If you are planning to study abroad, live or apply for employment, you must demonstrate your English skills beforehand through the IELTS exam. This exam is a globally trusted English language test accepted by over 12000 organisations worldwide.
One of the common questions asked by test takers is: How do I improve my vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2? Generally, the test takers find Writing Task 2 more difficult than Writing Task 1. Achieving a high band score in this test requires a strong vocabulary apart from your writing skills. The vocabulary is one of the key marking criteria that accounts for 25% of your score.
To address this query, we have compiled a detailed overview of IELTS Writing Task 2 vocabulary. Read the article to know everything about vocabulary associated with IELTS Writing Task 2 for a perfect band 9 score!
IELTS Writing Task 2 Vocabulary
Most students find Writing Task 2 Vocabulary to be the most challenging due to time constraints and the kind of vocabulary that must be used. In this task, you are expected to write an essay of at least 250 words in about 40 minutes.
This task evaluates your ability to present and support your opinions or arguments clearly and logically with relevant examples. You need to address all parts of the question and offer a balanced discussion on the topic. By integrating a wide range of vocabulary in the essay, you can add a flair to your writing style and explain complex ideas in a simple way.
This section is important in terms of band score as it accounts for 66% of your overall score. You must be conversant with the marking scheme, which is divided into four essential parts:
1. Task achievement/response
This assesses how well you address the essay question. It includes the information provided, your perspective, and whether you answer all parts of the question.
2. Lexical Resource
This criterion assesses your vocabulary usage. Here, you should focus on using a wide range of vocabulary, ensuring proper spelling, implementation of collocations, word formation and the ability to paraphrase while avoiding repetition.
3. Cohesion & Coherence
This assesses the organisation of your essay and the logical flow of ideas. It involves the usage of linking words, pronouns, conjunctions, connectors, and paraphrasing skills.
4. Range of Grammar & Accuracy
This criterion assesses the range of vocabulary used. These include tenses, sentence construction(both simple and complex), punctuations, etc.
Below is the table showing how your band score is determined on the basis of these 4 marking criteria:
| Band | Vocabulary Usage | Response to the Task | Coherence & Cohesion | Range & Accuracy of Grammar |
| 0 | No attempt made | Did not attempt | Memorised response. | Zero attempt |
| 1 | Is only able to use a few words | The question & answers are not connected | Unable to communicate any form of message | Unable to form sentences at all |
| 2 | No command over word formation | The answer is not linked to the question | Unable to organise ideas properly | Memorises phrases and cannot form sentences properly |
| 3 | Minimal range of vocabulary and makes a lot of errors | -Has very limited ideas -Cannot address the task | -Unable to organise ideas logically -Usage of cohesive ideas is not able to link the ideas | -Wrong usage of punctuation -Inaccurate use of grammar changes the sentence’s meaning |
| 4 | -Has a minimal vocabulary. This might be repetitive and irrelevant-Has minimal control over spellings and the formation of words | -Attempts all parts of the task but cannot state the key features. The format may not be correct -Has not been able to state the purpose of the letter -It is repetitive, unclear, and often confuses features with details | -Ideas are not organised logically and can use minimal cohesive devices | -Infrequent usage of subordinate clauses -Punctuation is wrong most of the time, and errors are very dominant |
| 5 | -Has a limited vocabulary- -It makes errors that are noticeable | -Generally, it can address the tasks, although the format may be appropriate -Not able to present an overview and does not substantiate with data -Covers key features but not in an appropriate manner | -Able to present information but is not well-organised -Cohesive devices are either not used at all or overused and are repetitive | -Attempts complex sentences but are inaccurate in nature -Grammatical errors are frequent, and punctuation may be wrong |
| 6 | -Has a wide range of vocabulary-It uses less common vocabulary, but usage is inaccurate | -Able to present an overview of the task -Usage of tone is appropriate -Although the candidate can highlight critical features, there may be some irrelevant information | -Can organise information logically -Implements cohesive devices in between sentences and within | -Uses compound and simple sentences -Makes minor errors in grammar and punctuation |
| 7 | -Makes a wide range of vocabulary-Everyday lexical items are utilised, and one knows how to use collocation-May have errors in spelling, usage of words, and formation of words | -Meets all the requirements of the task -Can present a clear perspective on trends, changes, and developments(Academic) -Although the candidate can present critical features, this could be expanded. The tone is consistent (General) | -Able to organise ideas logically and progress can be noticed throughout -It is overused and under usage by cohesive devices | -Able to use compound sentences -Writes error-free sentences -Has good command over grammar and punctuation with few occasional errors |
| 8 | -Has a wide range of vocabulary and can convey accurate meaning -Uses unique lexical items, although mistakes may occur in using words and collocations -Infrequent errors occur in the spelling and formation of words | Covers all the requirements of the task and highlights the key features and primary points clearly | -Able to sequence ideas logically and chronologically -The candidate has a hold over paraphrasing and can manage cohesion well | -The majority of sentences do not have any errors -Very few mistakes occur and a wide range of structures |
| 9 | It uses a wide range of vocabulary and makes very minor errors | Caters to all the requirements of the given task | Can manage paragraphs well | -Able to structure their sentences with accuracy-Infrequent minor errors |
Furthermore, these criteria are marked from a band score of 1 to 9 in Writing Task 2 Vocabulary Band 9. Each of the criteria mentioned above accounts for 25% of the overall marks in Writing Task 2.
