Upgrade the words that hold your band down.

The single most overused word in IELTS. On its own it tells the examiner almost nothing.

Collocationsa beneficial effect on · an effective response to · conducive to learning

In a sentenceAccess to clean water has a beneficial effect on public health.

Vague and informal. Name the kind of harm instead of labelling it bad.

Collocationsa detrimental effect on · adverse consequences · damaging to health

In a sentenceLong working hours can have a detrimental effect on family life.

Too casual for academic writing, and imprecise. Say big in what sense.

Collocationsa substantial increase · a significant proportion · considerable investment

In a sentenceThere has been a substantial rise in online shopping.

Fine in speech, weak in writing. Choose a word that shows how small.

Collocationsa marginal decline · a negligible difference · a modest improvement

In a sentenceThe policy made only a marginal difference to results.

Not wrong, but everyone uses it. A sharper word shows range.

Collocationsa crucial role · of paramount importance · an essential part of

In a sentenceEducation plays a crucial role in reducing poverty.

An empty word in an essay: it tells the reader nothing about why.

Collocationsa compelling argument · a striking contrast · a thought-provoking study

In a sentenceThe research raises a compelling question about privacy.

Acceptable, but flat. A precise word signals control of register.

Collocationsa challenging task · a demanding schedule · a formidable obstacle

In a sentenceBalancing work and study is challenging for many students.

Casual. Say what makes it easy: simple, clear, quick to reach.

Collocationsa straightforward process · readily accessible · an intuitive design

In a sentenceThe app makes booking a ticket straightforward.

Better suited to Speaking. In writing, name the feeling more exactly.

Collocationsdeeply satisfied · a sense of contentment · highly satisfied with

In a sentenceEmployees who feel valued are more satisfied at work.

Fine, but often replaceable with a word that carries more precision.

Collocationsa widespread belief · increasingly prevalent · a commonplace practice

In a sentenceRemote working has become widespread since 2020.

Weak on its own. Say new in what way: recent, modern, original.

Collocationsa novel approach · emerging technology · an unprecedented level of

In a sentenceStreaming services took a novel approach to distribution.

Understates your range. Costly and prohibitive read more academic.

Collocationsprohibitively expensive · a costly undertaking · beyond the reach of

In a sentenceFor many families, university fees are now prohibitive.

Overused. Pick the word that matches the size and type of trouble.

Collocationsa pressing issue · a major obstacle to · a serious drawback

In a sentenceTraffic congestion is a pressing issue in most large cities.

Almost always a sign of imprecision. Name the actual thing: factor, feature, aspect.

Collocationsa key factor · an important aspect of · a further consideration

In a sentenceCost is the deciding factor for most first-time buyers.

Fine, but vary it. Naming the group is often clearer and higher-scoring.

Collocationsmembers of the public · a growing proportion of the population · young people

In a sentenceA growing proportion of the population works from home.

Casual for formal writing. Choose the word that fits the context.

Collocationspublic funding · government expenditure · a source of revenue

In a sentenceThe scheme relies on public funding to stay free.

Broad. A sharper noun shows exactly what kind of idea you mean.

Collocationsthe concept of · a widely held notion · the underlying principle

In a sentenceThe essay challenges the notion that money brings happiness.

Vague. Method, approach and means read far more precisely.

Collocationsan effective approach to · a means of · the most efficient method

In a sentenceRecycling is one means of reducing household waste.

Correct, but often left doing all the work. Vary with impact, consequence, outcome.

Collocationsa lasting impact on · far-reaching consequences · a direct influence on

In a sentenceAutomation is having a lasting impact on the job market.

Fine, but repeated to death in Task 2. Rotate with advantage, merit, gain.

Collocationsa clear advantage · the merits of · a long-term gain

In a sentenceOne clear advantage of public transport is lower emissions.

Good already, but worth varying so the pairing with benefit does not repeat.

Collocationsa serious disadvantage · a major limitation · the main shortcoming

In a sentenceThe main disadvantage of the plan is its cost.

The most informal verb in English. Almost always replaceable with something exact.

Collocationsacquire a skill · gain access to · attain a qualification

In a sentenceGraduates who acquire digital skills find work faster.

Overworked. The precise verb depends on what is being made or caused.

Collocationsgenerate income · establish a system · produce results

In a sentenceThe reform is designed to generate new jobs.

Fine in speech, but data and studies do more than show. Vary the reporting verb.

Collocationsthe data indicate · studies demonstrate · the figures illustrate

In a sentenceThe graph indicates a steady fall in unemployment.

Weak for stating a position. Argue, contend and maintain sound far more academic.

CollocationsI would argue that · many maintain that · it is widely held that

In a sentenceCritics argue that the policy does more harm than good.

Flat as a reporting verb. Match the verb to the force of the claim.

Collocationsthe report suggests · the author claims · as the study notes

In a sentenceThe author suggests that stricter limits would help.

Fine, but often upgradable to a verb that shows how the help works.

Collocationsfacilitate access to · enable students to · foster growth

In a sentenceSubsidised childcare enables more parents to work.

Correct, but repetitive. Trigger, prompt and give rise to add variety.

Collocationsgive rise to · result in higher costs · trigger a decline

In a sentenceRapid growth can give rise to housing shortages.

Serviceable, but employ, adopt and utilise (sparingly) show range.

Collocationsadopt a strategy · harness technology · implement a policy

In a sentenceSchools can harness technology to reach rural students.

A good word, but easily varied so it does not appear in every paragraph.

Collocationsenhance the quality of · strengthen the economy · refine the process

In a sentenceFeedback helps students enhance the quality of their writing.

Not weak, but overused in Task 1. Rotate with rise, climb, surge.

Collocationsrise sharply · climb steadily · surge dramatically

In a sentenceHouse prices surged in the final quarter of the year.

Fine, but Task 1 rewards a range of movement verbs. Vary the fall.

Collocationsfall steadily · decline sharply · plummet by half

In a sentenceSales plummeted after the subsidy was removed.

Broad. Say what kind of change: alter, shift, transform.

Collocationstransform the way we · shift towards · a fundamental change in

In a sentenceThe internet has transformed the way we work.

Fine, but require and demand read more formally in academic writing.

Collocationsrequire careful planning · call for urgent action · necessitate change

In a sentenceA cleaner economy will necessitate large-scale investment.

