria in Speaking and Writing; you also need grammatical range, coherence and task achievement. A rich vocabulary helps enormously, though: it lets you be precise and avoid repetition.