Introduction
If you want to score Band 7 or higher in IELTS Writing Task 2, vocabulary is not just about big words — it’s about precise, topic-relevant, and natural language that shows control, variety, and tone awareness.
Examiners look for:
- “Flexibility and precision in word choice” (Band 8)
- “Less common lexical items with some awareness of style and collocation” (Band 7)
This page gives you:
- High-impact vocabulary by function and topic
- Example sentences in IELTS context
- Collocations and word combinations that score higher
- Internal links to support your IELTS learning journey
What Makes Vocabulary “High-Impact” in IELTS?
✅ It is accurate (used correctly in context)
✅ It is topic-relevant (aligned with the essay theme)
✅ It includes collocations (e.g., “government intervention” not just “government”)
✅ It avoids clichés and informal phrasing (e.g., “a lot of” → “a significant number of”)
Vocabulary by Function
1. Cause & Effect Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| due to | because of | Public dissatisfaction increased due to rising taxes. |
| result in | cause | Poor infrastructure can result in traffic congestion. |
| stem from | originate from | Youth crime often stems from social inequality. |
2. Problem–Solution Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| address (a problem) | to deal with or solve | The government must address the housing shortage. |
| implement (a policy) | to put into effect | Authorities implemented new safety regulations. |
| long-term solution | a fix that lasts | Education is the only long-term solution to poverty. |
3. Opinion & Argument Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| it is widely believed that | formal way to introduce a general view | It is widely believed that exercise prevents disease. |
| advocate (verb) | to support publicly | Many experts advocate for stricter emissions laws. |
| standpoint | point of view | From a legal standpoint, the ban is justified. |
4. Contrast Vocabulary
| Word / Phrase | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| nevertheless | in spite of that | The policy failed. Nevertheless, it was well-intentioned. |
| on the contrary | the opposite is true | Many argue it helps. On the contrary, it worsens the issue. |
| whereas | contrast between ideas | Urban areas are crowded, whereas rural regions are sparse. |
5. Formal Alternatives to Common Words
| Informal | High-Impact Alternative | Example |
|---|---|---|
| a lot of | a significant number of | A significant number of students prefer online learning. |
| very big | substantial / considerable | There was a substantial improvement in safety. |
| good | beneficial / advantageous | This policy is highly beneficial for low-income families. |
Common Collocations (Band 7–8 Level)
| Noun + Noun | Verb + Noun | Adjective + Noun |
|---|---|---|
| climate crisis | pose a threat | widespread poverty |
| government initiative | conduct research | public health concern |
| education reform | enforce regulations | long-term consequence |
Vocabulary in Use: Mini Paragraph
Government intervention is often necessary to address market failure, particularly in the case of environmental protection. Without appropriate regulations, companies may prioritize profit over sustainability, which can result in long-term ecological damage.
Internal SEO Links to Support This Page
- IELTS Vocabulary Lists by Topic
- IELTS Writing Task 2 Overview
- How to Write a Band 8 Thesis
- IELTS Grammar: Sentence Variety and Formal Tone
- Band 8 IELTS Essay Samples
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Want more high-impact vocabulary tools?
- Download: “IELTS Power Vocabulary – 50 Band 8 Words with Examples”
- Explore: Band 8 Essay Structures and Model Answers
- Learn: How to Collocate Like a Native – IELTS Grammar and Style Mastery
- Try: Our Vocabulary Boost Program – 30 Days to Precision & Power in Writing
This resource is part of the IELTS Power Writing system. Designed by a veteran IELTS instructor with over 25 years of experience, every lesson helps you write with clarity, control, and high-impact academic style.
IELTS 5 to 6 