Achieving a high score in the IELTS General Training Writing Task 1 requires the effective use of formal, polite, and precise vocabulary. This task typically involves composing formal and semi-formal letters, which necessitate a strong command of language to ensure clarity, professionalism, and appropriateness. To help you in your preparation, we have curated a list of 100 essential academic words and phrases. Each word is accompanied by its definition and an example sentence to guide you in enhancing your writing skills for the IELTS General Training Writing Task 1.
A–C
Accept
Definition: To consent to receive or undertake something offered.
Example: I kindly accept your invitation to the annual conference.
Address
Definition: To speak to or direct attention to a particular issue or person.
Example: I am writing to address my concerns regarding the recent changes.
Advise
Definition: To offer suggestions about the best course of action.
Example: I would like to advise you on the upcoming inspection.
Apologize
Definition: To express regret for something that one has done wrong.
Example: I sincerely apologize for the inconvenience caused.
Arrange
Definition: To organize or make plans for an event or meeting.
Example: I would like to arrange a meeting at your earliest convenience.
Appreciate
Definition: To recognize the full worth or value of something.
Example: I appreciate your prompt response to my previous letter.
Assist
Definition: To help or support someone in the completion of a task.
Example: Could you please assist me in resolving this issue?
Attend
Definition: To be present at an event or meeting.
Example: I regret to inform you that I will be unable to attend the session.
Aware
Definition: Having knowledge or perception of a situation or fact.
Example: I was not aware of the policy changes until recently.
Cancel
Definition: To decide that an event will not take place.
Example: I am writing to request the cancellation of my subscription.
D–F
Delay
Definition: To make someone or something late or slow.
Example: I apologise for the delay in responding to your letter.
Deliver
Definition: To bring and hand over a letter, parcel, or ordered goods to the proper recipient.
Example: The package was not delivered as promised.
Describe
Definition: To give a detailed account in words.
Example: Please describe the problem in more detail.
Discuss
Definition: To talk about a topic in detail.
Example: I would like to discuss the terms of the agreement.
Disappointed
Definition: Sad or displeased because someone or something has failed to fulfill one’s hopes or expectations.
Example: I was disappointed with the quality of service.
Enclose
Definition: To place something in an envelope or parcel with something else.
Example: I have enclosed a copy of the receipt for your reference.
Ensure
Definition: To make certain that something shall occur or be the case.
Example: Please ensure all documents are submitted by Friday.
Extend
Definition: To cause to cover a larger area; make longer or wider.
Example: I would like to extend my gratitude for your support.
Explain
Definition: To make an idea, situation, or problem clear by describing it in more detail.
Example: Kindly explain the procedure in your next correspondence.
Facilitate
Definition: To make an action or process easy or easier.
Example: Your assistance will facilitate a smooth transition.
Feedback
Definition: Information about reactions to a product, a person’s performance of a task, etc., used as a basis for improvement.
Example: I would appreciate your feedback on my application.
File
Definition: To submit a formal charge or complaint.
Example: I wish to file a complaint regarding the recent service.
Formal
Definition: Done in accordance with rules of convention or etiquette; suitable for or constituting an official or important situation.
Example: This letter serves as a formal request for a refund.
Fulfil
Definition: To complete or carry out a task or duty.
Example: We are committed to fulfilling all our responsibilities.
G–I
Grant
Definition: To agree to give or allow something requested.
Example: I request that you grant me an extension.
Handle
Definition: To manage or deal with a situation or problem.
Example: Thank you for handling my query so efficiently.
Highlight
Definition: To emphasize or make prominent.
Example: I would like to highlight a few concerns I have.
Inform
Definition: To give someone facts or information; tell.
Example: I am writing to inform you of my recent move.
Inquire
Definition: To ask for information.
Example: I am writing to inquire about your holiday packages.
Investigate
Definition: To carry out research or study into a subject to discover facts or information.
Example: Please investigate the matter and update me accordingly.
J–N
Justify
Definition: To show or prove to be right or reasonable.
Example: Could you please justify the increase in fees?
Join
Definition: To become a member or participant.
Example: I would be pleased to join the workshop next week.
Locate
Definition: To discover the exact place or position of something.
Example: Kindly help me locate the missing parcel.
Maintain
Definition: To keep in existence or continuance; preserve.
Example: It is important to maintain high service standards.
Mention
Definition: To refer to something briefly and without going into detail.
Example: I would like to mention a few issues in this letter.
Modify
Definition: To make partial or minor changes to something.
Example: Could you modify the terms of our agreement?
Notify
Definition: To inform someone of something, typically in a formal manner.
Example: Please notify me once the shipment has been dispatched.
O-P
Offer
Definition: To present or proffer something for someone to accept or reject.
Example: I would like to offer some suggestions for improvement.
Organise
Definition: To arrange or coordinate activities or events systematically.
