vocabulary tips for essay

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• 40 Useful Words and Phrases for Top-Notch Essays

To be truly brilliant, an essay needs to utilise the right language. You could make a great point, but if it’s not intelligently articulated, you almost needn’t have bothered.

Developing the language skills to build an argument and to write persuasively is crucial if you’re to write outstanding essays every time. In this article, we’re going to equip you with the words and phrases you need to write a top-notch essay, along with examples of how to utilise them.

It’s by no means an exhaustive list, and there will often be other ways of using the words and phrases we describe that we won’t have room to include, but there should be more than enough below to help you make an instant improvement to your essay-writing skills.

If you’re interested in developing your language and persuasive skills, Oxford Royale offers summer courses at its Oxford Summer School , Cambridge Summer School , London Summer School , San Francisco Summer School and Yale Summer School . You can study courses to learn english , prepare for careers in law , medicine , business , engineering and leadership.

General explaining

Let’s start by looking at language for general explanations of complex points.

1. In order to

Usage: “In order to” can be used to introduce an explanation for the purpose of an argument. Example: “In order to understand X, we need first to understand Y.”

2. In other words

Usage: Use “in other words” when you want to express something in a different way (more simply), to make it easier to understand, or to emphasise or expand on a point. Example: “Frogs are amphibians. In other words, they live on the land and in the water.”

3. To put it another way

Usage: This phrase is another way of saying “in other words”, and can be used in particularly complex points, when you feel that an alternative way of wording a problem may help the reader achieve a better understanding of its significance. Example: “Plants rely on photosynthesis. To put it another way, they will die without the sun.”

4. That is to say

Usage: “That is” and “that is to say” can be used to add further detail to your explanation, or to be more precise. Example: “Whales are mammals. That is to say, they must breathe air.”

5. To that end

Usage: Use “to that end” or “to this end” in a similar way to “in order to” or “so”. Example: “Zoologists have long sought to understand how animals communicate with each other. To that end, a new study has been launched that looks at elephant sounds and their possible meanings.”

Adding additional information to support a point

Students often make the mistake of using synonyms of “and” each time they want to add further information in support of a point they’re making, or to build an argument . Here are some cleverer ways of doing this.

6. Moreover

Usage: Employ “moreover” at the start of a sentence to add extra information in support of a point you’re making. Example: “Moreover, the results of a recent piece of research provide compelling evidence in support of…”

7. Furthermore

Usage:This is also generally used at the start of a sentence, to add extra information. Example: “Furthermore, there is evidence to suggest that…”

8. What’s more

Usage: This is used in the same way as “moreover” and “furthermore”. Example: “What’s more, this isn’t the only evidence that supports this hypothesis.”

9. Likewise

Usage: Use “likewise” when you want to talk about something that agrees with what you’ve just mentioned. Example: “Scholar A believes X. Likewise, Scholar B argues compellingly in favour of this point of view.”

10. Similarly

Usage: Use “similarly” in the same way as “likewise”. Example: “Audiences at the time reacted with shock to Beethoven’s new work, because it was very different to what they were used to. Similarly, we have a tendency to react with surprise to the unfamiliar.”

11. Another key thing to remember

Usage: Use the phrase “another key point to remember” or “another key fact to remember” to introduce additional facts without using the word “also”. Example: “As a Romantic, Blake was a proponent of a closer relationship between humans and nature. Another key point to remember is that Blake was writing during the Industrial Revolution, which had a major impact on the world around him.”

12. As well as

Usage: Use “as well as” instead of “also” or “and”. Example: “Scholar A argued that this was due to X, as well as Y.”

13. Not only… but also

Usage: This wording is used to add an extra piece of information, often something that’s in some way more surprising or unexpected than the first piece of information. Example: “Not only did Edmund Hillary have the honour of being the first to reach the summit of Everest, but he was also appointed Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire.”

14. Coupled with

Usage: Used when considering two or more arguments at a time. Example: “Coupled with the literary evidence, the statistics paint a compelling view of…”

15. Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

Usage: This can be used to structure an argument, presenting facts clearly one after the other. Example: “There are many points in support of this view. Firstly, X. Secondly, Y. And thirdly, Z.

16. Not to mention/to say nothing of

Usage: “Not to mention” and “to say nothing of” can be used to add extra information with a bit of emphasis. Example: “The war caused unprecedented suffering to millions of people, not to mention its impact on the country’s economy.”

Words and phrases for demonstrating contrast

When you’re developing an argument, you will often need to present contrasting or opposing opinions or evidence – “it could show this, but it could also show this”, or “X says this, but Y disagrees”. This section covers words you can use instead of the “but” in these examples, to make your writing sound more intelligent and interesting.

17. However

Usage: Use “however” to introduce a point that disagrees with what you’ve just said. Example: “Scholar A thinks this. However, Scholar B reached a different conclusion.”

18. On the other hand

Usage: Usage of this phrase includes introducing a contrasting interpretation of the same piece of evidence, a different piece of evidence that suggests something else, or an opposing opinion. Example: “The historical evidence appears to suggest a clear-cut situation. On the other hand, the archaeological evidence presents a somewhat less straightforward picture of what happened that day.”

19. Having said that

Usage: Used in a similar manner to “on the other hand” or “but”. Example: “The historians are unanimous in telling us X, an agreement that suggests that this version of events must be an accurate account. Having said that, the archaeology tells a different story.”

20. By contrast/in comparison

Usage: Use “by contrast” or “in comparison” when you’re comparing and contrasting pieces of evidence. Example: “Scholar A’s opinion, then, is based on insufficient evidence. By contrast, Scholar B’s opinion seems more plausible.”

21. Then again

Usage: Use this to cast doubt on an assertion. Example: “Writer A asserts that this was the reason for what happened. Then again, it’s possible that he was being paid to say this.”

22. That said

Usage: This is used in the same way as “then again”. Example: “The evidence ostensibly appears to point to this conclusion. That said, much of the evidence is unreliable at best.”

Usage: Use this when you want to introduce a contrasting idea. Example: “Much of scholarship has focused on this evidence. Yet not everyone agrees that this is the most important aspect of the situation.”

Adding a proviso or acknowledging reservations

Sometimes, you may need to acknowledge a shortfalling in a piece of evidence, or add a proviso. Here are some ways of doing so.

24. Despite this

Usage: Use “despite this” or “in spite of this” when you want to outline a point that stands regardless of a shortfalling in the evidence. Example: “The sample size was small, but the results were important despite this.”

25. With this in mind

Usage: Use this when you want your reader to consider a point in the knowledge of something else. Example: “We’ve seen that the methods used in the 19th century study did not always live up to the rigorous standards expected in scientific research today, which makes it difficult to draw definite conclusions. With this in mind, let’s look at a more recent study to see how the results compare.”

26. Provided that

Usage: This means “on condition that”. You can also say “providing that” or just “providing” to mean the same thing. Example: “We may use this as evidence to support our argument, provided that we bear in mind the limitations of the methods used to obtain it.”

27. In view of/in light of

Usage: These phrases are used when something has shed light on something else. Example: “In light of the evidence from the 2013 study, we have a better understanding of…”

28. Nonetheless

Usage: This is similar to “despite this”. Example: “The study had its limitations, but it was nonetheless groundbreaking for its day.”

29. Nevertheless

Usage: This is the same as “nonetheless”. Example: “The study was flawed, but it was important nevertheless.”

30. Notwithstanding

Usage: This is another way of saying “nonetheless”. Example: “Notwithstanding the limitations of the methodology used, it was an important study in the development of how we view the workings of the human mind.”

Giving examples

Good essays always back up points with examples, but it’s going to get boring if you use the expression “for example” every time. Here are a couple of other ways of saying the same thing.

31. For instance

Example: “Some birds migrate to avoid harsher winter climates. Swallows, for instance, leave the UK in early winter and fly south…”

32. To give an illustration

Example: “To give an illustration of what I mean, let’s look at the case of…”

Signifying importance

When you want to demonstrate that a point is particularly important, there are several ways of highlighting it as such.

33. Significantly

Usage: Used to introduce a point that is loaded with meaning that might not be immediately apparent. Example: “Significantly, Tacitus omits to tell us the kind of gossip prevalent in Suetonius’ accounts of the same period.”

34. Notably

Usage: This can be used to mean “significantly” (as above), and it can also be used interchangeably with “in particular” (the example below demonstrates the first of these ways of using it). Example: “Actual figures are notably absent from Scholar A’s analysis.”

35. Importantly

Usage: Use “importantly” interchangeably with “significantly”. Example: “Importantly, Scholar A was being employed by X when he wrote this work, and was presumably therefore under pressure to portray the situation more favourably than he perhaps might otherwise have done.”

