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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

WordMeaning
communityA group of people living in the same area or sharing common interests or characteristics
stockGoods kept for sale; a supply of materials; shares in a company; to keep a supply of
foundTo establish or originate an institution or organization; to lay the groundwork for
mediaThe main means of mass communication, including television, radio, newspapers, and the internet
projectA planned piece of work designed to achieve a particular aim; to estimate future amounts
ministerA senior member of government heading a department; a member of the clergy; to attend to needs
unitedJoined together for a common purpose; in agreement or harmony
dataFacts, statistics, or information collected for analysis or reference
expectedRegarded as likely to happen; anticipated or predicted based on available information
investmentThe allocation of money or resources with the expectation of future benefit or profit
energyThe capacity for work or vigorous activity; the fundamental force driving physical and biological processes
knownRecognized, familiar, or within the scope of knowledge; established as true
federalRelating to the central government of a union of states; nationwide rather than local
movingCausing strong emotions, especially sadness or sympathy; in motion
potentialHaving the capacity to develop into something; latent qualities or abilities
purchaseTo buy something; the act of buying; something that has been bought
remainsWhat is left over after other parts have been removed or destroyed; historical ruins or a person's body after death
meansA method, way, or instrument by which something is achieved; financial resources or income
campaignAn organised course of action to achieve a goal; a series of military operations
decadeA period of ten years
userA person who uses or operates something, especially a computer system or service
executiveA senior manager with significant decision-making authority in an organization
primeOf first importance; main; of the best quality
previouslyAt an earlier time; before
analystA person who examines and interprets data or information
multipleConsisting of, having, or involving many parts, elements, or members
investorA person or organization that puts money into financial ventures expecting profit
stakeA strong wooden or metal post; something at risk; a share or interest in something
sectorA distinct part or division of something larger, especially an area of economic activity
growingIncreasing in size, amount, or degree; developing or expanding
standardA level of quality or attainment; a model used for comparison; normal or customary
planningThe process of making plans for something; the systematic organization of resources to achieve goals
revenueIncome generated from business operations, investments, or government taxation
identifyTo establish or indicate who or what someone or something is; to recognize or distinguish
advanceTo move forward; progress or development
alongsideClose beside; together with
updateA report or account that brings information up to the current time; an act of updating something
lowerTo move something to a less high position; to reduce in amount, degree, or intensity
contractA legally binding agreement; to decrease in size; to acquire an illness
environmentThe surrounding conditions, influences, and forces that affect the development and behavior of organisms
employeeA person working for another person or organization in return for wages or salary
conferenceA formal meeting for discussion or exchange of information
contentThe subject matter of a text or work; a state of satisfaction
commissionAn official request to produce something; a fee paid for services; authority granted
overallIncluding everything or everyone; general; a loose-fitting protective garment
prime ministerThe head of government in many countries with a parliamentary system
versionA particular form of something differing in certain respects from earlier or other forms; an account of events from a particular perspective
criminalA person who has committed a crime; relating to illegal activities
trialA formal examination of evidence in court; a test of something's performance or qualities
paymentThe act of paying money for goods or services; the amount paid
partnershipA cooperative relationship between people or organizations working together toward a common goal
transferTo move from one place to another; a change of position or location
initiativeThe power or opportunity to act before others do; a new plan or process
shiftA change in position, direction, or tendency; a scheduled period of work
castTo throw; the actors in a play or film; a mould for shaping material
candidateA person seeking or nominated for a position, award, or election
defeatTo win a victory over; an instance of being beaten
long-termOccurring over or relating to an extended period of time
schemeA large-scale systematic plan or arrangement; a secret or devious plan; a color or design pattern
routeA way or course taken to get from a starting point to a destination; to send via a particular path
earningsMoney obtained in return for labor or services; income, particularly from employment or investments
crewA group of people working together on a ship, aircraft, or in a particular task
