Vocabulary Preparation for IELTS 2024: Word Lists, Idioms & More

Are you preparing for the IELTS exam? If yes, we know that it can be challenging, especially when it comes to expanding your English vocabulary words for IELTS test. Being able to read, write, speak, and listen to the English language efficiently is as essential as having a robust vocabulary.

One effective way to enhance your vocabulary is to master synonyms and antonyms. This will also help you improve your communication skills and grasp linguistic nuances. Thus, if you are keen to prepare for the exam, read this blog to understand vocabulary words for IELTS better and get a high band score.

Why is Vocabulary Important for IELTS Exam Preparation?

Acquiring a strong vocabulary and a thorough understanding of synonyms and antonyms is essential for demonstrating adaptability on the IELTS exam. To delve deeper into the significance of English vocabulary words in IELTS exam preparation, explore the compelling reasons below.

IELTS Vocabulary Preparation 2024 - Important Synonyms and Antonyms for IELTS

Enhanced Communication: Synonyms and antonyms help you communicate your ideas precisely and clearly. They allow you to avoid repetition while making your language more varied and engaging.
Improved Comprehension: Understanding vocabulary aids in deciphering unfamiliar words found in reading passages or listening exercises. It lets you grasp the context more effectively, improving comprehension.
Improved Writing and Speaking Skills: Using synonyms and antonyms in writing and speaking tasks demonstrates linguistic proficiency and sophistication. It indicates to examiners that you have diverse vocabulary words for IELTS and can effectively express yourself.

Topic-wise English Vocabulary words for IELTS

Having a diverse vocabulary is essential for effectively discussing a wide range of topics, as is scoring well on the IELTS exam. Inadequate use of appropriate words can significantly reduce one's overall score.

To address this, check out the list below for the most recent and common topics covered in the IELTS exam. For easier comprehension, vocabulary words for IELTS are organised by topic and accompanied by their meaning and usage.

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Business
Culture
Environment
Fashion
Personality
Health
Education
Travel
Food

Also, Read: IELTS Eligibility

Phrasal Verb as English Vocabulary Words for IELTS

The phrasal verb for IELTS vocabulary consists of two or three words from several grammatical groupings. When all of them are integrated, a new meaning is applied based on the circumstances.

Furthermore, phrasal verbs are in the IELTS vocabulary list, and you may use them to demonstrate your mastery of the English language. Before that, try comprehending the phrasal verb's meaning since incorrect usage might lower your band score. Below is an English words list of phrasal verbs you can use:

Phrasal Verb	Meaning	Example
Brush up on	Improving knowledge or skills in a particular area.	I need to brush up on my Spanish before the trip to Mexico.
Cash in on	Taking advantage of a situation for personal gain.	The company plans to cash in on the growing trend of eco-friendly products.
Draw up	Prepare or create a plan, document, or list.	The lawyer will draw up the contract for the business deal.
Knock off	Finish work, especially earlier than expected.	Let's knock off early today and go for a drink.
Phase out	Gradually discontinue or withdraw something.	The company will phase out its older models of smartphones.
Run into	Encounter someone unexpectedly.	I ran into my old school friend at the supermarket yesterday.
Settle down	Establish a stable lifestyle, often by getting married or buying a house.	After years of travelling, she decided it was time to settle down and start a family.
Tear up	Destroy or rip something into small pieces.	She tore up the letter in frustration after reading it.
Work out	Solve a problem; be successful.	Hopefully, we can work out a compromise that satisfies everyone.
Back down	Withdraw or concede in a dispute or argument.	After hours of negotiation, neither side was willing to back down.
Carry out	Perform, or complete a task or action.	The researchers will carry out experiments to test their hypothesis.
Hear out	Listen to someone until they have finished speaking, especially to hear their side of the story.	Before making a decision, it's important to hear out both parties involved.

Idioms for IELTS Vocabulary

A myriad of international students find the IELTS speaking section challenging, so you can do it by using idioms and perform much better to show your vocabulary, pronunciation, and fluency in this area. Idioms here will help you convey your ideas more effectively and naturally. To avoid losing scores, using idioms only to comprehend their meaning would be beneficial. Hence, you must only use idioms where you are comfortable with their meaning and context.

Take a look at the common idioms below to enhance your vocabulary words for IELTS speaking section. Remember that using your vocabulary words correctly will result in a high band score.