Summarising

You’ve almost made it to the end of the essay, but your work isn’t over yet. You need to end by wrapping up everything you’ve talked about, showing that you’ve considered the arguments on both sides and reached the most likely conclusion. Here are some words and phrases to help you.

36. In conclusion

Usage: Typically used to introduce the concluding paragraph or sentence of an essay, summarising what you’ve discussed in a broad overview. Example: “In conclusion, the evidence points almost exclusively to Argument A.”

37. Above all

Usage: Used to signify what you believe to be the most significant point, and the main takeaway from the essay. Example: “Above all, it seems pertinent to remember that…”

38. Persuasive

Usage: This is a useful word to use when summarising which argument you find most convincing. Example: “Scholar A’s point – that Constanze Mozart was motivated by financial gain – seems to me to be the most persuasive argument for her actions following Mozart’s death.”

39. Compelling

Usage: Use in the same way as “persuasive” above. Example: “The most compelling argument is presented by Scholar A.”

40. All things considered

Usage: This means “taking everything into account”. Example: “All things considered, it seems reasonable to assume that…”

How many of these words and phrases will you get into your next essay? And are any of your favourite essay terms missing from our list? Let us know in the comments below, or get in touch here to find out more about courses that can help you with your essays.

At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer a number of  summer school courses for young people who are keen to improve their essay writing skills. Click here to apply for one of our courses today, including law , business , medicine  and engineering .

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100+ Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay

By: Author Sophia

Posted on Last updated: October 25, 2023

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How to Write a Great Essay in English! This lesson provides 100+ useful words, transition words and expressions used in writing an essay. Let’s take a look!

The secret to a successful essay doesn’t just lie in the clever things you talk about and the way you structure your points.

Useful Words and Phrases to Write a Great Essay

Overview of an essay.

Useful Phrases for Proficiency Essays

Developing the argument

• The first aspect to point out is that…
• Let us start by considering the facts.
• The novel portrays, deals with, revolves around…
• Central to the novel is…
• The character of xxx embodies/ epitomizes…

The other side of the argument

• It would also be interesting to see…
• One should, nevertheless, consider the problem from another angle.
• Equally relevant to the issue are the questions of…
• The arguments we have presented… suggest that…/ prove that…/ would indicate that…
• From these arguments one must…/ could…/ might… conclude that…
• All of this points to the conclusion that…
• To conclude…

Ordering elements

• Firstly,…/ Secondly,…/ Finally,… (note the comma after all these introductory words.)
• As a final point…
• On the one hand, …. on the other hand…
• If on the one hand it can be said that… the same is not true for…
• The first argument suggests that… whilst the second suggests that…
• There are at least xxx points to highlight.

Adding elements

• Furthermore, one should not forget that…
• In addition to…
• Moreover…
• It is important to add that…

Accepting other points of view

• Nevertheless, one should accept that…
• However, we also agree that…

Personal opinion

• We/I personally believe that…
• Our/My own point of view is that…
• It is my contention that…
• I am convinced that…
• My own opinion is…

Others’ opinions

• According to some critics… Critics:
• believe that
• suggest that
• are convinced that
• point out that
• emphasize that
• contend that
• go as far as to say that
• argue for this

Introducing examples

• For example…
• For instance…
• To illustrate this point…

Introducing facts

• It is… true that…/ clear that…/ noticeable that…
• One should note here that…

Saying what you think is true

• This leads us to believe that…
• It is very possible that…
• In view of these facts, it is quite likely that…
• Doubtless,…
• One cannot deny that…
• It is (very) clear from these observations that…
• All the same, it is possible that…
• It is difficult to believe that…

Accepting other points to a certain degree

• One can agree up to a certain point with…
• Certainly,… However,…
• It cannot be denied that…

Emphasizing particular points

• The last example highlights the fact that…
• Not only… but also…
• We would even go so far as to say that…

Moderating, agreeing, disagreeing

• By and large…
• Perhaps we should also point out the fact that…
• It would be unfair not to mention the fact that…
• One must admit that…
• We cannot ignore the fact that…
• One cannot possibly accept the fact that…

Consequences

• From these facts, one may conclude that…
• That is why, in our opinion, …
• Which seems to confirm the idea that…
• Thus,…/ Therefore,…
• Some critics suggest…, whereas others…
• Compared to…
• On the one hand, there is the firm belief that… On the other hand, many people are convinced that…

How to Write a Great Essay | Image 1

How to Write a Great Essay | Image 2

Phrases For Balanced Arguments

Introduction

• It is often said that…
• It is undeniable that…
• It is a well-known fact that…
• One of the most striking features of this text is…
• The first thing that needs to be said is…
• First of all, let us try to analyze…
• One argument in support of…
• We must distinguish carefully between…
• The second reason for…
• An important aspect of the text is…
• It is worth stating at this point that…
• On the other hand, we can observe that…
• The other side of the coin is, however, that…
• Another way of looking at this question is to…
• What conclusions can be drawn from all this?
• The most satisfactory conclusion that we can come to is…
• To sum up… we are convinced that…/ …we believe that…/ …we have to accept that…

How to Write a Great Essay | Image 3

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Words to Use in an Essay: 300 Essay Words

Hannah Yang

Table of Contents

Words to use in the essay introduction, words to use in the body of the essay, words to use in your essay conclusion, how to improve your essay writing vocabulary.

It’s not easy to write an academic essay .

Many students struggle to word their arguments in a logical and concise way.

To make matters worse, academic essays need to adhere to a certain level of formality, so we can’t always use the same word choices in essay writing that we would use in daily life.

If you’re struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay.

The introduction is one of the hardest parts of an essay to write.

You have only one chance to make a first impression, and you want to hook your reader. If the introduction isn’t effective, the reader might not even bother to read the rest of the essay.

That’s why it’s important to be thoughtful and deliberate with the words you choose at the beginning of your essay.

Many students use a quote in the introductory paragraph to establish credibility and set the tone for the rest of the essay.

When you’re referencing another author or speaker, try using some of these phrases:

To use the words of X

According to X

As X states

Example: To use the words of Hillary Clinton, “You cannot have maternal health without reproductive health.”

Near the end of the introduction, you should state the thesis to explain the central point of your paper.

If you’re not sure how to introduce your thesis, try using some of these phrases:

In this essay, I will…

The purpose of this essay…

This essay discusses…

In this paper, I put forward the claim that…

There are three main arguments for…

Example: In this essay, I will explain why dress codes in public schools are detrimental to students.

After you’ve stated your thesis, it’s time to start presenting the arguments you’ll use to back up that central idea.

When you’re introducing the first of a series of arguments, you can use the following words:

First and foremost

First of all

To begin with

Example: First , consider the effects that this new social security policy would have on low-income taxpayers.

All these words and phrases will help you create a more successful introduction and convince your audience to read on.

The body of your essay is where you’ll explain your core arguments and present your evidence.

It’s important to choose words and phrases for the body of your essay that will help the reader understand your position and convince them you’ve done your research.

Let’s look at some different types of words and phrases that you can use in the body of your essay, as well as some examples of what these words look like in a sentence.

Transition Words and Phrases

Transitioning from one argument to another is crucial for a good essay.

It’s important to guide your reader from one idea to the next so they don’t get lost or feel like you’re jumping around at random.

Transition phrases and linking words show your reader you’re about to move from one argument to the next, smoothing out their reading experience. They also make your writing look more professional.

The simplest transition involves moving from one idea to a separate one that supports the same overall argument. Try using these phrases when you want to introduce a second correlating idea:

Additionally

In addition

Furthermore

Another key thing to remember

In the same way

Correspondingly

Example: Additionally , public parks increase property value because home buyers prefer houses that are located close to green, open spaces.

Another type of transition involves restating. It’s often useful to restate complex ideas in simpler terms to help the reader digest them. When you’re restating an idea, you can use the following words:

In other words

To put it another way

That is to say

To put it more simply

Example: “The research showed that 53% of students surveyed expressed a mild or strong preference for more on-campus housing. In other words , over half the students wanted more dormitory options.”

Often, you’ll need to provide examples to illustrate your point more clearly for the reader. When you’re about to give an example of something you just said, you can use the following words:

For instance

To give an illustration of

To exemplify

To demonstrate

As evidence

Example: Humans have long tried to exert control over our natural environment. For instance , engineers reversed the Chicago River in 1900, causing it to permanently flow backward.

Sometimes, you’ll need to explain the impact or consequence of something you’ve just said.