reformA significant change or improvement made to a system, organization, or practice that is perceived as inadequate or corrupt
learningThe acquisition of knowledge or skills through study, experience, or teaching; accumulated knowledge
enhanceTo intensify, increase, or improve the quality, value, or extent of something
equityThe quality of being fair and impartial; justice according to natural law or moral principle
westernA film or story set in the American Old West, typically featuring cowboys; relating to the west
highlightThe most prominent or memorable part; an area of emphasis or special attention
domesticRelating to the home or family; relating to one's own country
beatA rhythmic pulse or stroke; to defeat or strike repeatedly
estateThe total property, assets, and liabilities of a person, particularly one who has died
financeThe management of large amounts of money, especially by governments or corporations
proposedPut forward for consideration; suggested as a plan or possibility
divisionThe action of separating; a section of an organisation; disagreement
estimateAn approximate calculation or judgment of value, quantity, or extent based on available information
primaryOf chief importance; principal; first in order of importance
injuredHarmed, damaged, or wounded, especially physically
factorA circumstance, fact, or influence that contributes to a result or outcome
grandImpressive and imposing in appearance or style; magnificent in scale or ambition
amazeTo surprise someone greatly; to astonish
shootingThe act of discharging a firearm; an incident in which a person is shot; the sport of using guns
voterA person who votes or has the right to vote in an election
potentiallyIn a way that shows possibility or capability of occurring
ultimatelyIn the end; finally; at the most basic level
savingThe action of reducing expenditure or preserving something; money set aside for future use
upgradeTo raise something to a higher standard, improve quality, or replace with a better version
squadA small organized group of people working together, especially soldiers, police, or athletes
existingCurrently present, in use, or in effect; already established or occurring
tackleTo make determined efforts to deal with a problem; to physically confront in sports
loanA sum of money lent at interest; the act of lending something temporarily
deputyA person who substitutes for another; second in command
investigateTo carry out a systematic inquiry to discover and examine facts
boostAn increase or improvement; to help or encourage something to improve
innovationThe introduction of something new; a new method, idea, or product
relatedConnected by blood or marriage, or having a logical or causal connection to something else
crucialOf supreme importance; decisive in determining the outcome
sexualRelating to the instincts, activities, or physical characteristics associated with sex and reproduction
particularSpecific or individual; especially important; very exact or demanding
toughStrong and resilient; difficult to accomplish; not tender when chewed
priorExisting or happening before in time or order; taking precedence
coreThe central or most important part; the central part of a fruit
penaltyA punishment for breaking a law, rule, or contract; a disadvantage or unpleasant consequence
scheduledPlanned or arranged to happen at a particular time; included in a schedule or timetable
godA supernatural being conceived as the creator and ruler of the universe in monotheistic belief
institutionAn established organization or practice; a society or organization founded for a purpose
assaultA violent physical or verbal attack; a military attack on a fortified position
viewerA person who watches television or looks at something; an audience member or spectator
inflationA general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing power of money
initialThe first letter of a name or word; existing at the beginning
abuseThe improper use of something; cruel treatment of a person or animal
understandingThe ability to comprehend something; sympathetic awareness of others' feelings; an informal agreement
objectiveA goal or aim; not influenced by personal feelings or opinions; based on facts
fightingThe action of engaging in physical combat or violent conflict; armed struggle
expectationA strong belief that something will happen or be the case in the future; an anticipated outcome
facilitiesBuildings, equipment, or services provided for a particular purpose or activity
remainingStill existing or left over after other parts have been removed, used, or dealt with
veteranA person who has had long experience in a particular field; someone who has served in the armed forces
significantlyTo a noteworthy or important extent; in a way that has meaning or consequence
priorityThe condition of being regarded as more important; something that is considered more important than others
clientA person or organisation that uses the services of a professional or company
profitA financial gain; the difference between income and expenses; to benefit
poseTo assume a particular position for a photograph; to present or constitute
fellowA person in the same position or involved in the same activity; a colleague or peer
closureThe act of closing or the state of being closed; a sense of resolution
affordableInexpensive enough to be within financial reach
consensusGeneral agreement among a group; a collective opinion