Also Read: 350+ Vocabulary words for IELTS: Difficult & New English Words List For 2024
Structure for IELTS Writing Task 2
While writing the essay in IELTS Writing Task 2, it’s crucial to follow a specific structure to organise your response clearly and coherently.
Follow the 4 paragraph model as given below:
- Introduction: This is the first paragraph of your essay. Here, you should clearly outline the main points of the essay. You can rephrase the statement in your own words to introduce your topic.
- Main body paragraph 1: This is the body of your essay where you should introduce the main idea of the question given. Provide details and reasoning to support your idea.
- Main body paragraph 2: This is the second part of your body paragraph. Here, you can present another idea or opinion related to the essay question. Offer further details and evidence to support this point.
- Conclusion: Here, you need to conclude the essay by summarising the key ideas from the body paragraphs.
Also Read: IELTS Writing Task 2: Most popular 50+ Essay Topics of 2024
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Vocabulary Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2
In order to achieve the highest band score in the IELTS Writing section, you must possess and display a wide range of vocabulary in your essays.
This section will introduce advanced vocabulary that you can use in your writing to ensure that the essays substantiate all the above-mentioned criteria of the assessment.
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
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Vocabulary for Introduction
A good introduction with the fundamental ideas can improve the band score. However, you need to use a wide range of vocabulary to score well in the lexical resource. Hence, we have underlined IELTS Writing Task 2 Vocabulary Band 9 that you can follow.
Useful vocabulary/phrases to start the essay:
- This essay will show that
- This essay will argue that
- This essay disagrees with that
- To examine this issue, this essay will talk about X and Y
- To discuss this issue, this essay will examine both this and that
- This essay will analyse
- It is undeniable that/ There is no denying that
- Many people opine that/ some people claim
- From my understanding of the situation
- From my perspective
- The following paragraphs discuss
- 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
- This essay will examine both
- Firstly, this essay will…and secondly, it will
- The following essay takes a look at both sides of the argument.
- My two cents go for…
- However, I strongly believe that…
- I wholeheartedly believe that this trend should be changed.
Examples:
- This essay will argue that celebrity culture has a malign influence on today’s youth. An introduction of this kind applies to opinion, double question, advantages and disadvantages.
- Many people opine that the rise of automation will lead to widespread job losses. An introduction of this kind applies to advantages and disadvantages, opinions, and agree/disagree.
- To discuss this issue, this essay will examine both the merits of increasing minimum wage and the potential drawbacks. An introduction of this kind applies to advantages and disadvantages and double question.
- I personally believe that stricter regulations on social media are necessary to protect privacy. An introduction of this kind applies to opinion and agree/disagree.
- From my perspective, online education offers significant advantages over traditional classroom learning. An introduction of this kind applies to opinion and agree/disagree.
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Vocabulary for Stating an Opinion
Vocabulary is an integral part of IELTS Writing Task 2 and you must grasp it. Moreover, in the essay, you need to put forth your opinion comprehensively. You can make use of these phrases:
- As far as I am concerned
- I believe that
- Admittedly
- My opinion on the matter is that
- I am convinced
- From my point of view
- I strongly disagree with the topic
- In my opinion/ point of view
- I think that
- It is often said that
- I understand that
- From my perspective
- It goes without saying that
- I agree
- I disagree
- I strongly agree
- I strongly disagree
- It appears that
- It may seem that
Examples:
- I believe that our parents teach us in every way, although it cannot be denied that teachers have a contribution to our lives.