When you’re drawing a conclusion from evidence you’ve presented, try using the following words:

As a result

Accordingly

As you can see

This suggests that

It follows that

It can be seen that

For this reason

For all of those reasons

Consequently

Example: “There wasn’t enough government funding to support the rest of the physics experiment. Thus , the team was forced to shut down their experiment in 1996.”

When introducing an idea that bolsters one you’ve already stated, or adds another important aspect to that same argument, you can use the following words:

What’s more

Not only…but also

Not to mention

To say nothing of

Another key point

Example: The volcanic eruption disrupted hundreds of thousands of people. Moreover , it impacted the local flora and fauna as well, causing nearly a hundred species to go extinct.

Often, you'll want to present two sides of the same argument. When you need to compare and contrast ideas, you can use the following words:

On the one hand / on the other hand

Alternatively

In contrast to

On the contrary

By contrast

In comparison

Example: On the one hand , the Black Death was undoubtedly a tragedy because it killed millions of Europeans. On the other hand , it created better living conditions for the peasants who survived.

Finally, when you’re introducing a new angle that contradicts your previous idea, you can use the following phrases:

Having said that

Differing from

In spite of

With this in mind

Provided that

Nevertheless

Nonetheless

Notwithstanding

Example: Shakespearean plays are classic works of literature that have stood the test of time. Having said that , I would argue that Shakespeare isn’t the most accessible form of literature to teach students in the twenty-first century.

Good essays include multiple types of logic. You can use a combination of the transitions above to create a strong, clear structure throughout the body of your essay.

Strong Verbs for Academic Writing

Verbs are especially important for writing clear essays. Often, you can convey a nuanced meaning simply by choosing the right verb.

You should use strong verbs that are precise and dynamic. Whenever possible, you should use an unambiguous verb, rather than a generic verb.

For example, alter and fluctuate are stronger verbs than change , because they give the reader more descriptive detail.

Here are some useful verbs that will help make your essay shine.

Verbs that show change:

Accommodate

Verbs that relate to causing or impacting something:

Verbs that show increase:

Verbs that show decrease:

Deteriorate

Verbs that relate to parts of a whole:

Comprises of

Is composed of

Constitutes

Encompasses

Incorporates

Verbs that show a negative stance:

Misconstrue

Verbs that show a positive stance:

Substantiate

Verbs that relate to drawing conclusions from evidence:

Corroborate

Demonstrate

Verbs that relate to thinking and analysis:

Contemplate

Hypothesize

Investigate

Verbs that relate to showing information in a visual format:

Useful Adjectives and Adverbs for Academic Essays

You should use adjectives and adverbs more sparingly than verbs when writing essays, since they sometimes add unnecessary fluff to sentences.

However, choosing the right adjectives and adverbs can help add detail and sophistication to your essay.

Sometimes you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is useful and should be taken seriously. Here are some adjectives that create positive emphasis:

Significant

Other times, you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is harmful or ineffective. Here are some adjectives that create a negative emphasis:

Controversial

Insignificant

Questionable

Unnecessary

Unrealistic

Finally, you might need to use an adverb to lend nuance to a sentence, or to express a specific degree of certainty. Here are some examples of adverbs that are often used in essays:

Comprehensively

Exhaustively

Extensively

Respectively

Surprisingly

Using these words will help you successfully convey the key points you want to express. Once you’ve nailed the body of your essay, it’s time to move on to the conclusion.

The conclusion of your paper is important for synthesizing the arguments you’ve laid out and restating your thesis.

In your concluding paragraph, try using some of these essay words:

In conclusion

To summarize

In a nutshell

Given the above

As described

All things considered

Example: In conclusion , it’s imperative that we take action to address climate change before we lose our coral reefs forever.

In addition to simply summarizing the key points from the body of your essay, you should also add some final takeaways. Give the reader your final opinion and a bit of a food for thought.

To place emphasis on a certain point or a key fact, use these essay words:

Unquestionably

Undoubtedly

Particularly

Importantly

Conclusively

It should be noted

On the whole

Example: Ada Lovelace is unquestionably a powerful role model for young girls around the world, and more of our public school curricula should include her as a historical figure.

These concluding phrases will help you finish writing your essay in a strong, confident way.

There are many useful essay words out there that we didn't include in this article, because they are specific to certain topics.

If you're writing about biology, for example, you will need to use different terminology than if you're writing about literature.

So how do you improve your vocabulary skills?

The vocabulary you use in your academic writing is a toolkit you can build up over time, as long as you take the time to learn new words.

One way to increase your vocabulary is by looking up words you don’t know when you’re reading.

Try reading more books and academic articles in the field you’re writing about and jotting down all the new words you find. You can use these words to bolster your own essays.

You can also consult a dictionary or a thesaurus. When you’re using a word you’re not confident about, researching its meaning and common synonyms can help you make sure it belongs in your essay.

Don't be afraid of using simpler words. Good essay writing boils down to choosing the best word to convey what you need to say, not the fanciest word possible.

Finally, you can use ProWritingAid’s synonym tool or essay checker to find more precise and sophisticated vocabulary. Click on weak words in your essay to find stronger alternatives.

There you have it: our compilation of the best words and phrases to use in your next essay . Good luck!

Good writing = better grades

ProWritingAid will help you improve the style, strength, and clarity of all your assignments.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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How to Improve Your Vocabulary

Use the links below to jump directly to any section of this guide:

Vocabulary Fundamentals

How to comprehend unfamiliar words , how to prepare for vocabulary questions on standardized tests, how to answer vocabulary questions on standardized tests, how to use your vocabulary in writing, vocabulary games, resources for teaching vocabulary.

Your vocabulary is comprised of all the words you know: words you can read, write, speak, define, and recognize. Improving your vocabulary provides access to a broader range of verbal expression, and helps you perceive the nuances of the English language. When reading a novel or a newspaper article, your grasp of uncommon words allows you to understand the writer's finer points. When writing a paper or essay, your careful articulation makes you sound insightful, original, and authoritative. While using a dictionary or thesaurus can help you vary diction on the go, study tools can help you expand your word retention and recall. This will help you in the classroom, on standardized tests, and in everyday conversation. This guide is a collection of dozens of links to vocabulary resources that we have researched, categorized, and annotated in order to help you improve your vocabulary and test-taking skills.

What does "vocabulary" really mean in practice? Why is it important in real-world situations? How does vocabulary acquisition and development work? This section contains blog posts and articles that introduce you to the basics of vocabulary, from its definition to its relevance.

"Vocabulary" (Wikipedia)

Wikipedia's article defines "vocabulary" and discusses cognitive assessments, types of vocabulary, the process of vocabulary growth, and methods of vocabulary enhancement.

"Why A Substantial Vocabulary Is Important" ( Gray Matter Blog)

This blog post from Elevate's Gray Matter  talks about how vocabulary improves your life outside of reading and writing—by making you a faster thinker, a more productive worker, and a better citizen. It also offers five lifestyle tips for improving your vocabulary.

"Vocabulary and Its Importance in Language Learning" (TESOL)

This excerpt from an English-as-a-second-language teacher's handbook is helpful for thinking about the abstract benefits of vocabulary, as well as showing what vocabulary knowledge is and how it can be measured in practice. 

"Definition and Examples of Vocabulary" (ThoughtCo)

In this blog post, you'll find definitions of vocabulary, links to related topics like etymology, word roots, and regional English dialects, and links to worksheets and games to improve your vocabulary.

"The Importance of Vocabulary In Writing" ( Time4Writing )

This article from a popular writing blog explains how having a good vocabulary makes your writing more descriptive, more suited to your audience, and more varied. It ends with simple tips to improve your vocabulary. 

If you're looking to expand your vocabulary, you'll need to go through a few steps. First, you need to find a list of words. Second, you need to devise a way to review these words and their definitions, until you memorize them. Finally, you'll want to read widely so that you familiarize yourself with these words—and new ones—used in context. Explore the resources in this section for a more in-depth look at vocabulary-building strategies.

"100 Words Every High School Graduate Should Know" (American Heritage Dictionaries)

This A-Z list, curated by one of the United States' most popular dictionaries, is available both online and in an expanded book format. 

"Word Lists" (MajorTests.com)

Hundreds of vocabulary lists—both general and geared toward particular classes and exams—are available for free download on this website. 

Vocabulary.com

This website is much more complex than your average flashcard drill or interactive game (though those are good, too). Here, you'll find a wide array of question types and activities to test your vocabulary knowledge. You can even upload your own vocabulary lists into the site; it will generate content for you.

"How to Improve Your Vocabulary" (ThoughtCo)

In this blog post, you'll learn how to use a dictionary and thesaurus, how to navigate synonyms and antonyms, how to create vocabulary trees and themes, and how to use technology to help you improve your vocabulary.