manufactureTo make goods on a large scale using machinery; the process of making products in factories
bidAn offer of a price for something; an attempt to achieve something
submitTo present for consideration or judgment; to yield to the authority or will of another
sustainTo support or maintain over time; to suffer or experience
vitalAbsolutely necessary or essential; relating to life or living organisms
consideringTaking into account; given the circumstances; in view of
outcomeThe way something turns out; a consequence or result
pitchThe quality of a sound relating to high or low frequency; a persuasive sales talk; a sports field
banAn official prohibition; to forbid something officially
technicalRelating to a particular subject, art, or craft; involving detailed and specialized knowledge
volunteerA person who freely offers to do something; to offer oneself for a service or undertaking without payment
imposeTo force something to be accepted or endured; to establish by authority
venueThe place where an event or meeting is held; a location chosen for a specific purpose
rivalA person or organization competing with another for the same objective or superiority in the same field
fiscalRelating to government revenue, especially taxes; pertaining to financial matters
exportA commodity or service sold to a foreign country; the act of sending goods abroad for trade
aircraftA vehicle capable of flight, such as an airplane
allyA country or person that cooperates with another
panelA flat section forming part of a surface; a group of experts assembled for discussion
anticipateTo expect or predict something will happen; to prepare for in advance
engagementA formal arrangement to participate in an activity; a professional commitment or appointment
colleagueA person with whom one works in a profession or organisation
territoryAn area of land under the jurisdiction of a state or ruler; a region with specific characteristics
foxA carnivorous mammal of the dog family with a pointed muzzle, bushy tail, and reddish fur
parliamentThe supreme legislative body of a country or state, typically consisting of elected representatives
evolveTo develop gradually, especially from a simple to a more complex form; to undergo progressive change
themeThe subject or topic being discussed or treated in a work of art or literature
lawsuitA legal proceeding in a court of law initiated by one party against another to enforce a right or seek a remedy
witnessA person who sees an event take place; to see something happen firsthand
estimatedCalculated or judged approximately; determined through rough assessment rather than exact measurement
reactionA response to a stimulus or situation; a chemical process involving change
pensionA regular payment made to retired people, typically based on their years of service
ruralRelating to or characteristic of the countryside rather than urban areas
donationA gift of money or goods to a charity or cause
dynamicA force or pattern that produces change or motion within a system; the interplay of forces
allegationA claim that someone has done something wrong
reliefA feeling of reassurance and relaxation following release from anxiety or distress; assistance given to those in need
capabilityThe power or ability to do something; a feature or faculty
faithComplete trust or confidence in someone or something; firm belief without logical proof
improvedMade better; enhanced in quality, value, or condition
integrateTo combine or incorporate parts into a unified whole; to bring together different elements
draftA current of cool air flowing through an enclosed space, often unpleasantly
corporationA large company or group of companies recognised as a single legal entity
wedTo marry; to join together in marriage or unite closely
indexAn alphabetical list of topics with page references; a measure or indicator of something
expansionThe action of becoming larger or more extensive; the process of increasing in size, scope, or range
missileA weapon that is propelled toward a target; any object thrown or projected
suspendTo temporarily stop or prevent from continuing; to hang from above
luxuryA state of great comfort and extravagance; something expensive that is not essential but provides pleasure
assemblyA group of people gathered together; the process of fitting parts together
originallyAt first; in the beginning; in an original or novel manner
peakThe pointed top of a mountain; the highest point or level of something
opponentA person who competes against or disagrees with another; an adversary
chipA small piece broken off; a thin slice of food; a microprocessor
alertQuick to notice and respond; a warning signal
stickA thin piece of wood; to adhere or attach; to remain in one place
retirementThe action of leaving one's job and ceasing to work, typically upon reaching a certain age; the period after this
manufacturingThe industry or process of making goods in factories
quoteTo repeat words from a source; a quotation; a price offered for goods or services
assessmentThe evaluation or estimation of the nature, quality, or ability of something
heritageProperty that is or can be inherited; valued traditions and practices passed down through generations
willingReady, eager, or prepared to do something; given or done readily without reluctance
solarRelating to or derived from the sun; powered by energy from the sun
determinedHaving made a firm decision; showing firmness of purpose