Example: I am happy to help organise the charity event.
Outline
Definition: To provide a general description or plan showing the essential features of something.
Example: Kindly outline the steps involved in the process.
Participate
Definition: To take part in an activity or event.
Example: I would be honoured to participate in the event.
Postpone
Definition: To delay or reschedule something to a later time or date.
Example: We need to postpone our meeting until next week.
Present
Definition: To be in attendance or to provide or display information.
Example: I will be present at the meeting as scheduled.
Provide
Definition: To give or supply something that is needed.
Example: Please provide detailed information about the policy.
Purchase
Definition: To buy something, usually through a formal transaction.
Example: I would like to purchase additional equipment.
Q–S
Question
Definition: To express doubt or to ask for clarification.
Example: I have a question regarding the contract terms.
Receive
Definition: To be given, presented with, or come into possession of something.
Example: I have not received the documents yet.
Recommend
Definition: To suggest something as beneficial or appropriate.
Example: I strongly recommend upgrading the existing system.
Refund
Definition: A repayment of money, typically due to dissatisfaction or a return.
Example: I would like to request a full refund.
Register
Definition: To officially record or enroll in an event, course, or system.
Example: I intend to register for the training session.
Reimburse
Definition: To repay money that someone has spent on your behalf.
Example: Please reimburse the travel expenses at your earliest convenience.
Remind
Definition: To cause someone to remember something.
Example: I am writing to remind you of our agreement.
Replace
Definition: To substitute something with another of the same kind.
Example: I would like to replace the faulty item.
Report
Definition: To formally inform someone about a particular situation.
Example: I wish to report a technical issue.
Request
Definition: To formally or politely ask for something.
Example: I am writing to request an urgent appointment.
Resolve
Definition: To settle or find a solution to a problem or dispute.
Example: Please help me resolve the matter promptly.
Respond
Definition: To reply or answer formally or promptly.
Example: Kindly respond to my inquiry as soon as possible.
Schedule
Definition: To arrange or plan an event to take place at a certain time.
Example: Could we schedule a meeting for next Tuesday?
Seek
Definition: To ask for or try to obtain something.
Example: I seek your advice on this matter.
State
Definition: To express clearly and formally in writing or speech.
Example: I would like to state the purpose of this letter clearly.
Submit
Definition: To formally present a document or request for consideration.
Example: I will submit the completed form tomorrow.
Suggest
Definition: To propose an idea or plan for consideration.
Example: May I suggest a more efficient alternative?
Support
Definition: To provide help, encouragement, or approval.
Example: Thank you for your continuous support and cooperation.
T–V
Thank
Definition: To express gratitude.
Example: I would like to thank you for your patience.
Transfer
Definition: To move something from one place, person, or account to another.
Example: Could you transfer the funds to my new account?
Understand
Definition: To grasp the meaning, significance, or cause of something.
Example: I hope you understand my concerns.
Update
Definition: To provide the latest information or changes.
Example: Please update me on the status of my application.
Verify
Definition: To confirm the accuracy or truth of something.
Example: Kindly verify the details provided.
Visit
Definition: To go to a place formally or socially.
Example: I plan to visit your office next week.
Volunteer
Definition: To offer to do something willingly without being paid.
Example: I am happy to volunteer for the community project.
W–Z (and bonus)
Welcome
Definition: To receive or accept something with pleasure or approval.
Example: I welcome any feedback you may have.
Withdraw
Definition: To remove oneself or cancel an application or request.
Example: I wish to withdraw my application.
Write
Definition: To compose and send a message or document.
Example: I am writing to express my dissatisfaction.
Agree
Definition: To accept or consent to something.
Example: I agree with the terms stated in your letter.
Allocate
Definition: To assign resources or duties for a particular purpose.
Example: Please allocate the resources accordingly.
Appear
Definition: To seem or give the impression of being something.
Example: The transaction appears to be incorrect.
Attach
Definition: To include or fasten a document with another.
Example: I have attached the necessary documents.
Benefit
Definition: To gain or receive advantage.
Example: This initiative will benefit the local community.
Clarify
Definition: To make something clearer or easier to understand.
Example: Could you please clarify the billing process?
Confirm
Definition: To state or show that something is definitely true or agreed upon.
Example: I am writing to confirm our appointment.
Final Notes
Using academic and formal vocabulary in your letters demonstrates a strong command of the English language and enhances your tone, especially when writing to authority figures, companies, or institutions. To excel in IELTS General Training Writing Task 1:
- Choose vocabulary that fits the context (formal, semi-formal, or informal).
- Use sentence structures that show grammatical range and accuracy.
- Be concise, polite, and clear in your message.
Expanding your vocabulary and becoming comfortable with these expressions will allow you to craft more professional and effective responses—essential for securing a Band 7 or higher.
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