Bite the bullet: To face a difficult situation with courage.
Break the ice: To initiate conversation or relieve tension in a social setting.
Cost an arm and a leg: To be very expensive.
Hit the nail on the head: To accurately identify or describe a situation.
Jump on the bandwagon: To join or support a popular trend or activity.
Keep one's chin up: To remain optimistic in challenging situations.
Let the cat out of the bag: To reveal a secret or confidential information.
Spill the beans: To disclose secret information.
Take the bull by the horns: To confront a difficult situation directly and courageously.
Under the weather: To feel unwell or sick.
Break the news: To inform someone about something significant.
Cut to the chase: To get to the main point without wasting time.
Fit as a fiddle: To be in excellent health or physical condition.
Hit the hay: To go to bed or go to sleep.
Kick the bucket: To die.
On the same page: To be in agreement or understanding with someone.
Raining cats and dogs: To rain heavily.
Spick and span: Neat, clean, and tidy.
The ball is in your court: It is your turn to make a decision or take action.
Throw in the towel: To give up or surrender.
Under the same roof: To live together in the same house or location.
Up in the air: Uncertain or undecided.
Burn the midnight oil: To work late into the night.
Don't cry over spilled milk: Don't dwell on past mistakes or regrets.
Fish out of water: To feel uncomfortable or out of place in a particular situation.

Also, Read: IELTS Registration

Collocations for English Vocabulary Words for IELTS

Collocations are the organic combinations of words in English sentences that make them sound natural and have clear meanings. Learning them enhances language accuracy and fluency, which is essential for fluent communication.

Verb & noun
Verb & adverb
Adverb & adjective
Adjective & noun
Noun & noun

For a better understanding, here are some examples listed below:

Catch someone's attention: The colourful advertisement caught my attention.
Face a challenge: We need to face the challenge head-on.
Strike a balance: It's important to balance work and personal life.
Raise awareness: The campaign aims to raise awareness about climate change.
Make a decision: I need to decide which university to attend.
Draw a conclusion: After analysing the data, we can draw a conclusion.
Take responsibility: It's time for him to take responsibility for his actions.
Express gratitude: She wrote a thank-you note to express her gratitude.
Voice an opinion: Everyone has the right to voice their opinion.
Build a relationship: Networking events are a great way to build relationships.

Also, Read: IELTS Exam Date 2024 in India

A List of Vocabulary Words for IELTS

Here is the comprehensive list of English vocabulary words for the IELTS exam:

Vocabulary Words for IELTS List 1

Word	Meaning
Abundant	Ample
Accurate	Correct
Aggressive	Militant
Arrogant	Haughty
Away	Absent
Awful	Terrible
Bendy	Flexible
Blameless	Innocent
Chiefly	Mainly
Connect	Join
Cozy	Comfortable
Crazy	Insane
Crusade	Campaign
Cube	Dice
Dally	Loiter
Deceptive	Misleading
Defective	Faulty
Denim	Jeans
Dicey	Risky
Disadvantaged	Deprived
Dormant	Inactive
Doubt	Mistrust
Drab	Dull
Dreadful	Terrible
Eager	Keen
Ecstasy	Joy
Empty	Drain
Extra	Additional
Fortunate	Lucky
Garbage Can	Trashcan
Gratuity	Tip
Hashish	Cannabis
Hearsay	Rumour
Highbrow	Intellectual
Idle	Lazy
Immediate	Instant
Immoderate	Excessive
Impartial	Neutral
Impartial	Neutral
Indisputable	Undeniable
Interplay	Interaction
Isolated	Lonely
Jealous	Envious
Lacking	Missing
Leading	Main
Madness	Insanity
Magistrate	Justice Of The Peace
Mannequin	Model
Mendacity	Lying
Mind	Intellect
Mischievous	Impish
Misery	Distress
Misfortune	Mishap
Misread	Misinterpret
Missing	Lost
Neutral	Impartial
Noon	Midday
Noted	Famous
Oblique	Indirect
Perception	Insight
Remoted	Isolated
Sacristy	Vestry
Superb	Magnificent
Terror	Fright
To Accomplish	To Achieve
To Behave	To Act
To Close	To Shut
To Desert	To Abandon
To Disclaim	To Deny
To Disclose	To Reveal
To Establish	To Set Up
To Misconceive	To Misunderstand
To Notify	To Inform
To Vary	To Differ
Touchdown	Landing
Turbulent	Blustering
Understandable	Comprehensible
Vague	Indistinct
Vague	Indistinct
Vicious	Ferocious
Warranty	Guarantee
Well Timed	Timely
Wise	Knowing
Wrong	Mistaken