Too informal for writing. Use a precise quantifier instead.

Collocationsnumerous studies · a great deal of research · a wide range of options

In a sentenceNumerous studies link exercise to better sleep.

Often a crutch. A stronger adjective usually removes the need for it.

Collocationsinstead of very big say enormous · instead of very important say vital

In a sentenceThe results were remarkable rather than <i>very good</i>.

Fine in Speaking about scenery, but vague on paper. Name the kind of appeal instead.

Collocationsa picturesque village · striking architecture · an elegant solution

In a sentenceThe old quarter is full of picturesque lanes and courtyards.

Labels the feeling without its strength or cause. The precise word does both.

Collocationspublic frustration over · widespread resentment of · indignant at the decision

In a sentenceResidents were indignant at the sudden rise in parking charges.

A child's word in an essay. Choose by what is sad: an event, a mood, a loss.

Collocationsa regrettable decision · distressing scenes · a sombre mood

In a sentenceThe closure of the library was a regrettable loss for the town.

Says almost nothing about degree. IELTS topics on work and health want the stronger scale.

Collocationschronic fatigue · burnt out by overwork · a lethargic response

In a sentenceLong commutes leave workers drained before the day begins.

Conversational. Essays about risk and technology want the measured register.

Collocationsapprehensive about the future · an alarming trend · public anxiety over

In a sentenceMany parents feel apprehensive about their children's use of social media.

Neutral to a fault. The upgrades say famous for what, and how deservedly.

Collocationsrenowned for its cuisine · a prominent figure · an eminent scientist

In a sentenceThe city is renowned for its street food.

Overused for anything liked by anyone. Say how widespread, and with whom.

Collocationsincreasingly prevalent among · in high demand · ubiquitous in cities

In a sentenceRide-sharing apps have become ubiquitous in large cities.

Covers people, objects and ideas. Each deserves its own word.

Collocationsan ageing population · outdated methods · obsolete technology

In a sentenceThe factory still relies on antiquated equipment.

Fine for people, weak for anything else that is merely early in its life.

Collocationsa fledgling business · the formative years · an emerging industry

In a sentenceThe scheme supports fledgling businesses in their first two years.

Blunt about people and useless about places. The upgrades carry the nuance.

Collocationsaffluent urban consumers · a prosperous region · a privileged minority

In a sentenceAdvertising often targets affluent urban consumers.

Means both low-income and low-quality. Pick the meaning, then the precise word.

Collocationsdisadvantaged backgrounds · deprived areas · substandard housing

In a sentenceChildren from disadvantaged backgrounds start school at a measurable disadvantage.

Serviceable but flat. Scale it: a hazard, a threat, a genuine peril.

Collocationshazardous working conditions · a precarious position · treacherous roads

In a sentenceWorking at height without training is genuinely hazardous.

A one-size word for people, data, roads and investments. They take different upgrades.

Collocationsa secure environment · a stable income · a watertight system

In a sentenceThe records are held in a secure facility off site.

For IELTS environment and health topics, the technical words earn the marks.

Collocationsunpolluted water · sanitary conditions · a pristine coastline

In a sentenceAccess to unpolluted water remains a global challenge.

Describes you, your day and your street identically. Separate them.

Collocationsa hectic schedule · a bustling market · congested roads

In a sentenceThe station is congested throughout the morning peak.

Sounds like a complaint. The precise word sounds like an observation.

Collocationsmonotonous work · a repetitive routine · an uninspiring curriculum

In a sentencePurely repetitive work becomes monotonous within weeks.

Everything after 1950 is modern. Say how new, and in what way.

Collocationsstate-of-the-art equipment · contemporary design · a pioneering approach

In a sentenceThe hospital uses state-of-the-art imaging equipment.

Often means no more than old. The upgrades say whether that is a strength.

Collocationstime-honoured crafts · a long-standing practice · deep-rooted customs

In a sentenceThe festival preserves time-honoured crafts.

Correct but mild. IELTS argument essays usually need the stronger grades.

Collocationsan essential service · vital infrastructure · indispensable skills

In a sentenceBasic digital skills are now indispensable in most workplaces.

A serious problem could be anything. Grade it: severe, grave, or critical.

Collocationsa grave risk · an acute shortage · far-reaching consequences

In a sentenceAir pollution poses a grave risk to urban health.

For trends and growth, the data words score higher than the speed words.

Collocationsexponential growth · a meteoric rise · an accelerating trend

In a sentenceThe city has seen exponential growth in food delivery services.

Slow progress, slow traffic and a slow economy each have a better word.

Collocationssluggish growth · a protracted process · a stagnant economy

In a sentenceProgress on recycling targets has been glacial.

Strong argument, strong economy, strong smell. Match the noun, not the habit.

Collocationsa compelling case · robust evidence · a formidable challenge

In a sentenceThere is a compelling case for taxing sugary drinks.

In essays it usually means unconvincing or small. Say which.

Collocationsa tenuous link · flimsy evidence · a negligible effect

In a sentenceThe link between the two figures is tenuous at best.

Everyday and fine in Speaking. Writing about consumers and budgets wants the formal set.

Collocationspurchase goods online · acquire new skills · procure equipment

In a sentenceCouncils procure equipment through competitive tender.

One word for a market stall and a global campaign. The upgrades separate them.

Collocationsmarket a product · export goods abroad · monetise online content

In a sentenceMany artists now market their work directly online.

Give money, give access, give a right. Each pairing has a precise verb.

Collocationsgrant funding · allocate resources · confer an advantage

In a sentenceThe scholarship grants students two years of funded study.

A flat opener. Projects launch, policies are introduced, trends emerge.

Collocationslaunch a scheme · establish a business · initiate reforms

In a sentenceThe council launched a scheme to insulate older homes.

Stopping a habit, a project and a crime are different acts. Choose accordingly.

Collocationshalt construction · discontinue a service · eradicate a disease

In a sentenceThe city halted construction pending a safety review.

Learning a fact, a skill and a language deserve different verbs.

Collocationsacquire a language · master a technique · grasp a concept

In a sentenceChildren acquire languages fastest before the age of ten.

Casual for anything official. Reports notify, brief and disclose.

Collocationsnotify staff in advance · disclose the findings · brief the committee

In a sentenceStaff were notified of the change a week in advance.