- I am convinced that renewable energy is the key to solving our climate crisis.
- It is often said that hard work leads to success, but I believe that opportunity and timing play equally important roles in achieving one’s goals.
- I understand that some people may prefer traditional teaching methods, but I believe that incorporating technology can enhance the learning experience and better prepare students for the future.
- I strongly agree that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for overall well-being. It ensures that individuals have the time to relax and recharge, which ultimately increases productivity and job satisfaction.
Vocabulary for Main Paragraphs 2&3
In the body paragraph, you are required to present the main ideas or opinions to address the question. Here, you should use connecting or transition words. The transition should come naturally in an essay, or else it might seem very awkward in a sentence and might even change its meaning. You can use the listing as this sequentially presents the pointers. Besides, this can help to make the essay more appealing:
- First of all
- Second of all
- Finally
- Moreover
- Furthermore
- Additionally
- Likewise
- On top of that
- Thirdly
- Then
- Next
- After that
- And
- Again
- Also
- Besides
- In addition
- Consequently
- Other people think that
- Other people believe that
- On the other hand
- Apart from that
- Last but not least
- On the contrary
- In contrast
- Secondly
- To drive this point
- In support of the previous argument
- On the flip side
- However
- In continuation
- It is true that
- First
- Firstly
- First and foremost
- Initially
- To begin with
- To start with
- Let us take a look at
- It is worth considering
- In the first place
- Though it is true that
- Some people believe that
- Many people think that
- According to many
- Many support the view that
- On the one hand
- In my opinion
- My first argument
- To embark on
- It is commonly believed
Examples:
- Many people argue that investing in public transportation can reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Likewise, expanding cycling infrastructure can promote healthier lifestyles and further decrease the reliance on cars.
- While some advocate for increased government spending on healthcare, other people think that a focus on preventive measures and healthy lifestyles could be more effective in reducing overall medical costs.
- To drive this point, they often refer to case studies where countries have significantly reduced their energy bills and created jobs by investing in solar and wind power.
- It is worth considering that while technology can improve efficiency in many areas, it can also lead to job displacement. Balancing technological advancement with strategies for workforce transition is crucial.
- Many support the view that early childhood education is essential for long-term academic success. They argue that investing in quality preschool programs can lay a strong foundation for future learning and development.
Vocabulary for Giving an Example
Candidates must support their points with examples. However, it is essential to use a wide range of linkers such as:
- For example
- For instance
- An excellent example is
- The best example is
- To cite one example
- Take one instance
- In particular
- When it comes to
- As an example
- As an illustration
- As an instance
- By way of illustration
- By way of example
- To illustrate
- To paraphrase
- To show an example
- To give an example
- To cite an instance
- Take one example
- Like
- As
- That is
- Among others
- Such as
- Particularly
- Specifically
- Regarding
- Including/ To include
- Namely
- With respect to
- As far …. is concerned
- As a piece of evidence
- …could be a good/ideal example here
- A case
- As a model
Examples:
- To cite one example, the introduction of electric buses in cities like Shenzhen has led to a significant reduction in urban air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
- When it comes to improving student performance, implementing interactive and technology-based learning tools can enhance engagement and understanding.
- By way of example, countries such as Sweden and Denmark have successfully integrated extensive social welfare programs, demonstrating how such systems can lead to higher overall quality of life.”
- Many argue that renewable energy sources are crucial for sustainable development, particularly solar power, which has shown remarkable growth and efficiency in recent years.
- As a piece of evidence, recent studies have shown that employees who work flexible hours report higher job satisfaction and productivity, supporting the case for more adaptable work environments.
Vocabulary for Conclusion
Here, one must let the examiner know the conclusion of the essay. It should summarise the key pointers in the article. It is always beneficial to use these connectors:
- In conclusion
- To conclude
- To reiterate
- In summary
- To sum up
- In general
- To summarise
- In short
- Overall
- On the whole
- To draw the conclusion
- In a nutshell
- To elucidate
- Taking into consideration
- Taking everything into account
- In the end
- On balance
- That is to say
- To repeat in short
- To elucidate
- Taking everything into consideration
- Weighing both sides of the argument
- I would like to conclude by saying
- I would like to close this argument by
Examples:
- To conclude, investing in education is crucial for personal and societal development. It not only enhances individual skills and opportunities but also fosters economic growth and social stability.
- In general, adopting a healthier lifestyle can lead to improved well-being and productivity.