Vocabulary List for IELTS 2

Word	Meaning
To Administer	To Manage
Murderer	Assassin
To Maintain	To Preserve
Mediocre	Fair
Aromatic	Fragrant
Dispute	Debate
Ambitious	Aspiring
To Foretell	To Predict
To Ignore	To Disregard
Virtue	Advantage
To Cope	To Manage
Appreciable	Considerable
Disagreeable	Unpleasant
Rubbish	Nonsense
To Bear On Sth.	To Affect
Lousy	Awful
To Consult	To Refer To
Cranky	Cross
Mackintosh	Waterproof Coat
Pocket Book	Notebook
Middleman	Intermediary
Paper Money	Notes
Infamous	Notorious
Mirth	Fun
Selection	Choice
To Quake	To Tremble
Today	Nowadays
Hate	Loathe
Mean	Unkind
Contaminate	Defile
Impediment	Obstacle
Construction	Interpretation
Hostile	Antagonistic
To Function	To Operate
Apparent	Obvious
Comfort	Consolation
Unstated	Unspoken
Enormous	Huge, Immense
Sincere	Honest
Imperfect	Faulty
Obsolete	Out Of Date
Above	Overhead
Total	Entire,
Twosome	Pair
Especially	Particularly
Monotonous	Boring
To Hurry	To Rush
Ardor	Passion
Gut	Intestine
Identical	Duplicate
Immodest	Conceited
Untrue	Unfaithful
Achieve	Accomplish
To Annoy	To Irritate, To Bother
Awkward	Clumsy
Completely	Totally
To Elevate	To Raise, To Promote
Insolvent	Bankrupt
To Rue	To Regret
Essential	Fundamental
Peaceable	Peaceful
Nightfall	Dusk
Handsome	Good
Stupid	Dense
Zenith	Peak
Vacant	Empty
Fragrance	Perfume
Maybe	Perhaps, Possibly
Aid	Help, Assist
Bad (Not Good)	Poor, Naughty
Magician	Conjurer
Unfortunate	Unlucky
Gravestone	Headstone
Housebreaking	Burglary
To Grab	To Seize
Refrain	Chorus
To Disappear	To Vanish
Painting	Portray
Adjourn	Postpone
Instructions	Directions
Momentous	Powerful
Priority	Precedence
Stationary	Fixed
Praise	Compliment
Insufferable	Unbearable
Previous	Preceding
Exactly	Precisely
Mistrust	Distrust
Early	Premature
Untimely	Premature
Antagonize	Provoke
Citation	Quotation
Naughty	Disobedient
Cheesy	Corny, Tacky
Huge	Vast
Hole	Gap
Magnify	Expand
Lethal	Deadly
Immune	Exempt
Mourn	Grieve
Ban	Forbid
Infrequent	Rare
Spontaneous	Automatic
To Cite	To Quote
Uncooked	Raw
Arrive	Reach, Come
Dark	Dismal
Unlawful	Illegal
Knowingly	Deliberately
Moderately	Reasonably
Insurgent	Rebel
Uprising	Rebellion
Clerk	Receptionist
Miserable	Depressing
Curative	Healing
Equity	Fairness
Immature	Inexperienced
Artful	Crafty
Practically	Virtually
Conscious	Aware
To Arrive	To Reach
Apparent	Evident
Crook	Criminal
Unvoiced	Voiceless