People talk. Institutions communicate, negotiate and liaise.

Collocationscommunicate effectively · negotiate an agreement · liaise with colleagues

In a sentenceThe two departments liaise weekly on shared cases.

Look at, look for and look into are three tasks. Upgrade each separately.

Collocationsexamine the evidence · monitor progress · scrutinise advertising

In a sentenceRegulators scrutinise every advert aimed at children.

Studies do not find things down the back of the sofa. They identify and establish.

Collocationsidentify the causes · detect early signs · pinpoint the source

In a sentenceThe study identified three causes of late-night accidents.

Keeping standards, records and traditions are all better said precisely.

Collocationsmaintain standards · preserve heritage · safeguard personal data

In a sentenceMuseums preserve objects that would otherwise be lost.

Sound, but repeated five times in one essay it flattens. Vary by object.

Collocationscurb emissions · mitigate the risks · alleviate poverty

In a sentenceCongestion charges curb traffic in city centres.

Fine for plants. Markets expand, problems escalate, industries proliferate.

Collocationsa burgeoning industry · demand has surged · services have proliferated

In a sentenceOnline tutoring has proliferated since 2020.

Accurate but mild for Task 1. Match the verb to the steepness of the line.

Collocationsprices soared · costs are spiralling · demand surged

In a sentenceRents have soared in every major city.

Spending money and spending time invite different upgrades.

Collocationsinvest in infrastructure · allocate a budget · devote time to

In a sentenceGovernments should earmark part of the budget for flood defences.

Few large problems are ever solved outright. Addressed, tackled and remedied are more honest and score better.

Collocationsaddress the root cause · tackle congestion · rectify the error

In a sentenceBetter lighting alone will not remedy the problem of street crime.

Neutral. The upgrades say whether the influence helps, harms or transforms.

Collocationsshape public opinion · undermine confidence · compromise safety

In a sentenceShift work can undermine long-term health.

Permission is the weakest reading. Technology enables, policy empowers.

Collocationsenable remote study · facilitate trade · empower local communities

In a sentenceSmartphones enable students to study anywhere.

Avoiding a mistake and avoiding a person are different. Formal writing prefers the preventive verbs.

Collocationsavert a crisis · circumvent the rules · forestall criticism

In a sentenceEarly screening can avert the most serious outcomes.

In essays it reports opinion. The academic verbs signal how firmly it is held.

Collocationseconomists contend that · maintain the view that · assert a right

In a sentenceMany economists contend that the tax is regressive.

Everyday. Formal registers select, opt and favour.

Collocationsopt for flexible work · select candidates · favour one approach

In a sentenceMore graduates now opt for flexible contracts.

Everything from jobs to art gets created. The precise verb carries the method.

Collocationsgenerate employment · devise a strategy · forge partnerships

In a sentenceThe scheme generates around 400 seasonal jobs.

So broad it barely commits. Skills are honed, habits cultivated, plans refined.

Collocationscultivate discipline · hone a skill · refine a proposal

In a sentenceTeam sports cultivate discipline as much as fitness.

People are encouraged; behaviour is incentivised and habits fostered.

Collocationsincentivise training · foster innovation · promote healthy habits

In a sentenceTax breaks incentivise firms to train apprentices.

In Task 1 the data does not explain itself; it accounts for and illustrates.

Collocationsaccount for the difference · illustrate the trend · clarify the rules

In a sentenceSeasonal demand largely accounts for the winter dip.

Strong already; the upgrades add how the prevention works.

Collocationsdeter petty crime · guard against fraud · stave off decline

In a sentenceClear signage deters casual trespassing.

Respectable but everywhere. Equip, deliver and cater for are more exact.

Collocationsequip students with skills · deliver services · cater for demand

In a sentenceThe centre equips refugees with workplace language.

Trying is casual; striving and endeavouring signal sustained, serious effort.

Collocationsstrive for excellence · endeavour to improve · seek to reduce

In a sentenceThe city is striving to halve food waste by 2030.

Sound, but every discussion essay repeats it. Merit, asset and edge share the load.

Collocationsa clear asset · a competitive edge · the merits of the proposal

In a sentenceFluency in two languages is a clear asset in the job market.

Long and colourless. Drawback and shortcoming say the same thing better.

Collocationsthe main drawback of · a serious limitation · a potential pitfall

In a sentenceThe main drawback of remote work is isolation.

A reason explains; a rationale justifies; a catalyst triggers. They are not interchangeable.

Collocationsthe rationale for the ban · a contributing factor · grounds for concern

In a sentenceThe rationale for the ban is largely preventative.

Everything has results. Consequences, repercussions and ramifications grade them.

Collocationsan unintended consequence · long-term repercussions · the upshot of the change

In a sentenceOne repercussion of cheap flights is overtourism.

The modern all-purpose word for problem. The upgrades restore the distinctions.

Collocationsa pressing concern · an ethical dilemma · a source of controversy

In a sentenceData privacy has become a genuine dilemma for schools.

Vague by design. Circumstances, context and climate each commit to more.

Collocationsin the current climate · under difficult circumstances · the wider context

In a sentenceIn the current economic climate, caution is understandable.

A choice is what you face; an option is what is on offer; a trade-off is what it costs.

Collocationsa trade-off between cost and time · a viable alternative · consumer preference

In a sentenceCommuters face a trade-off between cost and time.

In my opinion, opinion is overworked. Stance, view and judgement carry weight.

Collocationsa firm stance on · the panel's judgement · a widely held view

In a sentenceThe report reflects the panel's considered judgement.

Means both opportunity and probability. Split them and each side upgrades cleanly.

Collocationsimprove the likelihood of · the prospect of promotion · untapped potential

In a sentenceEarly treatment improves the likelihood of full recovery.

Safe but limp, and it hides the scale. The upgrades put a size on the claim.

Collocationsa substantial proportion of graduates · a wide range of services · numerous studies

In a sentenceA substantial proportion of graduates now rent into their thirties.

Grammatically fine, but the classic Band 6 essay opener. Vary it or drop it.

Collocationsin recent years · at present · over the past decade

In a sentenceIn recent years, remote study has become routine.

Spoken rhythm on the page. One word does the same job with more precision.

Collocationsincreasingly common · a growing number of firms · an ever-growing proportion

In a sentenceIncreasingly, employers screen applicants online.