"How to Expand Your Vocabulary" (WikiHow)

This illustrated, step-by-step guide expands upon ways to read for vocabulary, write with vocabulary, and build your vocabulary. Its suggestions include reading the newspaper and studying Latin roots. 

"7 Sure-fire Ways to Drastically Improve Your Vocabulary" (Lingualift)

This article, though geared toward those learning a new language, talks about scientifically proven strategies to improve your retention of vocabulary words: spacing review sessions out over time, using mnemonics, etc.

"Word Up: How to Improve and Enlarge Your Vocabulary" ( The Guardian )

This newspaper article deals with the problem of forgetting words you've learned. The author—a professional memory coach—recommends studying "little and often," making connections, developing visual associations, and using active recall. 

Whether you're reading a novel, newspaper article, or Tweet, at some point you'll come across a word you don't know. Rather than skip the word (and miss important information), you can use context clues—and even the word itself—to grasp its meaning. This section contains resources to help you comprehend vocabulary words while reading. 

"Understanding Vocabulary Words in Context" (ThoughtCo)

This blog post shows how context clues work with an example; it also includes an exercise (and answer key) for you to practice. The page links to additional practice worksheets. 

"Using Context Clues to Improve Vocabulary" (YouTube) 

This video tutorial from Love Your Pencil introduces the idea of context clues and help you understand why they're important (and easy to use). It uses SAT-style reading passages to demonstrate how to figure out a word, then walks through worksheet examples to simulate an in-class experience.

"7 Strategies for Using Context Clues in Reading" (TeachThought)

By reading this blog post from a teacher-to-teacher website, you'll learn how to use prefixes and suffixes, synonyms, explanations, examples, antonyms, analogies, and appositives to work out what an unknown word means. 

"3 Ways to Understand a Word Without Using a Dictionary" (WikiHow)

WikiHow, with its customary illustrated how-to, suggests using context clues, educating yourself in basic etymology, and building your vocabulary through note-taking, reading, games, and resources like a dictionary or thesaurus. 

"Defining Twilight: Context Clues From 'Twilight'" (YouTube)

This video tutorial from CliffsNotes may use a popular young adult novel as its example text, but the techniques the tutor applies are widely applicable. These include using synonyms and information embedded in the sentence. 

The most likely place for your vocabulary to be tested is on college entrance exams such as the SAT or ACT. Typically, these exams will either ask you to deduce a word's meaning from its context in a passage, or will ask you to choose the best word to communicate an idea. This section contains resources to familiarize you with the ways vocabulary is tested on the SAT and ACT.

"What's Tested on the SAT: SAT Vocabulary" (Kaplan)

This blog post compares the new (post-2015) SAT to the old one, and outlines the types of questions that test vocabulary: words in context, rhetorical usage, and word choice. The post includes examples.

"New SAT Vocabulary" (Magoosh) 

This post from Magoosh also compares the new SAT to the old, emphasizing the importance of context to the types of questions asked. The post suggests a list of words to familiarize yourself with.

"Sample Questions" (College Board)

The definitive, official practice questions from the College Board, available here, are the best way to acquaint yourself with vocabulary-based questions on SAT.

"ACT Reading: Implications, Inference, and Vocab-In-Context" (Kaplan)

This blog post from Kaplan introduces you to the types of questions in which you will encounter vocabulary on the ACT; it includes examples of each.

"Sample Test Questions: Reading" (ACT, Inc.)

By working through these official practice questions from the makers of the ACT, you'll get a sense of the structure and feel of the test's vocabulary-based questions.

Now that you're familiar with the standardized test formats, you need to figure out how to answer vocabulary-based questions on the SAT and ACT. Besides simply strengthening your vocabulary according to the guides and strategies listed above, test-specific strategies can help you improve your performance in these areas. This section links to tips, guides, and video tutorials relating to vocabulary questions on the SAT and ACT.

"Vocab in Context Questions and Strategies for SAT Reading" (PrepScholar)

This blog post from PrepScholar is a thorough introduction to the vocabulary questions on the SAT Reading, as well as a treasure trove of tips, example questions (with answers), and common mistakes to avoid.

"Official SAT Practice" (Khan Academy)

The Khan Academy is an official, free, College Board-sponsored site on which you can find practice tests, games, and guides for vocabulary as well as the other skills tested on the SAT and PSAT.

"SAT Vocabulary in Context" (YouTube)

This recent video tutorial from Chegg uses real material from the new SAT to show you how to work out "vocabulary in context" questions, a particular type of question that relates to a short passage. 

"Vocabulary Words in Context Questions" (YouTube)

Magoosh's video tutorial demonstrates how to answer a particular subset of "vocabulary in context" question—those in which a familiar word (in this case, "support") is used in an unfamiliar way. 

"Vocab in Context Questions and Strategies for ACT Reading" (PrepScholar)

This blog post from PrepScholar is a thorough introduction to the vocabulary questions on the ACT Reading exam, as well as a treasure trove of tips, example questions (with answers), and common mistakes to avoid.

"ACT Vocabulary In Context" (YouTube)

In this video tutorial from Veritas Prep, you'll learn how the format of ACT vocabulary questions is designed to trick you; the tutors suggest tips (like defining the answer choices you know before reading the question) to keep yourself from falling into the test-makers' trap.

On standardized tests and everyday assignments, you have a chance to demonstrate the vocabulary you've learned. A wider range of expression will increase your score on the SAT and ACT, as well as allow you to communicate your ideas more effectively (thus showing your teacher that you really did read and understand The Great Gatsby !). This section contains links to tips and guides for using vocabulary in writing. 

"Tools for Writing: Improving Word Choice" (Aims Community College)

This post recommends varying your word choice, replacing generic words with specific ones, using powerful verbs, and using language appropriate for your audience. It also gives you a starter list of verbs and adjectives to broaden your usage. 

"Using Appropriate Words in an Academic Essay" (National Univ. of Singapore)

This short chapter, excerpted from a longer textbook, walks through the importance of formal vocabulary (over colloquialisms), transitions, and avoiding redundancy (repeating yourself). It is stuffed with examples, as well as a list of commonly misused words. 

"Word Choice" (Univ. of North Carolina Writing Center)

If you're hoping to troubleshoot your writing when using new vocabulary, this is a great guide. Besides warning you of cliches, wordiness, and unclear terms to avoid, the page also offers questions to ask yourself in order to use new words successfully.

"SAT Writing: Word Choice and Diction Errors" (PrepScholar)

From this well-known standardized test prep blog comes a post about frequent blunders on the SAT essay. Here, you'll find a list of commonly confused words (like "accept" and "except") and exercises to help you practice distinguishing between them.

In this digital age, hundreds of apps, online games, and widgets are available to help you improve your word retention and recall skills. This section contains links to some of the best free downloads that will help you learn while having fun, too.

"100 High School Vocab Words" (Quizlet)

From pre-established vocabulary lists, Quizlet generates online flashcards, fill-in-the-blank exercises, audio clips, practice tests, matching games, and more. This is one of several lists available on the site. 

"High School Vocabulary Tests" (Vocabtest.com)

Choose your grade level on this webpage, and you'll find tons of online tests (using question types like reverse definitions, synonym practice, and spelling fill-in-the-blank) and games to help you work on vocabulary.

This highly-rated app is loaded with 1,600 strategic vocabulary words known to appear on the SAT, ACT, GRE, and AP exams. It will help you memorize these words through the "spaced repetition" strategy.

SAT Vocabulary Visuals and Audios (VocabAhead)

For the visual learner, this app pairs over 1,000 words with individual illustrations. Track your progress with mastery charts, review what you've learned with word sheets, and test yourself with in-app assessments. 

Vocabulary Builder (Magoosh) 

This app from the SAT and ACT preparation experts uses multiple choice questions to test your retention of over 1,200 crucial vocabulary words. As you complete levels within the app, you'll unlock even more words and games.

Vocabulary.com App

Vocabulary.com's app contains over 12,000 words and ten times as many vocabulary-testing questions. An in-app dictionary helps you learn about each word's etymology, usage, and connotation, and the addicting games incentivize you to work on your vocabulary daily. 

Classroom Activities for Vocabulary

"Solving Word Meanings: Engaging Strategies for Vocabulary Development" (ReadWriteThink)

This complete lesson plan has five steps: introduce context clues (with a helpful mnemonic), practice context clues, introduce semantic gradients, practice combining semantic gradients with context clues, and give take-home homework.

"20 Vocabulary Lesson Ideas" (Univ. of Missouri)

On this handout, you'll find innovative games like "Anything Goes" (teacher asks rapid-fire questions about known vocabulary words) and "Brainpower Words" (students work to decipher unknown words in small groups) to help students have fun learning and practicing vocabulary. 