- On the whole, while online shopping offers convenience and a wider selection, it is essential to consider the potential drawbacks, such as reduced personal interaction and the environmental impact of packaging and delivery.
- Taking into consideration the benefits and drawbacks of remote work, it is clear that while it offers flexibility and reduces commuting time, it also presents challenges related to work-life balance and team collaboration.
- That is to say, investing in renewable energy not only addresses environmental concerns but also promotes economic development through job creation and technological innovation.
In addition, you can use these linkers to state reasons and consequences and present an idea:
- As a result
- Consequently
- Therefore
- Hence
- Eventually
- For this reason
- Due to
- Owing to
- As a consequence
- Research shows that
- With respect to
- Not only, but also
- In terms of
- Thus
- Needless to say
- Obviously
- Although
- To put it simply
- In other words
- Research has found that
- Numerous studies have found that
- There is ample evidence to suggest that
- There is proof that
- A recent study shows
- In addition
- On top of that
- Besides
- Another point worth noting is
- Another factor to consider is
- Also
- By adding to this
- Other aspect of the point is
- Another aspects are
- With respect to
- Furthermore
- Reason behind this is
- Has led to/ Has resulted in
- Thereby
- On the whole
Examples:
- Eventually, the increased use of electric vehicles will lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This shift will contribute to mitigating climate change and improving air quality in urban areas.
- Research shows that regular physical activity is linked to a decrease in mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
- Needless to say, proper time management is crucial for academic success.
- Furthermore, adopting a plant-based diet can lead to various health benefits, such as lower cholesterol levels and reduced risk of heart disease.
- Another aspect is the importance of digital literacy in the modern job market. As technology continues to evolve, having strong digital skills is essential for career advancement and staying competitive in various fields.
Read more about 60+ IELTS Essay Topics 2024: IELTS Writing Task 2 Samples & Tips.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Advanced vocabulary
Here is the list of advanced vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2 to enhance the sophistication of the essay and express your opinion more ardently.
Vocabulary to show the comparison:
- In the same way
- Likewise
- Similarly
- Like the previous point
- Similar to
- Also
- At the same time
- Just as
Vocabulary to add emphasis or additional information
- It goes without saying that
- Obviously
- Needless to say
- Although
- Thought
- Nonetheless
- Nevertheless
- Still
- Yet
- Must
- After all
- Even if
- Therefore
- Thus
Vocabulary for rephrasing or clarifying
- To put it simply
- To put it in another way
- That is to say
- In other words
- To make that simple
- In simple words
- Coming to the point
Vocabulary to generalise a statement
- Generally
- In general
- Overall
- All in all
- Basically
- As a rule
- Essentially
- On the whole
- All things considered
- In consideration with
Vocabulary to express condition
- If
- Provided that
- Because of that
- For this reason
- Unless
- So that
- In case
- Whether
- This
- In the event
- On condition
- Whether
Vocabulary to express agreement
- I believe that
- I agree
- I strongly believe that
- I strongly agree
- My opinion is
- In my opinion
- In my point of view
- My viewpoint
- As per my thought
- I quite agree that
- I completely agree that
- I totally agree with the given idea that
- I agree with the opinion
- I am quite inclined to the opinion
- I accept that
- I accept the fact that
- I am in agreement
- I consent that
- It is imperative to acknowledge
- It can be surmised that
- A compelling case can be made for
Vocabulary used to express disagreement and respond to arguments
- I disagree with the opinion
- I strongly disagree
- I completely disagree
- I totally disagree with the given idea
- I disagree with the statement
- I quite oppose the opinion that
- I totally don’t accept the fact
- My own opinion contradicts
- However, my opinion is different
- It is not unfounded to assert
- While this holds true to a certain extent
- It must be conceded that
- However, this notion is counterbalanced by
- Yet, it is pertinent to consider
Vocabulary to present 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
Vocabulary to show certainty
- Certainly
- Definitely
- No doubt
- Of course
- Doubtlessly
- Without any doubt
- Undoubtedly
Vocabulary to express time
- First/ Firstly
- Second/ Secondly
- Third/ Thirdly
- Last/ Lastly
- Then
- At the same time
- Meanwhile
- Since
- As soon as
- After this / that
- Before
- Afterwards
- During
- While
- Simultaneously
- When
Vocabulary to present relation
- Across/ across from
- Where
- In which
- To which
- From which
- Under
- Over
- Inside
- On top of
- Along
- Though
- As far as
- Northern, southern, eastern, western
- to the left/ on the left-hand side
- to the right/ on the right-hand side