outletA place through which something can escape; a means of releasing emotions; a retail store
effectivelyIn a manner that produces the desired result; successfully; in actual fact or practice
legislationLaws collectively, or the process of making and enacting them
dismissTo send away; to terminate employment; to reject as unworthy of consideration
developingGrowing or becoming more advanced; emerging economically
perspectiveA particular way of viewing things; the art of representing three-dimensional objects on a flat surface
legendA traditional story popularly regarded as historical but not authenticated; also, an extremely famous or notorious person
transitionThe process of changing from one state, condition, or form to another
cabinetA piece of furniture with shelves or drawers; a group of senior government ministers
criticismThe expression of disapproval; the analysis and judgement of something
navigateTo plan and direct the course of a vehicle, ship, or aircraft; to find one's way
troopA group of soldiers or armed forces; a collection of people or animals
yieldTo produce or provide a result, amount, or return; to give way to pressure or demands
corporateRelating to a corporation or large business; collective or shared
senatorAn elected member of a senate, a legislative body typically forming the upper house of government
additionallyAs an extra factor or circumstance; in addition
restrictionA limiting condition or regulation; the action of limiting or controlling something
operatorA person who operates equipment or machinery; one who runs a business or organization
extensionThe act of extending or the state of being extended; an addition that increases scope or range
circumstanceA condition or fact that affects a situation; the surrounding conditions
remarkA spoken or written comment expressing an observation or opinion about something
rallyA large public meeting in support of a cause; to recover strength; to come together
importA commodity brought into a country from abroad for sale; the act of bringing goods in
masterA person who has control, authority, or expertise over something; to become proficient in a skill or subject
enterpriseA business organization or venture; an undertaking requiring initiative and resourcefulness
pleadTo make an emotional appeal; to state formally in court whether one is guilty or not guilty
recommendationA suggestion or proposal regarding the best course of action; praise for someone's abilities
eagleA large predatory bird of the family Accipitridae, known for its powerful build, keen vision, and majestic flight
recognitionThe act of identifying someone or something; acknowledgment of achievement
actualExisting in reality or fact; real rather than theoretical or assumed
detailedHaving many details; thorough and comprehensive in description
prospectThe possibility of something happening; a potential customer or candidate
specificallyIn a clear and precise manner; relating to a particular thing and not others
assessTo evaluate or estimate the nature, value, or quality of something
pandemicA disease prevalent over a whole country or the world; widespread or universal
wageA fixed regular payment for work or services, typically paid daily or weekly; to carry on a war or campaign
marginThe edge or border of something; the amount by which something is won or falls short; profit beyond costs
sufferingThe state of undergoing pain, distress, or hardship
fraudWrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain
marketingThe activity of promoting and selling products or services, including market research and advertising
speciesA group of living organisms capable of interbreeding and producing fertile offspring; a category of biological classification
presidentialRelating to a president or presidency
consistentUnchanging in nature or pattern; compatible with something
resolutionA firm decision to do or not do something, or the action of solving a problem or dispute
motionThe action or process of moving; a formal proposal put to a legislature or committee
plotThe main events of a story; a secret plan; a small piece of ground
dominateTo have control over; to be the most important or obvious feature
cooperationThe action of working together towards a shared goal
creationThe act of bringing something into existence; something that has been made
personnelThe people employed in an organization or engaged in a military service
referenceA mention or citation of a source of information, or a person who can provide information about someone's character or abilities
trophyA cup or decorative object awarded as a prize for victory or achievement
snapA sudden sharp breaking sound; to break suddenly with a cracking sound; done quickly without deliberation
barrierAn obstacle that prevents movement or access; something that separates or restricts
immigrantA person who comes to live permanently in a foreign country
lawmakerA person who participates in drafting and enacting laws, typically a member of a legislative body
provinceA principal administrative division of a country; a sphere of activity or knowledge
allianceA union formed for mutual benefit between countries or groups
stabilityThe quality or state of being firmly established and unlikely to change or fail
offenseA violation of a law or rule; an act causing resentment or hurt; the attacking team in sports
investigatorA person who conducts investigations, especially in an official capacity
