Vocabulary
15 Essential Words for IELTS Essays
These words and phrases will help you write higher-scoring Task 2 essays. Learn what each one means and how to use it correctly.
How to use this list: For each word, read the meaning, then study the example sentences. Try writing your own sentence before moving on.
01
introduction
introduction
Nowadays
Similar to: in recent times, today, currently
Nowadays, many young people are choosing to study abroad.
Nowadays, an increasing number of physical stores are being replaced by e-commerce websites.
02
opinion
opinion
I would argue that
Similar to: in my opinion, I believe that
Some people believe… However, I would argue that the benefits are greater.
In conclusion, I would argue that the increase in online shopping is a positive development.
03
contrast
contrast
In spite of
Similar to: although, even though, despite
In spite of higher tuition fees, many young people still choose to study abroad. (+ noun)
In spite of being more expensive, many still choose to study abroad. (+ gerund)
In spite of the fact that it is more expensive, many still choose to study abroad. (+ clause)
04
example
example
For instance
Similar to: for example, such as
There are many reasons to study abroad. For instance, students can develop independence and language skills.
05
cause / reason
cause / reason
Due to
Similar to: because of, as a result of
Due to COVID restrictions, many people were forced to work from home.
06
contrast
contrast
By contrast
Similar to: however, on the other hand
In England, students pay around £9,000 per year for university. By contrast, Scottish students are fully subsidised by the government.
07
result
result
As a result of
Similar to: therefore, consequently, because of
As a result of increased tuition fees, fewer young people are able to afford university education.
Fewer young people can afford university education as a result of the increased fees.
08
emphasis
emphasis
Ensure
Similar to: make sure, guarantee
Young people should ensure that their language abilities are sufficient before going abroad to study.
Parents like to ensure that their children are properly fed and safe.
09
result
result
Enable
Similar to: allow, make it possible for
Getting a scholarship can enable young people from poorer backgrounds to study abroad.
10
result
result
Hence
Similar to: therefore, as a result, consequently
Tuition fees have more than trebled in the last few years. Hence, many young people are considering going straight to work after high school.
11
emphasis
emphasis
Lack
Means: not have enough of something
Many young people lack the funds needed to afford expensive undergraduate courses.
12
emphasis
emphasis
Invaluable
Means: extremely valuable, priceless
The education that students gain at university is invaluable for their personal and professional development.
13
emphasis
emphasis
Paramount
Means: extremely important, of the highest priority
Education is paramount to a successful career.
It is of paramount importance that the government ensure all citizens have access to education.
14
emphasis
emphasis
Significant
Means: large, notable, considerable
A significant proportion of the population cannot afford university fees without government support.
There has been a significant effort to reduce carbon emissions in recent years.
15
condition
condition
If
Used in: conditional structures (if… then…)
If the government provides scholarships and financial aid, more young people will be able to attend university.
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