Fine in speech, too casual for an essay. In writing, name the age group precisely.

Collocationsyoung children · school-age children · adolescents and young adults

In a sentenceThe policy would benefit school-age children most.

The vaguest noun in English and a reliable band-capper. Replace it with the actual category.

Collocationspersonal belongings · household items · teaching materials

In a sentencePassengers must keep their belongings with them at all times.

Conversational hedging. Speaking Part 1 tolerates it, but essays want a measured degree word.

Collocationssomewhat higher · marginally more expensive · to some extent justified

In a sentenceThe results were somewhat better than expected.

Firmly informal, as are tons of and heaps of. Formal writing counts differently.

Collocationsnumerous studies · a great deal of evidence · an abundance of choice

In a sentenceNumerous studies support this conclusion.

Spoken and gendered. Writing wants a neutral, precise group noun.

Collocationsthe individuals concerned · staff members · all participants

In a sentenceAll participants completed the survey.

Enthusiastic speech, not academic register. Choose praise that names the quality.

Collocationsa remarkable achievement · an outstanding result · an exceptional talent

In a sentenceThe team produced an outstanding result.

In the approval sense it belongs to conversation. Say what is actually admirable about the thing.

Collocationsan innovative design · a striking feature · an ingenious solution

In a sentenceThe bridge is an ingenious piece of engineering.

Spoken filler and faint praise at once. In writing, commit to a judgement.

Collocationsan acceptable standard · an adequate supply · a viable option

In a sentencePublic transport here is adequate but not extensive.

An intensifier that intensifies nothing, like very. Precision does the emphasising.

Collocationsgenuinely surprising · considerably cheaper · markedly different

In a sentenceLiving costs are considerably lower outside the capital.

Not wrong, just worn out. Scale words earn more when they fit the noun precisely.

Collocationsa substantial increase · considerable expense · an immense challenge

In a sentenceHosting the games involved considerable expense.

The politest way to say nothing. Name the pleasant quality instead.

Collocationsa pleasant climate · a delightful setting · congenial surroundings

In a sentenceThe old town has a delightful riverside setting.

Great at expressing enthusiasm, poor at expressing meaning. Pick the precise virtue.

Collocationsa significant advantage · a superb facility · a formidable reputation

In a sentenceThe university has a distinguished research record.

Strong feeling, weak information. Say what kind of bad, and how bad.

Collocationsappalling conditions · a dire shortage · atrocious weather

In a sentenceMany tenants endure appalling housing conditions.

Amazement is a reaction, not a description. Describe the thing, not your surprise.

Collocationsa remarkable recovery · an astonishing pace · a staggering sum

In a sentenceThe economy grew at an astonishing pace.

Doubly vague: difficult or solid? For the difficulty sense, these are the upgrades.

Collocationsa demanding schedule · a challenging task · an arduous journey

In a sentenceJunior doctors work a demanding schedule.

Serviceable but blunt. Precision distinguishes error, falsehood and injustice.

Collocationsan incorrect assumption · a flawed argument · an unfounded claim

In a sentenceThe report was based on a flawed assumption.

Simple can mean easy, plain or naive. Choose the sense before you upgrade it.

Collocationsa straightforward process · an uncomplicated design · a rudimentary system

In a sentenceRegistration is a straightforward process.

Carries a whiff of poor quality. If you mean the price alone, say so precisely.

Collocationsaffordable housing · an economical option · a cost-effective solution

In a sentenceBuses remain the most cost-effective way to travel.

Fine, but Task 2 essays on cities reward the technical register.

Collocationscongested roads · a densely populated district · overcrowded classrooms

In a sentenceThe city centre is congested at rush hour.

Ambiguous in British English, where it also means well-dressed. For intelligence, upgrade it.

Collocationsan astute observation · a shrewd investment · a perceptive analysis

In a sentenceIt was a shrewd investment that doubled in value.

The emptiest verb in English. Essays reward the verb that names the action.

Collocationscarry out a survey · undertake a study · conduct an investigation

In a sentenceResearchers conducted a nationwide survey.

In the sense of needing time or effort, more precise verbs are waiting.

Collocationsrequire training · consume resources · necessitate careful planning

In a sentenceThe reforms will necessitate significant investment.

A workhorse that lifts nothing. For placing things, deliberately or formally:

Collocationsplace restrictions on · position the camera · situate the school centrally

In a sentenceThe new hospital is situated close to the motorway.

Everyday desire. Formal writing grades wanting by strength and register.

Collocationsseek employment · aspire to a career in law · be eager to participate

In a sentenceMany graduates aspire to careers in technology.

Knowing has degrees. These verbs say how well, and in what way.

Collocationsbe aware of the risks · familiar with the software · well versed in the law

In a sentenceApplicants must be familiar with the relevant legislation.

In essays, I feel that sounds tentative. Opinion verbs carry more authority.

Collocationsconsider it necessary · perceive a change · contend that the policy failed

In a sentenceCritics contend that the policy has failed.

Asking scales from a polite question to a formal demand. Choose the right rung.

Collocationsrequest permission · enquire about availability · solicit feedback

In a sentenceThe committee solicited feedback from residents.

Fine, but Writing Task 2 openers reward the formal register.

Collocationsshare this view · concur with the findings · endorse the proposal

In a sentenceMost economists concur with this assessment.

Moving what, and how far? People relocate, goods are transported, staff are redeployed.

Collocationsrelocate the factory · transport goods by rail · redeploy staff

In a sentenceThe company plans to relocate its headquarters.

A phrasal that hides the action. Formal writing names how the problem is handled.

Collocationsaddress the problem · tackle congestion · remedy the shortage

In a sentenceThe council has pledged to remedy the housing shortage.

A spoken hedge that weakens every claim it touches. In an essay it reads as unsure rather than careful.

Collocationssomewhat limited · relatively common · to some extent inevitable

In a sentenceThe evidence for this claim is somewhat limited.

Teen-speak in an essay. English has a full shelf of precise words for completeness.

Collocationsentirely dependent on · wholly unsuitable · utterly transformed

In a sentenceThe two systems are entirely separate.

A filler in speech and a vague signpost in writing. If you are summarising, say so precisely.

Collocationsessentially unchanged · fundamentally different · in essence a question of cost

In a sentenceThe two proposals are essentially the same.

Conversational. Formal writing names the role or the level, not the person you answer to.