urbanRelating to or characteristic of a city or town; associated with densely populated areas
coalitionA temporary alliance of different groups united for a common purpose
relevantClosely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand; having significance or bearing on the current situation
retailerA person or business that sells goods directly to consumers rather than to other businesses
real estateProperty consisting of land and buildings; the business of buying and selling such property
vaccineA biological preparation that provides active immunity against a particular infectious disease
gangAn organized group of people, often involved in criminal activities or antisocial behavior
slamTo shut or strike with great force and noise; a forceful impact or closure
liberalOpen to new ideas and progressive change; generous in giving; relating to political views favoring individual freedom
resistanceThe refusal to accept or comply with something; the ability to withstand the effects of something harmful
memorialSomething established to preserve the memory of a person or event; a monument or commemorative structure
welfareThe health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group; financial support provided by the state
blendA mixture of different elements combined harmoniously; to mix together
fixedSecurely positioned and not subject to change or movement; established and unchanging
literallyIn a literal manner; exactly as stated; used for emphasis even when not strictly accurate
eliteA select group regarded as superior in ability, intellect, wealth, or social standing
juryA group of citizens sworn to deliver a verdict based on evidence presented in court
keenEager, enthusiastic; having a sharp edge or point; intellectually acute
eligibleA person who qualifies or meets the requirements for selection, participation, or consideration
replacementA person or thing that takes the place of another; the action of substituting one thing for another
interiorThe inside part of something; the inner area of a building or space
outfitA set of clothes worn together; a group of people working together as a team
donateTo give money or goods for a good cause; to contribute voluntarily
profileAn outline of a face from the side; a brief description of a person; public attention
friendlyA match or game played for enjoyment rather than as part of a serious competition
componentA part or element of a larger whole, especially a machine or system
procedureAn established or official way of doing something; a series of actions
salaryA fixed regular payment for work, typically expressed as an annual amount and paid monthly
completionThe action of finishing something; the state of being complete
convertTo change into a different form or state; a person who has changed beliefs
utilityThe state of being useful, profitable, or beneficial; a public service such as electricity, gas, or water supply
regardlessWithout being affected or influenced by something; despite the prevailing circumstances or conditions
rangerA person responsible for protecting a forest or nature reserve
arenaA large enclosed area for sports, entertainment, or other public events; also a sphere of activity
paradeA public procession celebrating a special occasion; to march in a ceremonial manner
exceedTo go beyond a specified limit, measure, or standard; to be greater than
villaA large and luxurious country residence, especially in a warm climate; a detached house typically used for holidays
nationwideExtending or occurring throughout an entire nation
comprehensiveIncluding all or nearly all elements; complete and thorough
showcaseA setting or event designed to exhibit something favorably; a glass case for displaying items
employerA person or organization that engages and pays workers for their labor or services
fameThe state of being known or talked about by many people; widespread renown or celebrity
feedbackInformation about reactions to a product or performance, used as a basis for improvement
disputeA disagreement or argument; to question the truth of something
involvementThe state of being involved or participating in something; engagement or participation
therapyTreatment intended to relieve or heal a physical or mental disorder
segmentA separate part of something that is distinct from the whole; a section or portion
surgeA sudden powerful forward or upward movement; a rapid increase
ventureA risky or daring journey or undertaking; a business enterprise involving considerable risk
provisionThe act of supplying something; a clause in a legal document; supplies of food
trailerA vehicle towed by another; a preview of a film; a mobile home
residenceThe place where a person lives, especially a house or apartment; the fact of living in a particular place
constantOccurring continuously; unchanging over time; a fixed value
extensiveCovering a large area; having great range or scope; comprehensive and thorough
regimeA system of government, especially an authoritarian one, or a systematic way of organizing or managing something
stabTo pierce or wound with a pointed object; an attempt at doing something
rearThe back part of something; to raise and care for young; located at the back
disruptTo interrupt the normal progress of something
sweepTo clean by brushing away dirt; a long swift curving movement
compensationSomething given to make up for loss, suffering, or injury; payment for work
