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IELTS Vocabulary for Band 7
For band 7 vocabulary, examiners look for less common words used accurately and naturally, especially collocations. Below are useful words and phrases grouped by what they do, with example sentences and the mistakes to avoid.
The rule: accurate beats fancy
Lexical Resource is 25% of your Writing and Speaking score. Examiners reward words used precisely and naturally. A rare word used wrongly costs more than a common word used well. Learn words in phrases (collocations), not alone: "make a decision", not "do a decision".
Useful band 7 vocabulary by function
Instead of "good" or "bad"
| Word / phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| beneficial / advantageous | Remote work can be beneficial for parents. |
| detrimental / harmful | Too much screen time is detrimental to sleep. |
| worthwhile | Learning a second language is a worthwhile investment. |
| counterproductive | Banning phones in class may be counterproductive. |
Instead of "a lot" or "very"
| Word / phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| a significant number of | A significant number of graduates move abroad. |
| considerably | Prices have risen considerably since 2020. |
| substantial | There has been a substantial increase in online learning. |
| widespread | Mobile payments are now widespread in India. |
Cause and effect
| Word / phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| lead to / result in | Long commutes can lead to stress. |
| stem from | Many health problems stem from poor diet. |
| contribute to | Traffic contributes to air pollution. |
| as a consequence | As a consequence, fewer people walk to work. |
Giving opinions
| Word / phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| I would argue that | I would argue that this policy is unfair. |
| It seems to me that | It seems to me that both sides have a point. |
| I am inclined to believe | I am inclined to believe that education should be free. |
| On balance | On balance, the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. |
Contrast
| Word / phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| whereas | Cities offer jobs, whereas villages offer space. |
| nevertheless | The plan is expensive. Nevertheless, it is necessary. |
| on the other hand | On the other hand, some people prefer offices. |
| despite + noun | Despite the cost, many families choose private schools. |
Speaking: natural fillers that do not lose marks
| Word / phrase | Example |
|---|---|
| That's an interesting question. | Buys a second to think, naturally. |
| I've never really thought about it, but… | Honest and fluent. |
| Off the top of my head… | Signals a quick, natural answer. |
| What I mean is… | Useful for rephrasing without stopping. |
Collocations examiners like
- pose a threat · raise awareness · bridge the gap · meet the demand
- a heavy workload · a sharp rise · a gradual decline · a growing concern
- play a vital role · have a lasting impact · take into account · draw a conclusion
Words to use carefully
- "Nowadays" at the start of every essay. Overused; vary it or remove it.
- Memorised idioms ("it's raining cats and dogs") in Writing sound unnatural.
- "Moreover / Furthermore" in every paragraph. Overusing linkers lowers Coherence.
Want feedback on how you use words, not just which words? See IELTS writing coaching and how to score 7 in IELTS.
Frequently asked questions
How many words do I need for band 7?
There is no fixed number. Band 7 needs a range of less common words used with awareness of style and collocation, and only occasional errors.
Should I use idioms in IELTS?
In Speaking, natural idioms used correctly can help. In Writing, avoid informal idioms; use precise academic phrases instead.
What is the fastest way to improve vocabulary?
Learn words in phrases from what you read and listen to, then use them in your own sentences and get them corrected.