"5 Brain-Based Vocabulary Activities for the Secondary Classroom" (Reading and Writing Haven)

A veteran English teacher suggests a version of "3 Truths and a Lie," as well as interactive activities that use everything from posters to film to social media.

"Creative Lesson Plan: Vocabulary Poster" (Bright Hub Education)

This complete lesson plan details the supplies, preparation, and step-by-step execution of a vocabulary poster activity, including a follow-up game that allows students to learn from their peers' posters.

"Games to Reinforce Vocabulary Words" (Bright Hub Education)

Familiar household games like Charades, Pictionary, and Boggle can become tools for vocabulary acquisition and retention if you follow the simple guidelines in this blog post.

Homework Exercises for Vocabulary

"Vocabulary in Context Worksheets" (ThoughtCo)

The five free, downloadable worksheets on this page pair vocabulary-rich passages with SAT-style questions. They require students to deduce the meaning of unknown words in a setting similar to that on most standardized tests. 

"Context Clues Lessons" (Flocabulary)

On this page and through the clickable links, you'll find free, downloadable lessons and worksheets for more practice with context clues. The site even has videos with mnemonic songs that, though a little silly, will help you remember definitions. 

"SAT Vocabulary Lessons and Practice" (Instructor Web)

At the bottom of this page, you'll find links to ten free, downloadable PDF worksheets for practicing synonyms, antonyms, and analogies with SAT vocabulary words.

"Semantic Gradients Plus Contexts Worksheet" (ReadWriteThink)

This worksheet pairs with the "Solving Word Meanings" lesson plan above; it's a take-home exercise of the "semantic gradients" technique, which requires students to place words on a spectrum or to choose between them.

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Useful Academic Expressions & Phrases For Essay Writing

These useful academic expressions , words, vocabulary and phrases will help you to write a top-notch essay. Writing an essay can be a challenging task. However it becomes simpler if it is divided into manageable pieces. There are three main parts in an essay: an introduction, a body, and a conclusion. You can easily overcome your essay writing task with these academic phrases and vocabulary for essay writing.

Phrases to Finish an Introduction Paragraph

In this essay, I will look at some of the arguments for This essay will discuss different ways of … This essay outline some of the reasons why… Let us examine both views before reaching a concrete decision. The following essay takes a look at both sides of the argument.

Vocabulary for Opinion Essay 

In my opinion, I strongly agree with the idea that … I strongly disagree with the idea that … I strongly opine that… I strongly believe that… In my view… As far as I am concerned… It seems to me that… However, I strongly believe that… I oppose the view and my reasons will be explained in the following paragraphs. I will support this view with arguments in the following paragraphs. I personally believe that… Thus the advantages far outweigh the disadvantages…

Useful Expressions For Listing Your Ideas

First… First of all… Firstly… First and foremost… Initially… To begin with… To start with… In the first place…

On the one hand… Second(ly)… (do not use ‘Second of all’) Third(ly)… Then… Next… After that… And… Again… Also… Besides… Likewise… In addition… Consequently… What’s more… Furthermore… Moreover… Apart from that…

Finally… Last but not the least…

Check Also: Vocabulary for Starting Your Essay How to Write The Best Essay Ever!

Phrases to Show a Comparison in Your Essay

In the same way… Likewise… Similarly… Like the previous point… Similar to… Also… At the same time… Just as…

Useful Vocabulary and Phrases to Show Contrast

On the other hand… On the contrary… However… Nevertheless…/ Nonetheless… But… Nonetheless/ Nevertheless… Oppositely… Alternatively… Unlike… While… Whilst… Although… Though… Even though… Despite… / In spite of… In spite of the fact that… Alternatively… In contrast to this… Then again… On the other hand… Despite the fact that… Even so… Yet… Meanwhile…

Vocabulary For Expressing Condition

If… Provided that… Because of that… For this reason… Unless… Providing that… So that… In case… Whether…

Phrases for Expressing Certainty in Your Essay

Certainly… Definitely… No doubt… Of course… Doubtlessly… Without any doubt… Undoubtedly…

Vocabulary for Adding Further Information

In addition… And… Moreover… Similarly… Furthermore… Also… As well as… Besides… Even… Too… What’s more… Again… In a similar fashion… Likewise…

Expressions for Agreement & Disagreement in Your Essay

While writing your essay, as a writer you are required to show whether you agree & disagree or partially agree with a given statement or opinion.

Vocabulary for Expressing Agreement

I strongly agree… I completely agree that… I totally agree with the given idea that… I agree with the opinion that… I am quite inclined to the opinion that… I accept that… I accept the fact that… I am in agreement… I consent that…

Vocabulary for Expressing Disagreement

I disagree with the opinion that… I strongly disagree… I completely disagree with… I totally disagree with the given idea that… I disagree with the statement… I quite oppose the opinion that… I disapprove that… I totally do not accept the fact that… My own opinion contradicts… I disagree with the group of people… However, my opinion is different from…

Vocabulary for Expressing Partial Agreement

To some extent… In a way… I agree with the given statement to some extent… Up to a point, I agree… More or less… So to speak…

Essay Writing Expressions PDF

  Essay Expression PDF – (download)

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, expanding high-level vocabulary for essays.

I'm working on my college essays and I want to improve my vocab to make my writing stand out. Any suggestions on how to incorporate high-level vocabulary or resources to expand my lexicon?

Incorporating high-level vocabulary in your college essays is a great way to showcase your writing skills and stand out. Here are some suggestions on how to expand your lexicon and effectively use a sophisticated vocabulary in your essays:

1. Read widely: To expand your vocabulary, read a variety of materials including novels, newspapers, and even academic papers. This exposes you to new words and phrases that you can naturally incorporate into your own writing. Take note of unfamiliar words, look up their meanings, and try to use them in sentences for practice.

2. Use vocabulary-building tools: There are several resources available for vocabulary expansion, such as flashcard apps, websites like Vocabulary.com, and even classic books like "Word Power Made Easy" by Norman Lewis. These tools help you learn new words in a structured manner and provide exercises to reinforce your learning.

3. Keep a vocabulary journal: Whenever you encounter a new word, write it down in a journal along with its definition and an example sentence. Review your journal regularly to reinforce your learning and expose yourself to these words more frequently.

4. Revise selectively: Instead of trying to replace every simple word with a more complex one, focus on key phrases and descriptions where a higher-level word would add nuance or impact. Overstuffing your essay with complex vocabulary can make it difficult to read and may detract from your message. Aim for a balance of clarity and sophistication.

5. Use words in context: When incorporating new words into your essay, ensure their usage is contextually appropriate. Misusing a word can create confusion and cast doubt on your grasp of the language. It's always better to use a simpler word correctly than a complex one incorrectly.

6. Practice writing: Familiarize yourself with using high-level vocabulary by regularly writing essays, journal entries, or even fiction. Like any skill, the more you practice, the more natural it will become. Challenge yourself to incorporate new words in your writing to expand your active vocabulary.

7. Edit and revise: Once you have a draft of your essay, go through it to identify areas where you can improve your word choice. Use a thesaurus to find synonyms if needed, but remember that context matters – always double-check if the suggested synonyms fit the intended meaning.

Remember, while a high-level vocabulary can enhance your college essay, the most important aspects are still the quality of your storytelling and your ability to convey your thoughts and experiences effectively. Focusing on a clear, engaging narrative with well-structured sentences is the foundation upon which you can layer a sophisticated vocabulary. Good luck with your college essays!

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Academic writing is exact writing , and exact writing requires that you use the exact word. Consider the distinction between ‘mass’ and ‘weight’; between a ‘typeface’ and a ‘font’; or a ‘spider’ and an ‘insect’. However, academic writing is not only about technical words or jargon but many other words that help you to convey your thoughts. How do you learn those words? How do you expand your vocabulary? This article provides some practical ways to do so.

1. Read widely to assimilate the word

One of the most effective ways to learn new words is to read widely so that you are exposed to words used in many different fields. This is effective because you learn words in their context – you see them ‘in action’, being used in the ways they are meant to be used. When you have encountered a word half a dozen times, you soon get a pretty good idea of what it means and how it is used.

More importantly, by assimilating the word, you are making it part of your idiolect , which means a ‘person’s individual way of speaking or writing a language’.

2. Look up more than the meaning in a dictionary

When you do look up a word in a dictionary, don’t just look up the meaning but also find out how the word is derived , because it will help you not only to remember the word better but also to guess the meaning of other as yet unfamiliar words derived from the same source.