genreA category of artistic composition characterized by similarities in form, style, or subject matter
sueTo institute legal proceedings against a person or organization, typically to seek compensation
condemnTo express strong disapproval of; to sentence to punishment; to declare unfit
easeFreedom from difficulty, effort, or hardship; the capability to accomplish something without strain
portionA part of a whole; an amount of food served to one person
soilThe upper layer of earth in which plants grow; to make dirty or stain
swingTo move back and forth or from side to side; a seat hanging from ropes or chains
manufacturerA person or company that makes goods for sale, especially in a factory
followerA person who supports and admires someone or their ideas; an adherent or disciple
carbonA chemical element fundamental to organic compounds and life on Earth
dedicationThe quality of being committed to a task; a ceremony of opening
externalThe outer surface or appearance; outward features or aspects as opposed to internal ones
participationThe act of taking part or sharing in an activity or event
resumeTo begin again or continue after an interruption; to take back or return to a former position
universalRelating to or affecting all people or things in the world; applicable in all cases
reminderSomething that causes someone to remember something, or a message or communication designed to prompt action
iconA person or thing regarded as a representative symbol; a devotional painting of a sacred figure
essentiallyIn essence; fundamentally; at the most basic level; used to indicate the intrinsic nature of something
spokesmanA male person who speaks officially on behalf of an organization, group, or another person
latterThe second of two things mentioned; situated or occurring nearer to the end
percentageA proportion or share expressed as a number out of 100
packedVery full or crowded; arranged in containers for transport or storage
swiftHappening quickly or promptly; moving or capable of moving at high speed
reinforceTo strengthen or support something by adding extra material, resources, or emphasis to make it more effective
assureTo tell someone confidently that something is true or will happen; to guarantee
landingThe act of coming down to the ground; a platform at the top of stairs
sensitiveQuick to detect or respond to slight changes or signals; easily hurt emotionally; requiring careful treatment
provenDemonstrated to be true or effective through evidence or experience
secondaryComing after or less important than something primary; relating to education between primary and higher levels
tagA label attached to something for identification; to attach a label or mark
human rightsFundamental rights to which all humans are entitled regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or other status
hybridA thing made by combining two different elements; offspring of two organisms of different species
strikingAttracting attention by being unusual, remarkable, or dramatic
demandingRequiring much skill, effort, or attention; difficult
medicationA substance used to treat illness or injury; medicine or drugs
traderA person who buys and sells goods or financial instruments as a business
legendaryDescribed in or based on legends; remarkably famous or renowned
ultimateBeing the best or most extreme example of its kind; final in a process
intentThe purpose or aim behind an action; determined mental focus on accomplishing something
accommodationA place to live, stay, or work; an adjustment or adaptation to suit particular conditions
counterA surface for transactions; opposing; to respond in opposition
commanderA person who holds authority or control over a military force or operation
moralConcerned with principles of right and wrong behavior; the lesson derived from a story
violateTo break or fail to comply with a rule, law, or agreement; to treat something sacred with irreverence
confrontTo face someone or something in a challenging or hostile way; to deal with
inspectorAn official who examines things to ensure they meet required standards
activelyIn a way that involves direct participation or energetic engagement
genuineTruly what it is said to be; authentic; sincere and honest in character
gearEquipment, apparatus, or accessories for a particular activity or purpose
ramAn adult male sheep; to crash forcefully into something
clarifyTo make something clearer or easier to understand; to remove confusion
coachingThe process of training or instructing someone to improve skills or performance
designerA person who plans the appearance or workings of something
unlockTo unfasten a lock; to make available or accessible
embraceThe act of holding someone closely in one's arms, typically as a gesture of affection or comfort
globallyThroughout the world; in a way that relates to or affects the entire world
millA building equipped with machinery for grinding grain; a factory for processing materials
tonA unit of weight equal to 2,000 pounds in the US or 2,240 pounds in the UK; a large amount
executeTo carry out a death sentence on a condemned person; to put to death as legal punishment
navyThe branch of a nation's armed forces that conducts military operations at sea
soloA performance or activity done by one person alone; a musical piece for a single performer
awaitTo wait for something or someone; to be in store for
consultTo seek advice or information from someone with expertise