- to the south
- in back
- behind the
- in front, in front of the
- in the middle
- adjacent
- midpoint halfway
- parallel, parallel to
- perpendicular to
- opposite
Vocabulary used for clarification
- Aspect
- Attributes
- Bases
- Basic kinds of
- Categories
- Characteristics
- Classes
- Classifications
- Classify
- Contradictory
- Contrasting
- Dissimilar
- Distinguishable
- Divide
- Factors
- Falls into
- Fundamental
- Important
- Insignificant
- Main kinds of
- Methods
- Opposing
- Opposite
- Origins
- Parts
- Primary
- Secondary
- Qualities
- Significant
- Similar
- Sources
- Types of
Unimportant
Vocabulary for describing the definition
- Aspect
- Category
- Characteristics
- Clarify
- Class
- Condition
- Define
- Definition
- Explain
- Explanation
- Form
- In other words
- Kind
- Method
- Type
Also Read: Dictation Words for IELTS: Practice and Preparation
Conclusion
Students must employ the correct vocabulary in IELTS Writing Task 2. The detailed guide on IELTS Writing Task 2 vocabulary will help students crack the exam and attain a band 9 score. Furthermore, they can choose to fund their studies abroad through Leap Scholar. They would receive crucial financial solutions and experts’ all-around assistance for a better study abroad experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What is the stipulated word limit for IELTS writing task 2?
Ans: Candidates are expected to write a minimum of 250 words. However, they should not write below the stipulated word count as they might face a penalty. Nevertheless, writing 20-30 extra is instead recommended in Writing Task 2 Vocabulary Band 9.
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Q. How can I get a good score in writing task 2 of IELTS?
Ans: To make Writing Task 2 more appealing to the examiner, candidates can make use of the following:
a. Linking words
b. Synonyms
c. Usage of simple and compound sentences -
Q. How can I get a 7.5 in IELTS writing task 2?
Ans: To attain a high band score, you must answer all parts of the task; use a wide range of vocabulary, ensure that there is a proper flow of ideas in the essay and organise them logically.
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Q. What are some education-related vocabulary words for IELTS writing task 2?
Ans: Some education-related vocabulary words for IELTS writing task 2 include:
-Academic
-Annihilate
-Bolster
-Catalyst
-Meticulous
-Pedagogy
-Reconcile
-Symbiotic -
Q. How can I improve my IELTS Writing Task 2 vocabulary?
Ans: There are many ways by which you can improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 vocabulary. This includes reading academic texts, using flashcards, learning word prefixes and suffixes, practising writing essays, and using online resources like vocabulary apps and websites.
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Q. Can I use contractions?
Ans: Yes, you can use contractions in IELTS Writing Task 2. Contractions are used in formal writing to convey a more natural tone. However, use them sparingly and appropriately, as excessive use can make your writing seem informal. Some examples of contraction words are I’ll, we’ll, it’s, etc.
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Q. Is it okay to write 400 words in IELTS writing task 2?
Ans: No, it’s not recommended to write 400 words in IELTS Writing Task 2. The recommended word count is 250-280 words for Task 2. If you write more than the recommended words, then it may result in a penalty. Also, writing more than recommended words can lead to irrelevant information in the essay.
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Q. How can I learn new words for IELTS writing Task 2?
Ans: You can learn new words for IELTS Writing Task 2 by reading books, articles, and online resources, using flashcards, practising active recall, and learning from context. Make a list of new words you come across every day and review them regularly.
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Q. Will using ‘high level’ or ‘academic’ words help me improve my score?
Ans: Using “high level” or “academic” words can help improve your score, but only if used appropriately and in context. Using complex words unnecessarily may seem pretentious and negatively affect your score. You can use these academic words only for IELTS Academic Writing Task 2. For the General Training Writing task, you should use words related to everyday context.
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Q. Can I use personal pronouns?
Ans: Yes, you can use personal pronouns like “I” and “my” in IELTS Writing Task 2, especially in opinion-based essays. However, using them sparingly and appropriately can make your writing seem less formal. As their excessive use can affect your IELTS scores.
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Q. What are strong vocabulary words?
Ans: Strong vocabulary words are words that accurately convey your intended meaning and are appropriate for the context. Examples of strong vocabulary words include: nuanced, meticulous, lucid, and profound. Using strong vocabulary words can enhance your writing and improve your IELTS score.
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