Exam prep

IELTS vocabulary words

On IELTS, a quarter of your Writing and Speaking score comes from Lexical Resource — your range, accuracy, and ability to use less common vocabulary naturally. Memorizing rare words is not enough; using them precisely and in the right collocations is what counts. Learn these useful words with examples, and practice them in context.

Read the full IELTS vocabulary guide

39 IELTS words to know

How to memorize IELTS vocabulary

Don't cram a list the night before. Learn each word with an example sentence so you understand it in context, then use spaced repetition to review it right before you'd forget. That's exactly how Vocaby works: swipe through words with audio and examples, and the app schedules each one for review at the perfect moment so it lasts through test day.

Frequently asked questions

What vocabulary do I need for IELTS band 7?
Band 7 on Lexical Resource needs a flexible range of vocabulary, including some less common words and collocations, used with only occasional errors. Accuracy and natural usage matter more than rare words, so learn words with example sentences and practice them.
Does using big words improve my IELTS score?
Not on its own. Examiners reward precise, natural, well-collocated vocabulary. A common word used correctly beats a rare word used awkwardly, so focus on using words accurately and in the right context rather than showing off.
How do I expand my IELTS vocabulary?
Build topic vocabulary (environment, education, technology, health) with collocations, learn each word with an example, and review with spaced repetition. Recording your own example sentences helps you use new words naturally under exam pressure.

Study IELTS words that actually stick.

Vocaby pairs every word with audio, examples, and spaced repetition — free to start.