For instance, consider the suffix ‘-oid’. Once you know that it means ‘resembling’ or ‘like’, you can guess that a humanoid is something (perhaps a robot or an extra-terrestrial) that is like a human being but not quite one. As another example, learn how ‘e.g.’ and ‘i.e.’ are derived and used in this article .

3. But don’t look up every unfamiliar word

You should acquire new words as you go along and not hunt for them actively. Research shows that for such active learning, you should know about 95% of the words you encounter on a page. Reading is no longer enjoyable or even worthwhile if more than 10% of the words on the page are unfamiliar to you, and if you know more than 98%, you are unlikely to be expanding your vocabulary. 

4. Consider using graded readers

If English grammar and vocabulary are major obstacles for you, you should explore graded readers, which use deliberately controlled vocabulary and sentence constructions to ensure that the books are at the right level of difficulty for their target readers.

5. Supplement reading with listening

Audiobooks, podcasts and many online resources are a great help because when you encounter new words by hearing them, you also learn how they are pronounced . This can help you to remember them better because you are using yet another part of your brain that deals with language. 

Tip : If possible, read the transcript of the talk you are listening to – not while you are listening but either before or after. 

6. Practise using your new vocabulary as often as possible

Merely memorising lists of difficult or unusual words is unproductive, because you do not really assimilate those words. Instead, try to practise using them in everyday conversation . Or, if the words are too technical or specific to your discipline, and not suitable for casual conversation, practise incorporating those words or terms in your writing . 

7. Check your progress – with a concordance tool

Finally, check your progress to see whether you are using the new words you have assimilated over time. You can do this by using a concordance tool, a software utility that compiles a list of all the words that occur in a file. A few such tools are Calibre, AntConc and TextSTAT.

Pool all your writings over the past few months into a single file and run the utility. Select the option to sort the words in the document in ascending order of their frequency and to ignore words with three or fewer letters. This way, the less common words will be at the top, and you can see for yourself some evidence of your growing vocabulary.

In conclusion

Improving your vocabulary helps you use the right word , which conveys that you understand and are familiar with the correct and conventional language of a particular discipline. Think of it as a badge.

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50 Good Vocabulary Words to use in an IELTS Essay

Updated On Nov 16, 2023

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In this article, we will explore a compilation of 50 good vocabulary words to use in an IELTS essay, gaining insights into their meanings and examining illustrative sentences that showcase their usage.

Importance of Vocabulary in IELTS

Thousands of colleges, including the world’s top universities such as Oxford, Harvard, and Yale, accept IELTS scores for admission. The governments of English-speaking countries such as the USA, Australia, and the UK also accept IELTS for visa applications.

IELTS exam takers, however, frequently encounter substantial challenges. As the IELTS is designed to assess English language proficiency, one’s vocabulary proficiency, in particular, will exert a significant influence on all facets of the test. Consequently, the role of vocabulary assumes a paramount significance in the comprehensive preparation for the IELTS.

Tips for Improving IELTS Vocabulary

Effective communication requires an understanding of the complexities of the English language. Good vocabulary skills are thus crucial for professions requiring regular interaction with the public and customers, including management and leadership positions. Avoiding misconceptions and miscommunications can be accomplished by being aware of the minor variances between words.

Now, let’s take a look at some tips for learning new vocabulary and incorporating it into everyday language use.

• Repeat new words . This practice helps to stick those words in your memory.
• Make a pictorial representation of the words . You can remember the meaning of a word better when you draw it on paper.
• Utilise the new word in a sentence. Try to remember it an hour later. Just before you go to bed, go over it. Use it once more the next day.
• Use new words in phrases. When we learn words in short chunks, such as phrases made up of many words and common dialogues, we recall them better. By doing this, you can also guarantee that you are aware of how to employ this verb in at least one sentence.
• Challenge yourself with vocabulary quizzes. The brain is stimulated when it perceives a challenge. Playing games that teach you new words and meanings is a fun way to increase your vocabulary.
• Make use of flashcards. Flashcards are a popular study tool for memorising important information, such as new phrases or vocabulary from a second language.
• The best way to increase your vocabulary is by improving your spelling . For example, when writing an essay, you might memorise a writing template. By doing this, you’ll acquire new words while also improving the quality of your language.

List of Good Vocabulary Words for IELTS

Check this list for good vocabulary words to use in IELTS essays, given along with their meaning and an example sentence to illustrate how to use the word.

IELTS vocabulary level affects the overall band score of the candidate. If you wish to study in the top universities that require remarkably high scores, you must have a good vocabulary.

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

To learn more and get access to top-edge IELTS study materials, sign up to IELTSMaterial !

Also, check:

• Work Vocabulary IELTS
• Advanced Vocabulary for IELTS
• Check your Vocabulary for the IELTS Exam
• IELTS Vocabulary books
• Sports Vocabulary IELTS

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use these vocabulary words in both the Academic and General Training IELTS essays

Is it necessary to use all 50 words in a single essay

Are there any specific words that examiners prefer in IELTS essays

Can I use idiomatic expressions from my native language in my IELTS essay

Is it better to use complex vocabulary even if I'm not entirely sure about its meaning

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Five tips to improve your English vocabulary

Do you want to learn new words and phrases in English? Here are five tips to improve your English vocabulary.

Learning vocabulary is a big part of learning a language. The more English words you learn, the better you can communicate your needs, ideas, thoughts and feelings to other people in English. 

Vocabulary is essential for understanding too. In fact, learning new words is one of the biggest things you can do to improve your reading and listening.

So what can you do to build your English vocabulary quickly and effectively? Here are five tips for better vocabulary learning.

1. Write down new words

It's a really good idea to write down useful new vocabulary. The act of writing the words helps you remember them better. Plus, lots of people learn better when they see things written on paper, rather than just hearing them. 

You can add a translation in your language, a definition in English, a note on pronunciation or even a drawing! The more different links you make between the word and its meaning, the better.

2. Revise new vocabulary regularly

So, you've got an English notebook full of useful vocabulary to remember. But did you know that if you don't look again at the new words and phrases you've studied, you only remember on average 20–25 per cent of it? That's a shocking waste of time and effort! 

The good news is that if you look at your notes again after an hour, again the next day and once more after a few days, you can make sure that 100 per cent of what you learn goes into your long-term memory. 

So make five minutes each day to revise your English vocabulary. The more you look backwards, the faster you go forwards! 

3. Read in English

They say the best way to learn a language is by immersion – spending time completely surrounded by that language. 

Well, reading is like immersion through your imagination! 

Reading is amazing for your English in general. But it's particularly good for learning new vocabulary. That's because understanding a new word as part of a story makes it much more memorable than trying to learn a list of words out of context. 

4. Learn from context

Speaking of context, let's talk more about that. Literally, 'context' means the text that comes before and after a particular word. It also refers to the situation in which a word is used. 

Context is your friend when you're learning new vocabulary! It helps you guess the meaning of words you don't know, it shows you how a word is used in a sentence, and it helps you remember the word for longer. 

This means learning vocabulary by reading and listening is more effective than trying to study word lists. It also means that it's better to make a note of how a word is used in a sentence, rather than just the word on its own. For example, instead of 'to make up = to invent' , try learning, 'He'd totally made the story up!' . You've got useful information there – about the meaning, the types of things people 'make up' and the word order.

5. Use it or lose it!

Following the 'use it or lose it' principle, using words is the best way to make sure you don't forget them. So try using new vocabulary as soon as you can when you're speaking or writing in English. 

Have you noticed that you often need to use the same words and phrases when you're communicating in English? It's really worth the effort to practise the most common and the most useful words for you. 

Researchers have found that you need to see or hear a word on average ten times to remember it. But when you're actively making an effort with a word – for example, you ask the person you're talking to how to say something – you learn it much faster. 

So, get out there! Try to get as much exposure to English as you can. And take every opportunity to communicate in English with other people.

Which tips are most useful for improving your English vocabulary?

For me it is very helpful to write down the words and then use a dictionary to remember those words that are a little more complicated.

• Log in or register to post comments

I consider that ' Write down new words' and 'Revise new vocabulary regularly' are the most useful tips to learn new vocabulary. When I watch some reels from Instagram, there are people that provide vocabulary, so I write the new words in a notebook and then I revise them. For me is the best way to remember new words.

These tips have been very helpful to have a better performance in learning vocabulary, to have a more decent English more appropriate to communicate, and to better develop your personal ideas.  

Great information you have given us. I am an English student and it is very helpful information like this. Thank you very much!

This information is too useful to people who are trying to learn a new language, like me. TY!

Another tip can be practice in and out of learning environment. To think, to Dream, to Live English as our native language. To make us obligated to use the language.