Collocationsreport to a line manager · consult senior management · a demanding employer

In a sentenceStaff rarely challenge senior management directly.

Serviceable but flat. The precise word tells the examiner whether you mean the role, the field or the working life.

Collocationsa skilled occupation · take up a post · pursue a career

In a sentenceNursing is a demanding but rewarding profession.

It means both amusing and strange, and the reader cannot tell which you intended. Choose the precise one.

Collocationsa witty remark · an entertaining speaker · a light-hearted tone

In a sentenceThe presenter's witty remarks kept the audience engaged.

Informal and imprecise: prices, schedules and ideas each need a different word.

Collocationsan absurd suggestion · irrational behaviour · unsustainable prices

In a sentenceHouse prices in the capital have become unsustainable.

Playground register. In academic writing, oddity is described, not exclaimed at.

Collocationsa peculiar habit · a curious result · an anomalous reading

In a sentenceThe survey produced one anomalous result.

Rude about people and vague about ideas. Criticise the decision, precisely.

Collocationsan ill-advised decision · a misguided policy · an ill-conceived scheme

In a sentenceCutting the budget mid-project was an ill-advised decision.

Pretty good, pretty hard: a spoken hedge with no place in an essay. Grade the claim properly.

Collocationsfairly common · reasonably priced · decidedly mixed

In a sentenceThe results of the trial were decidedly mixed.

Fine inside a sentence, weak as your only way of adding an idea. Vary the addition and the cohesion mark follows.

Collocationsfurthermore, the data suggest · in addition to the cost · moreover, the trend is accelerating

In a sentenceFurthermore, the policy is expensive to enforce.

Every contrast in a Band 6 essay is a but. The stronger linkers signal exactly what kind of contrast follows.

Collocationshowever, the evidence suggests otherwise · whereas rural areas declined · nonetheless, the risks remain

In a sentenceThe policy is popular. Nevertheless, it carries clear costs.

Spoken cause-and-effect. Written English marks a result with a heavier word.

Collocationsconsequently, several factories closed · thus reducing demand · hence the need for regulation

In a sentenceDemand fell sharply. Consequently, several factories closed.

Correct, but exhausted by repetition. Reasons can be introduced half a dozen better ways.

Collocationsowing to rising costs · on account of the shortage · since demand had fallen

In a sentenceThe event was cancelled owing to safety concerns.

A spoken corrective that creeps into essays. When you mean the facts, say so.

Collocationsin fact, the opposite occurred · in reality, few households comply · indeed, the figures confirm it

In a sentenceIn fact, the opposite occurred.

Correct but exhausted when it opens every piece of evidence. Vary how the example arrives.

Collocationsa case in point is japan · to illustrate, consider commuting · notably, the largest cities

In a sentenceA case in point is Japan, where the population is ageing fastest.

Firstly, secondly, thirdly reads mechanical when every paragraph marches to the same drum.

Collocationsfirst and foremost, the cost · to begin with, consider access · primarily a question of funding

In a sentenceFirst and foremost, the scheme must be affordable.

Storybook phrasing. Essays weigh outcomes rather than simply arriving at them.

Collocationsultimately, the decision rests with parents · in the long run, costs fall · in the final analysis, both sides gain

In a sentenceUltimately, the decision rests with parents.

A spoken pivot. In writing it dismisses your own previous point.

Collocationsin any case, the cost argument no longer holds · even so, the risks remain · be that as it may, reform is overdue

In a sentenceIn any case, the cost argument no longer holds.

It assumes the reader already agrees. An essay concedes a point properly instead.

Collocationsadmittedly, the scheme carries risk · granted, the evidence is mixed · undoubtedly a factor

In a sentenceAdmittedly, the scheme carries some financial risk.

The Band 5 way to describe every chart. In Task 1, precision lives in the verb.

Collocationsrise steadily · surge by 20 per cent · soar to a peak

In a sentenceSales soared to a peak of 4,000 units in July.

The mirror of go up, and just as flat. Name the speed and scale of the fall in the verb itself.

Collocationsfall sharply · decline steadily · plummet to a low

In a sentenceOutput plummeted to its lowest point in a decade.

Charts rarely just stay the same. They hold, flatten or settle.

Collocationsremain stable at 40 per cent · level off after 2010 · plateau at around 600

In a sentenceAfter 2015 the figure plateaued at around 600.

Six words where one precise verb would do, and the one verb is a Band 7 staple.

Collocationsfluctuate between 30 and 50 · oscillate around the average · a volatile decade

In a sentencePrices fluctuated between 30 and 50 dollars throughout the period.

About half, about 4,000: fine in speech, imprecise on paper. Task 1 rewards the exact degree of approximation.

Collocationsapproximately half · in the region of 4,000 · just under a third

In a sentenceApproximately half of all respondents agreed.

Charts rarely show a bare number. Name what the axis actually measures.

Collocationsthe proportion of commuters · a rising rate of ownership · the share of renewable energy

In a sentenceThe proportion of households recycling rose steadily.

Increased a lot tells the examiner nothing about scale. The degree adverbs do the quantifying.

Collocationsrise significantly · fall considerably · improve markedly

In a sentenceCar ownership increased considerably between 1990 and 2010.

A high number is a Band 5 measurement. Grade the size, then let the noun carry it.

Collocationsa substantial majority · a considerable increase · an exceptional level of demand

In a sentenceA substantial majority of respondents favoured the change.

The flat opposite of high. Small differences deserve exact adjectives, especially in Task 1.

Collocationsa modest rise · a minimal difference · a negligible share

In a sentenceThe difference between the two groups was negligible.

Fine in speech. In Task 1 the examiner wants the gradient named: sharp, steep, dramatic.

Collocationsrise sharply · fall steeply · grow rapidly

In a sentenceUnemployment rose sharply after 2008.

The only preference verb most candidates use. Part 1 lives on preference questions, so the range shows immediately.

Collocationskeen on photography · fond of early mornings · drawn to quieter places

In a sentenceI have always been drawn to quieter places.

Strong in speech but flat on repeat. Grade the enthusiasm and name what exactly you value.

Collocationspassionate about cooking · devoted to the team · a deep appreciation for live music

In a sentenceI am genuinely passionate about cooking for other people.

Blunt and childlike when it carries every dislike. English grades aversion finely.