Vocabulary Words For Ielts List 3

Word	Meaning
A Native	A Local
Abbreviate	Condense
Abstract	Summary
Advocate	Support
Animated	Lively
Anyway	Besides
Applicable	Relevant
Attractive	Appealing
Backside	Behind, Bottom
Beneficent	Generous
Brow	Forehead
Charter	Constitution
Chorus	Refrain
Class	Lesson, Course
Coiffure	Hairstyle
Complete	Total
Conflict	Clash
Consecutive	Successive
Considerate	Thoughtful
Considerate	Thoughtful
Constancy	Fidelity
Convalesce	Recover
Correct	Right
Dead	Lifeless
Difficult	Hard
Dilute	Weaken, Thin
Diminish	Curtail
Disagree	Differ
Discount	Reduction
Diverse	Distinct
Domesticate	Cultivate
Dossier	File
Dry	Arid
Eccentric	Unusual
Encourage	Support
Except	Apart From
Forehead	Brow
Hermetic	Airtight
High	Elevated
Hold	Grasp
Home	Domestic
Idler	Loafer
If	Whether
Illiberal	Intolerant
Imperative	Crucial
Impetuous	Reckless
Inconsiderate	Thoughtless
Inferior	Substandard
Informal	Casual
Infuriate	Enrage
Instinct	Intuition
Insupportable	Intolerable
Intriguing	Fascinating
Invoice	Bill
Joy	Delight
Lucid	Clear
Mandatory	Required
Matters	Things
Meeting	Assembly
Mend	Repair
Migrant	Drifting
Minor	Lesser
Moderate	Lenient
Moral	Ethical
More And More	Increasingly
Morose	Sullen
Nameless	Anonymous
Necessary	Essential
Negligent	Inattentive
Nobility	The Aristocracy
Notwithstanding	However
Nugatory	Worthless
Object	Thing
Ornament	Decoration
Outside	External
Overseas	Abroad
Precis	Summary
Prompt	Immediate
Prosperous	Affluent
Provided	If
Reasonable	Fair
Remainder	The Rest
Remorse	Regret
Removable	Detachable
Repute	Reputation
Revolting	Disgusting
Satisfied	Convinced
Silly	Foolish
Steady	Regular
Sundown	Sunset
Suppress	Restrain
Testament	Testimony
To Admit	To Confess
To Answer	To Reply
To Appear	To Seem
To Assure	To Guarantee
To Begin	To Start
To Chop	To Cut
To Collect	To Gather
To Conform	To Comply
To Confuse	To Mix Up
To Convey	To Communicate
To Deduce	To Infer
To Denationalize	To Privatize
To Deprave	To Corrupt
To Differentiate	To Distinguish
To Diminish	To Decrease
To Fabricate	To Manufacture
To Float	To Drift
To Grouse	To Grumble
To Impact	To Affect
To Infect	To Contaminate
To Inspect	To Examine
To Intensify	To Heighten
To Involve	To Entail
To Learn	To Memorize
To Magnify	To Exaggerate
To Minimize	To Play Down
To Near	To Approach
To Nominate	To Appoint
To Operate	To Function
To Overhaul	To Overtake
To Receive	To Get
To Renounce	To Give Up
To Respond	To Reply
To Survive	To Outlive
To Transform	To Convert
To Vacuum	To Hoover
To Vanquish	To Conquer
To Visualize	To Imagine
To Withstand	To Resist
Torpid	Lethargic
Trustworthy	Reliable
Turmoil	Disturbance
Twister	Tornado
Unhurt	Unharmed
Urgent	Important
Vain	Useless
Vast	Huge
Win	Succeed

English Vocabulary Words for IELTS Speaking List

Learning vocabulary is highly crucial for attaining top band score in IELTS speaking section. Now, whenever the examiner looks at how you are speaking, it’s not just about grammar and pronunciation but also about effectively communicating your ideas and opinions.

Achieving a band score of 9 is a common goal for international students, including Indian students. Below is a list of vocabulary words for IELTS that are valuable resources for enhancing your English speaking skills.

For example
Though
Another reason
Although
These days
Despite
At the moment
Nowadays
Years ago
When I was younger
I reckon
It was caused
For instance
In the past
Meanwhile
Nevertheless
On the other hand
On the contrary
Alternatively
Even though
However
Unlike

Also, Read: IELTS Exam Centres across India

Reading and Writing: English Vocabulary Words for IELTS

When it comes to the reading and writing sections, many candidates lose marks because they do not use synonyms. Here is a list of frequently used words and their synonyms to help you improve your vocabulary for these sections of the IELTS exam.

Words	Synonyms
Amazing	Incredible
Answer	Respond
Awful	Bad
Beautiful	Pretty
Begin	Start
Come	Arrive
Cool	Frosty
Dangerous	Risky
Decide	Settle
Definite	Certain
Delicious	Savoury
Famous	Well-known
Funny	Amusing
Happy	Content
Help	Assist
Important	Vital, crucial
Interesting	Intriguing
Neat	Clean
New	Recent, current
Place	Procedure
Show	Display, Exhibit
Tell	Narrate, Inform
Wrong	Mistaken

English Vocabulary Words for IELTS Listening

Practice spelling words that you often misspell to enhance your vocabulary words for IELTS listening section. You can increase spelling accuracy by saying the words out loud, writing them down, checking them, and then repeating the process. Try spelling the words given in the table to see how well you can spell them. Spelling well is essential to doing well on the IELTS Listening test.