The tip Write down new words is most useful for improving my remembering of vocabulary.I usually type the new words into a dictionary to look up the meanings,listen to both American and British pronunciation and take notice of the difference. If I revise, I’ll be stressed whether I can remember them or not, instead,I spend more time learning English,without revising.

Dose the learning from the context idea help me in using the new word I've learnt when I need it?

Hello fidaasiddig,

Since words are used in context (situational and linguistic) and not in isolation recognising how and when a word is used in terms of tone, collocation and so on can certainly help you to use it in a natural and appropriate way.

The LearnEnglish Team

Online courses

Group and one-to-one classes with expert teachers.

Learn English in your own time, at your own pace.

One-to-one sessions focused on a personal plan.

Get the score you need with private and group classes.  

• How to write a C1 Advanced Essay

• Posted on 26/02/2020
• Categories: Blog
• Tags: C1 Advanced , Cambridge Exams , Writing

The Cambridge C1 Advanced is an excellent qualification to aim for if you’re thinking of studying or working abroad. It’s recognised by universities and governments all over the world and also helps you prove your language skills to future employers.

One of the most demanding parts of the exam is Part 1 of the Writing paper, which includes writing an essay. For many of you, this won’t come naturally… especially in another language.

So, to give you the best chance at success, we’ve created this in-depth guide full of Cambridge C1 Advanced Writing tips and useful language to get you producing excellent essays in no time.

So, pick up your pen, and let’s get started!

If you’d like to get more help with the C1 Advanced, consider our exam preparation class!

C1 Advanced Writing Requirements

The C1 Advanced Writing exam has two writing parts, which you must complete in 90 minutes. Both parts have a word limit of between 220-260 words. We recommend getting lots of writing practice under these conditions!

Part 1 is always a discursive essay . It requires you to think about arguments for and against a topic.

Part 2 is a situationally based writing task. This could be a letter , an email , a report , a proposal or a review and you have three options to choose from.

Today, we’ll be looking at how to do your best in part 1.

Before you begin

When you turn over the paper and begin Writing Part 1, take some time to read the task instructions. Identify all parts of the question, underlining which parts are obligatory and noting which parts are optional.

Let’s take a look at an example question!

Remember, you don’t have to use the opinions expressed in the box, but they may help you to get the ball rolling . Also, you only have to talk about two of the options given, not all three.

Make a plan

Take ten minutes to lay out your ideas. Make a pros and cons list for each of the three options and then decide which two you feel most confident with. Here’s some things you might come up with, can you think of any more?

Structure your essay

The essence of a good essay is a clear structure.

Introduction

Here you want to introduce the topic in your own words. Your first line should also grab the reader’s attention, then you should paraphrase the question. Finally, try using a statistic or a rhetorical question. This will make them want to read on, right?

Paragraph 1

Discuss the first option you’ve chosen. Include a good topic sentence and remember to give reasons for your answer. Describe some of the advantages, and even some of the disadvantages too. This will give a well-balanced argument.

Paragraph 2

Here’s where you introduce the second option. Again, try to present both sides of the argument and give reasons for your ideas. Gradually work towards the conclusion.

State your final opinion. This should be a summary of the rest of the essay and point clearly to which option you think is the most important. Do not introduce any new arguments at this stage. The conclusion is where you tie-up any loose ends .

This is an advanced piece of writing, so make sure your choice of language reflects it. You will get marked for accuracy, however, occasional errors can still be present as long as they do not impede understanding. So don’t play it too safe . This is your opportunity to show what you can do, so take some risks and have fun with it!

In the writing paper you should use a range of vocabulary, including less common lexis. Brainstorm some vocabulary related to the topic. Take your time to think of nouns and compound nouns that you know at C1 level. Really let your vocabulary sparkle .

No one likes a broken record . Find synonyms for simple words. You want to use a variety of language, and try not to repeat yourself too much. Check out these different ways of saying the same thing:

advantage = benefit, positive, upside

disadvantage = downside, drawback

effect = influence, impact, result, outcome

problem = issue, challenge, difficulty, obstacle, setback, complication

important = valuable, essential, beneficial

expensive = costly, dear, high-priced, extortionate

cheap = inexpensive, affordable, economical

big = great, large, sizeable, considerable, wide, vast

small = slight, tiny, little

Quick tip: Visit Thesaurus.com to study more synonyms!

Experiment with different grammatical forms. At this level you’re expected to have a good grasp on the grammar. You should use a range of simple and complex grammatical forms with control and flexibility. So challenge yourself with some of these…

• Participle clauses
• Conditionals
• Modal verbs
• Passive with reporting verbs
• Cleft sentences
• Comparatives
• Relative clauses

Useful expressions

To make your essay flow it’s best to use some key phrases. These will link all your ideas together, and help it sound semi-formal. Take a look at the expressions below. Why not use some in your next essay?

Introduction:

It is often said that…

Many people feel that…

We live in an age when..

More and more…

Introducing & Addition:

Firstly, secondly, thirdly…

On the one hand…

In addition…

What is more…

For example…

For instance…

As a case in point…

Contrasting:

In contrast…

On the other hand…

Alternatively…

However…

Conclusion:

All things considered…

As far as I’m concerned…

In light of the above…

What the examiners are looking for

When writing your essay, bear in mind what you’ll be marked on:

Have you answered all parts of the question? Is everything relevant to the question?

Communicative Achievement

Is the style and tone appropriate? Remember it should be semi-formal and neutral.

Organisation

Does it follow a logical order? Have you used paragraphs and linking devices?

Are you using a variety of grammar and vocabulary? Is it accurate?

Now your masterpiece has come together. Remember to take time to check your work. Here’s the official Writing Checklist from Cambridge Assessment English . And our list of the most common mistakes:

• subject + verb agreement
• singulars / plurals
• question formation
• variety of tenses
• dependent prepositions

Some final tips

Avoid contractions (I’m, they’re, we’re) as this is a formal writing.

Don’t use first person pronouns (I, my, our, us).

Practise under timed conditions.

Use model answers to practise fixed expressions.

——

Looking for more help with your Cambridge C1 Advanced exam? Here are our other guides from our blog:

C1 Advanced Reading and Use of English – Part 1 , Part 2 , Part 3

And if you are not sure if you’re ready for the C1 Advanced, check out our article Am I ready for the C1 Advanced exam? to find out!

Glossary for Language Learners

Find the following words in the article and then write down any new ones you didn’t know.

Get the ball rolling (exp) : to start something.

Lay out (v): to explain something in detail.

Paraphrase (v): to say the same thing in a different way.

Tie-up any loose ends (exp): to resolve issues.

Play it safe (exp): to act cautiously.

A broken record (exp): when someone repeats themself.

Sparkle (v) : to shine.

Good grasp (exp): a good knowledge.

Bear in mind (exp) : to consider.

Masterpiece (n): an incredible work of art.

exp = expression

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Small Talk For Business English

• By: oxfordadmin
• Posted on 19/02/2020

Your Guide To Moving To The USA

• Posted on 04/03/2020

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Learning English with Oxford

The latest language learning tips, resources, and content from oxford university press., top tips for effective essay writing.

• by Oxford University Press ELT
• Posted on June 28, 2023 June 29, 2023

Tips for different essay types 

There are different types of essays that you may need to write during your English language journey. These include:

• Argumentative essays : These essays present the advantages and disadvantages of a particular topic or issue. They require you to provide well-reasoned arguments and evidence to support your point of view.
• Persuasive essays : The aim of persuasive essays is to convince the reader to eventually adopt your point of view or take a specific course of action. These essays rely on strong arguments, logical reasoning and persuasive language.
• Expository essays : Expository essays focus on explaining or clarifying a concept, idea or process. They require you to provide clear and concise information with supporting examples and evidence.
• Narrative essays : In narrative essays, you tell a story or narrate an event. These essays use descriptive language, and engage readers through vivid details and a compelling narrative structure.
• Descriptive essays : Descriptive essays aim to paint a clear picture of a person, place, object or experience. These essays utilise sensory language (e.g. colourful, crowded, dark, cold etc.) and figurative devices to evoke emotions and create a picture of the scene and people in the reader’s mind.

Tips for essay structure 

When writing an essay, you need to think about several key elements:

• Organisation and structure: Make sure your essay follows a clear and logical structure. Your essay should start with an introduction explaining what your essay is going to be about, followed by paragraphs containing the main points you want to express. Each of the paragraphs in the main body should address a single main idea. Finally, you should end with a conclusion.
• Paragraphing: Divide your essay into paragraphs to make it easy for the reader to follow and to make it coherent. Start each paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of that particular section.
• Main ideas with supporting arguments and evidence : In the main body of your essay, clearly state your main ideas and support them with relevant arguments, examples, facts, or statistics. Use these supporting details to strengthen your overall argument.