Collocationsdislike crowded trains · resent the commute · an aversion to small talk

In a sentenceI resent the time the commute takes out of my day.

Very fun is an error and just fun is a shrug. Say what kind of enjoyable it was.

Collocationsa rewarding experience · an absorbing book · an exhilarating ride

In a sentenceLearning to dive was exhilarating.

Teen register. Part 1 loves questions about friends, and this is where candidates give away their range.

Collocationsmeet up at weekends · socialise after work · catch up over coffee

In a sentenceWe catch up over coffee most weekends.

A nice place could be a bench or a country. The precise noun paints the picture the examiner marks.

Collocationsa popular destination · a peaceful setting · unfamiliar surroundings

In a sentenceThe lake is a peaceful setting for an early walk.

My hobby is reading sounds like a memorised line from a textbook. Reframe the activity naturally.

Collocationsan absorbing pastime · an outdoor pursuit · my main leisure activity

In a sentencePhotography has become my main creative pursuit.

Part 1 food questions arrive in almost every test, and tasty is the Band 5 answer to all of them.

Collocationsa flavoursome broth · an appetising smell · a mouth-watering dessert

In a sentenceMy grandmother makes a genuinely flavoursome fish soup.

Fine for a person, weak for a whole town, a workplace and a culture at once. Vary it by what you are describing.

Collocationsa welcoming neighbourhood · an approachable manager · a convivial atmosphere

In a sentenceThe cafe has a convivial atmosphere in the evenings.

Part 3 asks you to speculate, and maybe is speculation without craft. The hedging language is the skill being tested.

Collocationsarguably the biggest factor · conceivably within a decade · it may well be that costs fall

In a sentenceIt may well be that remote work becomes the norm.

Students overclaim with it. Evidence rarely proves anything outright. It points, supports and suggests, and examiners notice the difference.

Collocationsdemonstrate a link · indicate a trend · corroborate the findings

In a sentenceThe survey data indicate a clear generational divide.

This essay will look at is the weakest possible opening move. Academic English examines, not glances.

Collocationsexamine the causes · investigate the link · evaluate both positions

In a sentenceThis essay will examine the causes of urban migration.

Conversational discovery. Research and argument use heavier verbs for the same act.

Collocationsestablish the cause · determine the extent · ascertain whether the policy works

In a sentenceResearchers have yet to establish the cause of the decline.

I am against it states a position without any force. The verbs of opposition carry the argument.

Collocationsoppose the proposal · object to the charges · contest the assumption

In a sentenceMany residents object to the proposed charges.

Technology brings many problems is a translation habit. English generates, causes and gives rise to.

Collocationsgive rise to disputes · generate employment · engender distrust

In a sentencePoorly planned development gives rise to long-term congestion.

Serviceable in speech, light in writing. Policy and argument ensure and guarantee.

Collocationsensure compliance · guarantee access · safeguard standards

In a sentenceRegulation exists to ensure that standards are maintained.

The Band 5 trajectory. Deterioration has its own verbs, and Task 2 problem essays need them constantly.

Collocationsconditions deteriorate · air quality degrades · the problem is exacerbated by traffic

In a sentenceWithout intervention, congestion will simply be exacerbated.

The mirror of get worse. Improvement essays reward the precise verb for the kind of recovery.

Collocationsstandards improve · the economy rebounds · community life flourishes

In a sentenceLocal high streets have begun to rebound since the scheme opened.

Everything happens. The stronger verbs say whether it arose, unfolded or struck without warning.

Collocationsproblems arise · changes come about gradually · events unfold quickly

In a sentenceDisputes typically arise when responsibilities are unclear.

Lets people do things is speech. Formal writing permits and enables.

Collocationspermit access · enable smaller firms to compete · empower local councils

In a sentenceThe scheme enables smaller firms to compete for contracts.

Correct but exhausted when it opens every paragraph. Vary the stance marker and the essay reads as controlled.

Collocationsin my view, the benefits outweigh the costs · i would argue the opposite · it seems to me a question of funding

In a sentenceI would argue that the benefits clearly outweigh the costs.

Some people think opens half of all Task 2 essays. Name who, if you can: parents, employers, policymakers.

Collocationsproponents maintain · sceptics point out · a significant minority disagree

In a sentenceProponents maintain that the tax changes behaviour.

Vague attribution. Academic writing reports a claim impersonally or names the group making it.

Collocationsit is often claimed that cities are safer · critics assert the opposite · advocates contend the cost is justified

In a sentenceIt is often claimed that city life erodes community.

An overclaim the examiner reads as weak argumentation. Report the consensus, do not declare it universal.

Collocationsit is widely believed that exercise helps · generally accepted as fact · a broad consensus among researchers

In a sentenceIt is widely believed that regular exercise improves mood.

Certainty you have not earned weakens the argument. Calibrate the claim to the evidence.

Collocationsthe evidence suggests a link · arguably the main cause · strong grounds to believe costs will fall

In a sentenceThe evidence suggests a link between commuting time and stress.

It is a good idea to is essay filler. The adjectives of judgement do the work in one word.

Collocationsa sensible precaution · a prudent investment · a judicious use of public money

In a sentenceInvesting early in flood defences is prudent.

A spoken hedge that implies your other sentences were not. Concede or assert, properly.

Collocationsadmittedly a risk · in truth, few comply · it must be acknowledged that costs rose

In a sentenceIt must be acknowledged that the scheme carries real costs.

An empty existential opener. Quantify, or fold the number into a stronger subject.

Collocationsa wide range of factors · a considerable number of studies · countless examples

In a sentenceA wide range of factors influences house prices.

The honest Part 3 answer, delivered in its weakest form. Say what it depends on.

Collocationsit hinges on funding · varies according to age · contingent on local conditions

In a sentenceWhether the policy works hinges on how it is enforced.

Correct but mechanical when every essay closes the same way. The stronger closers also weigh, not just stop.

Collocationson balance, the benefits prevail · taking everything into account · all things considered, reform is justified

In a sentenceOn balance, the benefits of the scheme prevail.

Every apology letter needs more than sorry. Formal English regrets, and apologises, precisely.

Collocationsplease accept my apologies for the delay · I regret any inconvenience caused · I sincerely apologise for the error

In a sentencePlease accept my apologies for the late reply.

Fine in a text message. A formal letter expresses gratitude in full.