fundamentalA basic principle, rule, or law that serves as the groundwork for a system or theory
nominationThe act of proposing someone for a position or award; a formal proposal
cableA thick rope or wire used for transmitting signals or power; subscription television
detectTo discover or identify the presence of something
labelA small piece of paper or other material attached to an object giving information about it
exceptionalUnusually excellent; surpassing what is common, usual, or expected; remarkable
substanceA particular kind of matter with uniform properties; the essential nature or meaning of something
timingThe choice or control of when something should happen; the ability to select the right moment
acquisitionThe act of obtaining or gaining possession of something, especially through deliberate effort
controversyProlonged public disagreement or heated debate
ambassadorA diplomat representing their country abroad
popularityThe state of being liked, admired, or supported by many people
shedA simple roofed structure for storage; to lose naturally or cast off; to emit or give off
ballotA system of voting; the paper or method used to cast a vote
clothingItems worn to cover the body; garments collectively
mortgageA loan secured against property, typically used to purchase real estate
leaseA contract by which property is conveyed for a specified period in return for payment; the period of such a contract
spinTo rotate rapidly; to present information in a particular way to influence perception
preventionThe act of stopping something from happening or arising
evilProfound immorality and malevolence; the quality of being morally reprehensible
innovativeFeaturing new methods or ideas; advanced and original in approach
riderA person who rides a horse, bicycle, motorcycle, or other vehicle; an additional clause to a document
deficitAn excess of expenditure over income; a deficiency or shortage
attendanceThe action or state of being present; the number of people present at an event
helicopterAn aircraft that achieves lift from rotating blades, enabling vertical takeoff and landing
commerceThe activity of buying and selling goods and services, especially on a large scale
necessarilyAs a necessary result; inevitably
justifyTo show or prove to be right or reasonable; to provide adequate grounds for
smashTo break violently into pieces; a powerful blow or collision; a great success
corruptionDishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power; moral deterioration
enforceTo ensure compliance with laws, regulations, or rules through authority or compulsion
offenderA person who commits an offense or breaks a law
outputThe amount produced or processed; the data or results produced by a system
laptopA portable computer small enough to be used while resting on one's lap
rocketA vehicle or device propelled by the combustion of its contents; to move or increase very rapidly
refugeeA person who has been forced to leave their country due to war, persecution, or natural disaster and seeks safety in another country
outlookA person's point of view; a prediction of future developments; a view from a particular place
peerA person of equal status or age; to look closely and carefully
sparkA small fiery particle; something that ignites or initiates; to emit tiny flashes
strictlyIn a way that involves rigid enforcement of rules; exactly or precisely
firearmA weapon from which a projectile is discharged by gunpowder; a gun or rifle
so-calledCommonly named or designated as such, often used to express skepticism about the accuracy of the term
bounceTo spring back after hitting a surface; a rebound or recovery
probeTo investigate or examine thoroughly; an investigation; a device for exploring
refreshTo give new energy, vigor, or life to something or someone, or to update information by loading the latest version
chancellorA senior official in government or a university; head of government in some countries
holderA person or thing that holds something; one who possesses or controls something
facilitateTo make an action or process easier; to assist the progress of something
datedOld-fashioned; no longer current or popular
impressedHaving a strong favorable effect on someone; feeling admiration or respect
walkerA person who walks, especially for exercise or pleasure; a frame used by disabled or elderly people for support while walking
maskA covering for the face used for protection, disguise, or ceremonial purposes; to conceal or disguise
implementA tool, utensil, or device used for a particular purpose
rentalProperty or equipment available for temporary use in exchange for payment, or the amount paid for such use
abandonedLeft behind permanently; showing a complete lack of inhibition or restraint
deemTo consider or judge something in a particular way
incentiveSomething that motivates or encourages someone to do something; a stimulus to action
overlookTo fail to notice or consider; to have a view from above; a high place with a view
lightingThe arrangement or provision of light in a space; the quality and distribution of illumination
publicationThe act of making information available to the public; a published work
excludeTo deny access to; to bar from participation, consideration, or inclusion
short-termLasting for or relating to a brief period of time; not extending far into the future
