When aiming for a Band 7.0 or higher, it’s not just about avoiding simple words like “good” or “bad.” It’s about demonstrating lexical precision, flexibility, and sophistication. One way to do this is by mastering less common vocabulary skills — advanced word choices, expressions, and usage that show depth and nuance.
What Are Less Common Vocabulary Skills?
These refer to advanced vocabulary items, including academic words, nuanced synonyms, idiomatic expressions, and topic-specific terms, that go beyond high-frequency general English. They often include collocations, word forms, idioms, connotation-aware synonyms, and register-sensitive language.
Types, Definitions, and Examples
1. Academic Vocabulary
- Definition: Formal words commonly used in academic texts and essays.
- Example: “The prevalence of obesity is increasing globally.”
- Use: Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3.
2. Precise Synonyms
- Definition: Synonyms that carry slight differences in tone or formality.
- Example: “Support” → “advocate”, “help” → “facilitate”, “think” → “speculate”
- Use: To express ideas more accurately and formally.
3. Topic-Specific Lexis
- Definition: Vocabulary tailored to specific topics like health, education, or the environment.
- Example: “Carbon footprint”, “public expenditure”, “academic performance”
- Use: Essay writing and complex discussion answers in Speaking.
4. Collocations
- Definition: Words that naturally go together.
- Example: “Make a decision”, “pose a threat”, “reach a consensus”
- Use: Improve fluency and naturalness in writing and speaking.
5. Nominal Forms (Nominalization)
- Definition: Using nouns instead of verbs or adjectives for formality.
- Example: “Pollution reduction is vital.” instead of “Reducing pollution is vital.”
- Use: Writing Task 2.
6. Idiomatic Expressions and Metaphors
- Definition: Natural-sounding phrases used by native speakers.
- Example: “A double-edged sword”, “the tip of the iceberg”, “a gray area”
- Use: IELTS Speaking to sound more natural and fluent.
7. Connotation and Tone Awareness
- Definition: Choosing vocabulary based on implied meaning or tone.
- Example: “Assertive” (positive) vs. “aggressive” (negative)
- Use: Writing Task 2 arguments or Speaking discussions.
8. Phrasal Verbs (Formal Replacements)
- Definition: Using single-word formal verbs in Writing.
- Example: “Bring about” → “cause”, “look into” → “investigate”
- Use: Formal Writing vs Informal Speaking.
9. Word Family and Morphology
- Definition: Using different forms of the same word.
- Example: “Conclude, conclusion, conclusive, conclusively”
- Use: To maintain variety without repetition.
10. Register Appropriateness
- Definition: Choosing vocabulary that suits the context (formal vs informal).
- Example: “Children spend too much time on gadgets” → “Excessive screen time among minors”
- Use: Formality in writing, flexibility in speaking.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
| Mistake | Problem | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Many people think money is important. | Too simple/general | A considerable proportion of the population regards financial stability as essential. |
| Pollution makes the environment bad. | Vague, informal | Pollution deteriorates environmental quality. |
| He has a good job. | Basic vocabulary | He holds a prestigious position. |
| Kids nowadays use tech a lot. | Informal, vague | Contemporary youth exhibit extensive reliance on digital devices. |
Dos and Don’ts
DOs:
- Learn topic-specific vocabulary for common IELTS themes (health, education, environment).
- Use collocations and synonyms appropriately.
- Expand your word families to avoid repetition.
- Practice using idioms in IELTS Speaking, not Writing.
DON’Ts:
- Don’t overuse thesaurus synonyms without understanding their context.
- Don’t use idioms or phrasal verbs in academic essays.
- Don’t memorize word lists without sentence practice.
- Don’t mix informal and formal vocabulary in Writing Task 2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much advanced vocabulary should I use?
A: Enough to show range and precision — around 20–30% of your word choice should reflect higher-level vocabulary.
Q: Can using difficult words lower my score?
A: Yes — if used incorrectly. Precision is more important than complexity.
Q: Is it okay to repeat words?
A: Occasional repetition is fine, but use paraphrasing and synonyms to show flexibility.
Top Strategies for IELTS Vocabulary Success
- Use a Vocabulary Notebook – Organize by topic, type (noun/verb/adjective), and collocation.
- Read Band 9 Sample Essays – Highlight less common words and phrases.
- Practice Paraphrasing Daily – Rewrite common sentences with advanced synonyms.
- Use Vocabulary in Context – Write your own sample essays or practice answers using new words.
- Record and Review Speaking – Evaluate your vocabulary use and range.
Sample Sentences Using Less Common Vocabulary
- The surge in urban migration has exacerbated housing shortages.
- A sedentary lifestyle is increasingly associated with non-communicable diseases.
- Renewable energy sources offer a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
- Cultural assimilation poses both opportunities and challenges for migrants.
- Education reform remains a contentious issue among policymakers.
Final Thoughts
Mastering less common vocabulary is not about sounding fancy — it’s about being clear, specific, and academic. Whether you’re writing an essay or discussing social issues in Part 3 of the Speaking test, your vocabulary choices reflect your control of English. By learning words in context and practicing consistently, you’ll be well on your way to a Band 7.0 or higher.
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