Collocationsgrateful for your assistance · I appreciate your patience · express my gratitude for the opportunity

In a sentenceI am grateful for your prompt assistance.

Letters do not ask for things. They request them, and the register carries the mark.

Collocationsrequest a refund · seek clarification · formally request a transfer

In a sentenceI am writing to request a full refund.

Office speech. A letter awaits a response, or asks the reader to reply by a date.

Collocationsrespond by Friday · a prompt response · follow up on the matter

In a sentenceI would appreciate a response by the end of the month.

A handyman fixes. A letter of complaint asks for the fault to be put right, formally.

Collocationsrectify the fault · resolve the issue promptly · repair the damage

In a sentenceI trust you will rectify the fault without further delay.

Soon promises nothing. Formal requests name the speed: promptly, without delay, by a date.

Collocationsrespond promptly · at your earliest convenience · without further delay

In a sentenceI would appreciate a reply at your earliest convenience.

The letter is a complaint, but the verb inside it should be cooler than the feeling.

Collocationsexpress my dissatisfaction with the service · lodge a formal complaint · bring this to your attention

In a sentenceI am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the service I received.

Annoyed sounds petty on paper. Graded dissatisfaction reads as controlled, which is the point.

Collocationsdissatisfied with the outcome · deeply concerned by the delay · disappointed to discover

In a sentenceI was disappointed to discover the booking had been cancelled.

Fine for a colleague, light for a letter. Formal English asks to be informed or notified.

Collocationsnotify me of any changes · confirm the booking in writing · I would appreciate confirmation

In a sentencePlease notify me of any change to the schedule.

A phrasal that hides the arranging. Meetings are arranged, scheduled and convened.

Collocationsarrange a meeting · schedule an inspection · convene a review

In a sentenceI would like to arrange a meeting at your convenience.

Money and goods are not given back in a formal letter. They are returned, refunded and reimbursed.

Collocationsrefund the full amount · reimburse my expenses · return the deposit

In a sentenceI expect to be reimbursed for the additional costs.

Broken covers everything from a hinge to a promise. A complaint names the kind of fault.

Collocationsa faulty appliance · defective goods · arrived damaged

In a sentenceThe machine was faulty on arrival.

People come to parties. They attend meetings, ceremonies and interviews.

Collocationsattend the ceremony · take part in the workshop · confirm my attendance

In a sentenceI would be delighted to attend the ceremony.

You book a table in speech. On paper the room is reserved and the reservation confirmed.

Collocationsreserve a room · make a reservation for four · confirm the booking in writing

In a sentenceI would like to reserve a double room for two nights.

A phrasal refusal. Formal English declines, and gives its reasons.

Collocationsdecline the invitation · reject the proposal · regretfully decline

In a sentenceI must regretfully decline the invitation.

One noun for every kind of unlikeness. English grades the gap: distinction, disparity, gulf.

Collocationsa clear distinction between · a widening disparity in income · regional variation

In a sentenceThere is a widening disparity between urban and rural wages.

Decisions are made, reached and reviewed. The collocation earns as much as the noun.

Collocationsreach a decision · make an informed decision · a considered judgement

In a sentenceParents must be able to make an informed decision about schooling.

A goal is scored in football. Plans have aims, objectives and ambitions.

Collocationsachieve an objective · a long-term ambition · set realistic targets

In a sentenceThe main objective of the scheme is to cut congestion.

Everything has parts. Arguments have elements, aspects and facets, and each collocates differently.

Collocationsa key element of the plan · every facet of the problem · a central component

In a sentenceCost is only one facet of the problem.

A high level of is the default measure. Degree, extent and scale are more precise instruments.

Collocationsthe extent of the damage · a degree of uncertainty · the sheer scale of the problem

In a sentenceThe extent of the damage only became clear later.

Support is what everything receives. Backing, endorsement and advocacy say who gives it, and how.

Collocationspublic backing for the scheme · win endorsement · financial assistance

In a sentenceThe proposal has won broad public backing.

Pressure covers stress, workload and expectation at once. Name which one you mean.

Collocationsplace a strain on services · ease the financial burden · the demands of modern work

In a sentenceTourism places a considerable strain on local services.

Skill is generic. Competence, expertise and proficiency each claim a different level of mastery.

Collocationstechnical expertise · proficiency in English · develop core competences

In a sentenceThe role demands genuine technical expertise.

A playground word for a legal idea. Regulations, requirements and legislation are the grown-up forms.

Collocationscomply with regulations · introduce legislation · a legal requirement

In a sentenceNew legislation obliges firms to report their emissions.

Cost is fine, but budgets speak of expenses, expenditure and outlay, each with its own scale.

Collocationspublic expenditure on health · a significant initial outlay · cut household outgoings

In a sentencePublic expenditure on health has doubled in a decade.

Questions have answers. Problems have solutions, remedies and responses, and essays deal in problems.

Collocationsa lasting solution · an effective remedy · the official response

In a sentenceCongestion charging is only a partial remedy.

Everything plays a role. Function, position and contribution let you say what kind.

Collocationsplay a pivotal role in · serve a vital function · make a lasting contribution

In a sentenceSchools play a pivotal role in early socialisation.

One noun for both what happened and what you learned from it. The collocations split the two.

Collocationsfirst-hand experience of teaching · gain exposure to new markets · a proven track record

In a sentenceApplicants need a proven track record in sales.

Behaviour is neutral to a fault. Conduct, manners and misconduct each carry a judgement.

Collocationsprofessional conduct · a code of conduct · serious misconduct

In a sentenceThe code of conduct forbids gifts from suppliers.

Every Task 1 answer leans on trend. Pattern, tendency and trajectory spare it the repetition.

Collocationsa clear upward trajectory · a growing tendency · a marked shift towards renting

In a sentenceThe data show a marked shift towards renting.

In an essay, always is a claim. One counter-example sinks it, and there usually is one. Hedge it, or earn it.

Collocationsconsistently outperforms · as a rule · invariably leads to

In a sentenceCities with reliable public transport consistently report higher satisfaction.

The mirror of always: an absolute you rarely have the evidence for. Seldom makes the same point without the hostage to fortune.

Collocationsrarely results in · seldom the case · scarcely ever justified

In a sentenceBlanket bans are seldom effective on their own.