hedgeA row of bushes or small trees forming a boundary; a means of protection or defense
fatalCausing death; having extremely unfortunate or ruinous consequences
decentOf an acceptable standard; respectable; morally appropriate
disorderA lack of order or regular arrangement; a medical condition
crackA narrow opening or break; to break without complete separation
hardwareThe physical components of a computer system; tools and equipment for building or repair
disciplineTraining to obey rules; a branch of knowledge; self-control
fleetA group of ships, vehicles, or aircraft operating together under the same ownership or command
shieldA protective device or barrier; to protect from danger or harm
statisticsThe practice of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting numerical data; data so collected and analyzed
surveillanceClose observation of a person or group, especially by authorities; monitoring
applicantA person who formally requests or applies for something, especially a job or position
resignTo voluntarily leave a position or job, or to accept something undesirable as inevitable
inputSomething put in; a contribution of information, resources, or effort
tollA charge for using a road or bridge; the cost in terms of damage or suffering; to ring a bell
fateThe development of events beyond human control, regarded as predetermined by a supernatural power
regulateTo control or maintain something according to rules, principles, or laws, ensuring proper functioning or compliance
soarTo fly high in the air; to rise rapidly to a high level
gripA firm hold; the ability to maintain control or understanding of something
grossUnattractively large or coarse; total amount before deductions; blatantly offensive
lifetimeThe duration of a person's life; the period during which something exists or functions
explosiveA substance that can be made to explode, especially for demolition or as a weapon
economistA specialist in economics who analyzes financial data, markets, and policy implications
temporarilyFor a limited period of time; not permanently
concreteA building material made from cement; existing in reality; specific rather than abstract
headquartersThe administrative center of an organization; the main offices from which operations are directed
scandalAn action or event causing public outrage due to perceived wrongdoing or immorality
adoptionThe act of legally taking another's child as one's own
flameThe visible portion of fire; a stream of burning gas or vapor that emits light and heat
ashThe powdery residue left after the combustion of a substance; also a type of tree
recipeA set of instructions for preparing a particular dish; a formula for achieving something
convincedCompletely certain about something; persuaded of the truth
certificateAn official document attesting to a fact, qualification, or achievement
hangThe way something falls or drapes; the general tendency or drift of a matter
preliminaryComing before the main part or business; preparatory
administrativeRelating to the management of an organization or system
hospitalityThe friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests or strangers
legislativeRelating to the making of laws or to a body of legislators; having the power to make laws
guidelineA general rule, principle, or piece of advice that provides direction or guidance
fabricCloth produced by weaving or knitting textile fibers; the basic structure of something
supplierA person or company that provides goods or services to another business
threatenTo express intention to cause harm or damage; to be a source of danger
implicationSomething that is suggested or implied; a likely consequence or effect
obligationA duty or commitment; something one is bound to do by contract, promise, or moral responsibility
concedeTo admit or acknowledge something as true; to surrender or yield
formerlyIn earlier times; previously; at a time in the past
mobilityThe ability to move or be moved freely and easily; social movement between classes
consoleTo comfort someone; a panel of controls; a gaming system
pursuitThe act of chasing or seeking something; an activity or hobby
adoptedLegally taken as one's own child; chosen or accepted
migrationThe movement of people or animals from one region or country to another; the process of moving data or systems
semi-finalA match or round in a competition that precedes the final, with the winners advancing to the championship match
thrilledFeeling intense excitement and pleasure; extremely pleased
seasonalRelating to or characteristic of a particular season; occurring at specific times of the year
dischargeTo release from duty or obligation; to allow to leave; a substance emitted
pedestrianA person walking rather than traveling by vehicle; ordinary and uninspiring
entrepreneurA person who organizes, operates, and assumes the financial risk of a business venture
contemporaryBelonging to the present time; modern; a person living at the same time
pirateA person who attacks ships at sea to steal; one who copies or distributes copyrighted material illegally
regardAttention, consideration, or respect given to someone or something, or to think of in a specified way
concerningRelating to; about; causing anxiety or worry
polishTo make smooth and shiny by rubbing; a substance used for buffing; refinement
tunnelAn artificial underground passage, especially one for a road or railway
costumeA 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.