Consciousness	Disappear	Exciting
Necessary	Original	Realistic
Obesity	Marriage	Solar
Beautiful	Highway	Percentage
Fluctuate	Peak	Recover
Video	Murder	Topic
Argument	Wednesday	Neighbour
Boring	Rhythm	Immediately
Receive	February	Tendency
Fuel	Friendly	Until
Million	Thousand	Hundred
Musician	Computer	Software
Temporary	Unfortunately	Disadvantage
Foreign	Opportunity	Because

Tips to prepare for Vocabulary Words for IELTS

Now that you have a complete understanding of IELTS vocabulary, you should delve deeper into how can you improve your English vocabulary words. Here are some effective tips for preparing vocabulary for the IELTS exam:

Read, Listen, and Converse in English: Engage with English language materials such as newspapers, articles, and podcasts. Note down unfamiliar words and learn their meanings.
Practice Regularly: Dedicate time to practise each exam section - reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Consistent practice improves vocabulary retention and usage.
Utilise YouTube: Use online resources like YouTube to improve pronunciation and learn academic vocabulary. Watch English shows and educational videos to expand your vocabulary.
Avoid Rote Memorisation: Instead of memorising word lists, focus on understanding words in context. Learn how words are used in sentences and how their meanings can change based on context.
Use Diverse Learning Materials: Besides vocabulary lists, incorporate audio and video materials into your study routine. This exposes you to different accents, speech patterns, and contexts.
Follow the Syllabus: Familiarise yourself with the IELTS exam format and syllabus. Tailor your vocabulary practice to align with the specific requirements of the exam.

However, you can successfully prepare for the vocabulary challenges of the IELTS exam and enhance your performance by heeding this advice and incorporating vocabulary practice into your daily routine.

Also, Read: IELTS Cut-Off

Conclusion

To conclude, mastering IELTS vocabulary is critical to achieving a high band score. Effective preparation strategies, such as reading, practising regularly, and using different learning materials can be extremely helpful in improving vocabulary retention and usage, resulting in improved performance across all exam sections.

We hope you enjoyed reading the blog. If you plan to study abroad, contact our expert counsellors at any Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC) branch. You can also take free online counselling through our website. Our expert education counsellors will provide the best guidance and support for the admission and visa process. For more information or any queries, mail us at application02@meridean.org or call us at our toll-free no. 1800-1230-00011.

FAQs

1. How can I effectively expand my vocabulary for the IELTS exam?

You can increase your vocabulary by reading extensively, taking notes on unfamiliar words, and learning their meanings and context. Practice regularly and focus on using a variety of learning resources such as newspapers, articles, podcasts, and videos.

2. Is it essential to memorise vocabulary word lists?

No, it's more effective to understand words in context rather than memorising lists. Focus on how words are used in sentences and how their meanings can vary based on context rather than rote memorisation.

3. What are some tips for improving pronunciation?

Use resources such as YouTube to listen to native speakers and practice correct word pronunciation. Pay attention to stress, intonation, and rhythm. Regular practice and imitation can help improve your pronunciation skills.

4. How can I learn academic vocabulary for the IELTS exam?

Engage with academic resources such as research papers, scholarly articles, and podcasts. Take down unfamiliar academic terms and learn their meanings. Practice using them in writing and speaking assignments.

5. Are there any shortcuts to building vocabulary quickly?

While there are no shortcuts, regular practice and exposure to the language are essential. Make vocabulary learning a daily habit, and actively engage with English materials in various formats to accelerate your progress.

6. Should I focus more on synonyms or antonyms for the IELTS exam?

Both synonyms and antonyms are useful for demonstrating vocabulary proficiency. Concentrate on understanding the nuances of words and their relationships to other words, whether they are similar (synonyms) or opposed (antonyms).

7. How can I assess my vocabulary progress?

Keep a vocabulary journal to record new words you've learned and review them regularly. Quizzes, flashcards, and practice exercises can help you retain information. In addition, track your performance on mock tests to see where you can improve.

8. What should I do if I encounter unfamiliar words during the exam?

Don't panic, try to infer the meaning of unfamiliar words from the context of the passage or conversation. If you need more clarification, skip the word and return to it later if time allows. Concentrate on understanding the overall message or central idea.

9. Is it beneficial to learn vocabulary specific to certain topics?

Yes, learning vocabulary from common IELTS topics like education, the environment, technology, and health can be beneficial. Familiarising yourself with topic-specific vocabulary can help you discuss these topics fluently during the exam.

10. How can I make vocabulary learning more engaging and enjoyable?

You must include enjoyable and interactive learning activities such as word games, puzzles, and quizzes. Join study groups or language exchange programs to practice vocabulary with your peers. Reward yourself when achieving small milestones to remain motivated and engaged in the learning process.