Accurate but flat, and it drifts to the front of every third sentence. Vary the word and vary its position.

Collocationsoccasionally leads to · on occasion · at times of pressure

In a sentenceRemote work occasionally blurs the line between office and home.

Honest but vague. The stronger words say how often, and sound like you counted.

Collocationsroutinely overlooked · a common occurrence · more often than not

In a sentenceMaintenance costs are routinely underestimated at the planning stage.

Fine in speech. In writing, typically and generally carry the same meaning at a higher register.

Collocationstypically associated with · generally regarded as · by and large unchanged

In a sentenceRural areas are typically the last to receive new infrastructure.

Reads as a guess. Academic writing hedges with likelihood, not luck.

Collocationsin all probability · highly likely to · the balance of evidence suggests

In a sentenceDemand for retraining will in all probability continue to rise.

An overclaim in most essays, and the most misspelled word in the test (definately is the classic). Certainty has to be earned.

Collocationsbeyond dispute · demonstrably false · undeniably effective

In a sentenceThe scheme has demonstrably reduced congestion in the city centre.

Perfectly good. The upgrades buy precision in Task 1, where just how close matters.

Collocationsvirtually all households · all but disappeared · verging on half

In a sentenceCheque payments have all but disappeared over the period.

All people, all countries, all students: the classic overclaim. The fix is usually a hedge, not a synonym, because all is rarely what you can prove.

Collocationsthe vast majority of respondents · virtually all age groups · without exception

In a sentenceThe vast majority of respondents supported the change.

Every is all in a smarter jacket, and it makes the same promise. Each and every is padding, not emphasis.

Collocationsvirtually every sector · universally acknowledged · across the board

In a sentencePrices rose across the board between 2010 and 2020.

Already a hedge, which is why it works. The upgrades sharpen how much of the whole you mean.

Collocationsaccounts for the lion's share · the overwhelming majority · the bulk of spending

In a sentenceHousing accounts for the lion's share of monthly expenditure.

Enough judges as it measures. Sufficient and adequate measure without the shrug, and not enough becomes insufficient in one word.

Collocationssufficient funding · an adequate supply · ample opportunity

In a sentenceMany rural clinics lack sufficient staff to meet demand.

The complaint register. Excessive and disproportionate make the same charge coolly, which reads as control.

Collocationsexcessive screen time · a disproportionate burden · an unsustainable workload

In a sentenceChildren are exposed to excessive advertising from an early age.

Fine word, casual position: it wanders to the front of sentences where largely and primarily sit more naturally.

Collocationsprimarily driven by · predominantly urban · for the most part unchanged

In a sentenceThe increase was primarily driven by online sales.

Learners lose marks to the missing a: few means not enough, a few means some. The upgrades count more precisely.

Collocationsa handful of exceptions · a small number of cases · a limited number of places

In a sentenceOnly a handful of countries have banned the practice outright.

The default worry word. Concerned reads as adult, and apprehensive names worry about what has not happened yet.

Collocationsdeeply concerned about · growing unease · apprehensive about the future

In a sentenceMany parents are apprehensive about how early children go online.

Everyone is surprised. Taken aback says it caught you mid-step, astonished says it rearranged your day.

Collocationstaken aback by · to my astonishment · utterly dumbfounded

In a sentenceI was completely taken aback by how quickly the town had changed.

Watch the ending first: excited is how you feel, exciting is what caused it. I am exciting is a different claim entirely.

Collocationsthrilled at the prospect · eagerly awaited · an exhilarating experience

In a sentenceI was thrilled at the prospect of studying abroad.

Worried is ongoing, nervous is before an event. Speaking Part 2 loves the before-the-event words.

Collocationson edge all morning · a bundle of nerves · butterflies in my stomach

In a sentenceBefore the interview I was completely on edge.

Proud states the feeling. A sense of achievement names what produced it, which is what Part 2 answers are made of.

Collocationstake pride in · a real sense of achievement · my proudest moment

In a sentenceFinishing the course gave me a genuine sense of achievement.

The spelling trap is dissapointed (one s, two p). Disillusioned is not a synonym: it means a belief died, not just a plan.

Collocationsbitterly disappointed · felt badly let down · grew disillusioned with

In a sentenceVoters grew disillusioned with promises that never materialised.

The double letters catch everyone (two r, two s). Mortified sits at the top of this ladder, reserved for the truly public moments.

Collocationsdeeply embarrassing · felt distinctly self-conscious · utterly mortified

In a sentenceI was mortified when my phone rang during the ceremony.

Mind the ending: my job is stressful, I am stressed. The upgrades name the load rather than the feeling.

Collocationsunder constant pressure · feeling overwhelmed · stretched to the limit

In a sentenceJunior doctors are stretched to the limit by long shifts.

Same ending trap: a relaxing weekend, a relaxed person. At ease and laid-back cover people, unhurried covers the pace of a place.

Collocationscompletely at ease · a laid-back atmosphere · an unhurried pace of life

In a sentenceThe coastal town has an unhurried pace of life.

A child's catch-all. Distressed is serious, shaken is sudden, and devastated is kept for the events that deserve it.

Collocationsvisibly distressed · badly shaken by · devastated by the news

In a sentenceResidents were badly shaken by the flooding.

Watch confidant: with an a it is a person you confide in. Self-assured describes manner, composed describes it under pressure.

Collocationsquietly confident · a self-assured manner · remained composed under pressure

In a sentenceShe remained composed even when the questions turned hostile.

Shy names a fear, introverted names a preference. Swapping them is the classic near-synonym failure.

Collocationspainfully shy · quiet and reserved · a self-effacing manner

In a sentenceAs a child I was quiet and reserved around strangers.

Alone is a fact, lonely is a feeling. You can be one without the other, and the distinction is worth naming in Part 3.

Collocationssocially isolated · cut off from friends · a profound sense of isolation

In a sentenceElderly residents can feel cut off from the life of the town.

Jealous guards what you have, envious wants what someone else has. English keeps the two apart even when speech does not.

Collocationsenvious of her success · quietly resentful · green with envy

In a sentenceI was quietly envious of friends who travelled every summer.

For people and places both. A person stays composed, a neighbourhood is tranquil, and the sea before the storm is serene.

Collocationsstayed perfectly calm · a level-headed response · a tranquil setting

In a sentenceThe park is a tranquil escape from the traffic.