More essay writing tips

Essays typically maintain a formal register, so it is important to use appropriate language. Here are some examples:

• Formal language: In an essay, try to avoid using contractions, e.g. They are instead of they’re. Try to avoid using the personal pronouns I or we – instead, you could use a passive structure. Do not use colloquial expressions or idioms, and try to use more formal words for everyday language, e.g. show – demonstrate, find out – discover, give – provide, point out – indicate.
• Linking words: Use cohesive devices and words and phrases to connect your sentences to improve the flow and coherence of your essay. For instance, use words like however, in addition, furthermore or on the other hand to connect ideas. You can also create smooth transitions from one idea to the next by using sequencing language such as firstly, next, following this etc.

Final tips for essay writing

To produce a well-structured and coherent essay, think about the following:

• Make a plan: Before you start writing, create a plan outlining the main points you want to include. Refer to your plan regularly to stay focused and maintain a logical flow.
• Use varied language : Use a variety of vocabulary, sentence structures, and sentence lengths to make your essay more engaging and interesting.
• Proofread and edit: After completing your essay, carefully review it for grammar, punctuation, and spelling errors. This is particularly important in an English exam.

Knowing how to write an essay in English is an important skill. Understanding the different types of essays, organising your ideas effectively, using appropriate language and linking words, and following a plan can significantly improve your essay writing skills. By incorporating these tips into your writing routine, you will feel more confident the next time you write an essay in English. 

For more information about different types of writing in the Oxford Test of English, read this blog and download our detailed guide !

Decide whether the statements about essay writing are true (T) or false (F). 

• In an English exam, you usually do not have time to proofread your essay. T/F
• Your essay should always start with an introduction and end with a conclusion. T/F
• Persuasive essays ask you to present both points of view with evidence to support. T/F
• You should make a plan before you start your essay, then not refer to it again until you finish writing. T/F
• You should use language to help you sequence your ideas where necessary. T/F
• You could start your essay with, In my opinion… T/F
• False. In an English exam, you should always leave some time to proofread your essay when you finish to check for any errors and correct them. 
• True. The middle part of your essay is the main body that contains your main arguments and key points. 
• False. Persuasive essays require you to convince the reader to eventually adopt your point of view or take a specific course of action. Argumentative essays require you to present the advantages and disadvantages of a particular topic or issue. 
• False. Refer to your plan regularly whilst writing so you can stay focused and maintain a logical flow. 
• True. Use sequencing words and phrases to help you structure your essay and improve its flow. 
• False. Try to avoid using personal pronouns. 

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Author: Oxford University Press ELT

Every year we help millions of people around the world to learn English. As a department of the University of Oxford, we further the University’s objective of excellence in education by publishing proven and tested language learning books, eBooks, learning materials, and educational technologies. View all posts by Oxford University Press ELT

Thank you for sharing valuable resources with us. It is inspiring and motivating. I really find everything, especially the webinars, extremely useful.

VERY USEFUL!!! THANX! NEXT TIME MORE PRACTICAL EXERCISES, EVEN IN A BOOK…

Thank you for very valuable tips. Will definitely use them with my students who are preparing for FCE exams.

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How to practice & improve CAE vocabulary (Tips & List PDF) | C1 Advanced

Having a good knowledge of diverse English vocabulary is very important for doing well in the C1 Advanced  exam. Therefore,  more of your time should be spent on improving your vocabulary.

In the exam, you will find exercises on commonly known topics, however, the CAE vocabulary will be more advanced (less general, more specialized or scientific) than it was in the FCE exam.

In addition to common topics, you will also find exercises on topics which are not typical (e.g. “development of artificial intelligence, restoration of the bear species, the beauty of painting” ). This means you need to read and improve your English vocabulary on a wide variety of topics .

C1 Advanced (CAE): Vocabulary Tips

Tip 1: read, read and read again.

Reading is an extremely important part of solidly building and improving your CAE vocabulary. Not only will you learn new words by reading, but your mind will also be constantly working, trying to identify the meaning of words based on context .

Therefore, read as much as you can and use various sources of information.Reading newspapers, magazines, academic texts, blogs in English and other print material will introduce you to new words.

What if you don’t like reading?

Don’t worry, you can always listen to audiobooks and podcasts on different subjects.

There are many places with interesting videos where professionals present materials on many different topics, for example:

• BBC Podcasts

If you don’t understand everything, use the transcript and a dictionary .

Test your CAE vocabulary! - C1 Advanced

Tip 2: learn roots.

What are roots of words?

By finding the origin of a word and its original meaning, it is much easier to remember them in the long run, and also to quickly understand new ones . Once you learn a root, you’ll begin to understand more words that use the same root.

Rest assured that this is actually one of the most effective ways that you learn .

Tip 3: Research the meanings of words

In the English-English dictionary , you will usually find examples of sentences showing how to use the word in everyday situations. Giving context will help you remember the word better.

Dictionaries also provide the origin of words , the so-called “root” . This information will help you help you understand the meaning of other words with the same root.

Meanwhile, the thesaurus is a great tool that allows you to see how you can replace a word you know with other words that have the same meaning. This can be especially useful when writing your CAE essay. You will avoid repetitions that may lower your score.

 Thanks to technology, we can always have access to a dictionary or thesaurus. Download the online versions to your computer or phone and use them when you have doubts about the meaning of a word.

Tip 4: Create associations

• Associations can help you remember specific words and phrases. For example, the word “gargantuan” means very big. Try to create a sequence with this word, such as tiny, small, medium, large, giant and gargantuan. Making associations can help you remember the words you learn more easily.
• It is also worth grouping words with similar sounds and memorising several words at once. You can try to group words together by topic, common core, meaning, or origin . For example, the adjectives underpaid , full-time , and stressful can be grouped together because they are all work-related.

Tip 5: Play word games

If learning English is just a burden for you, it will be boring and you will not achieve good results. Therefore, it is important to stay motivated and enjoy learning a new language. Find ways to add fun to your studies. For example, you can play word games with friends to improve your vocabulary and have fun.

There are many board games that are a great supplement to learning, but the most popular of them is Scrabble . To learn even more words, you can play with the English-English dictionary.

If you don’t like board games, you can always choose online games , countless of which can be found on the Internet.

Tip 6: Choose a variety of materials

Additionally, each author has his own individual writing style and builds sentences in a specific way, so you will be able to see different patterns.

Below are some websites and resources for reading materials you can use:

• Advanced C1 reading
• Hancock McDonald
• National Geographic

Tip 7: Focus on specific CAE vocabulary topics

As already mentioned, it is quite difficult to predict what topics will be used in the C1 Advanced (CAE) exam. To do well in the CAE exam, you need to learn English vocabulary on various topics .

However, there is a certain group of topics that you can expect on the exam…

We suggest focusing especially on the topics listed below :

Tip 8: Skip irrelevant topics

There is a certain group of topics you won’t find used in the exam and you don’t have to learn the vocabulary for:

The CAE exam must be universal because it is taken by both children and adults in different countries, so controversial topics are avoided.

Tip 9: I mprove general vocabulary

In addition to expanding your knowledge of specific topics, you should also improve your general vocabulary , one that is not limited to one specific type of topic but can be used in almost any type of topic:

Tip 10: Use Flashcards

On one side of the flashcard, write a new word; on the other, write the definition in English or draw a picture associated with this word.

Remember to make your flashcards legible and understandable. It may be helpful to write them in a bold colour. Flashcards are an easy and effective way to memorize new English vocabulary.

Review your flashcards as often as possible: on the bus, during a break at work or at university, during a meal, etc. Thanks to this, you will easily acquire a large amount of vocabulary.

Tip 11: Keep a journal of new CAE vocabulary

Every time you hear or see a word you’re not familiar with, note it down . Such a list will consolidate the newly learned words and encourage you to expand the list.

Always try to have a pen and notebook with you. Unless you prefer, keep a journal on your phone or computer .  This will allow you to review or add new information whenever you learn a new word. But in fact, no matter what you choose, what matters is that you are systematic in keeping a journal.

Don’t only focus on the word itself , but you should also try to search for synonyms and phrases in which it’s used. When you write down new words, try to create a sentence for each of them. You will remember words better if you learn them in the right context.

C1 Advanced (CAE): Vocabulary List

Below you will find a sample vocabulary list divided into individual topics at the C1 level for the CAE exam.

You can also download a PDF at the very bottom of the article.

Test your CAE vocabulary! | C1 Advanced

C1 advanced (cae): vocabulary list – download pdf.

Download PDF

Would you pass C1 Advanced (CAE)?