Topics covered
Learning vocabulary is the first step to practicing for the IELTS exam, especially for the Speaking section. Enhancing your vocabulary with different topics will help you easily remember and apply it in all parts of the exam. Let IDP help you explore in detail the IELTS Speaking vocabulary set of common topics as well as effective learning methods in the following article!
Currently, there is a lot of information about vocabulary to effectively review IELTS, however, to achieve the best results, you need to learn systematically and selectively. In addition, each person will have a different way of learning vocabulary, but it is best to choose vocabulary according to common IELTS Speaking test topics.
Complete English vocabulary by topic
Usually, in the Holiday topic, the examiner will ask you whether you prefer to travel alone or in a group, and what your last trip was. Here are some example questions:
Do you like to travel alone or in a group?
What do most people do during their holidays in your country? Why?
IELTS vocabulary on Holiday and travel
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Inbound travel (n) Inbound tourism (n) | /ˈɪnbaʊnd ˈtrævl/ /ˈɪnbaʊnd ˈtʊərɪzəm/ |
Outbound travel (n) Outbound tourism (n) | /ˈaʊtbaʊnd ˈtrævl/ /ˈaʊtbaʊnd ˈtʊərɪzəm/ |
Leisure travel (n) | /ˈleʒə(r) ˈtrævl/ |
Ecotourism (n) | /ˈiːkəʊtʊərɪzəm/ |
Short break (n) | / ʃɔːt breɪk/ |
Twin room (n) | /twɪn ˈruːm/ |
Triple room (n) | /ˈtrɪp.əl ˈruːm/ |
Single room (n) | /ˌsɪŋ.ɡəl ˈruːm/ |
Double room (n) | /ˌdʌb.əl ˈruːm/ |
Destination (n) | /ˌdes.tɪˈneɪ.ʃən/ |
Plane (n) | /pleɪn/ |
Promotion airfare (n) | /prəˈməʊʃn/ /ˈeəfeə(r)/ |
Rail schedule (n) | /reɪl ˈʃedʒ.uːl/ |
New Year, welcome the New Year with IELTS IDP with a very "cool" vocabulary set ️
Regarding the family topic, you will need to provide information from the simplest sentences such as where your family lives, how many members,... Below are a few example questions:
Tell me something about your family.
How much time do you manage to spend with members of your family?
IELTS Speaking Vocabulary on Family
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Extended family (n) | /ɪkˌstendɪd ˈfæməli/ |
Nuclear family (n) | /ˌnjuːkliə ˈfæməli/ |
Single parent (n) | /ˈsɪŋɡl ˈpeərənt/ |
Offspring (n) | /ˈɒfsprɪŋ/ |
Orphan (n) | /ˈɔːfn/ |
Bring up (v) | /brɪŋ ʌp/ |
Upbringing (n) | /ˈʌpbrɪŋɪŋ/ |
Child-rearing (n) | /tʃaɪld ˈrɪərɪŋ/ |
Immediate family (n) | /ɪˈmiːdiət ˈfæməli/ |
Adolescence (n) | /ˌædəˈlesns/ |
Close-knit (adj) | /ˌkləʊs ˈnɪt/ |
Formative year (n) | /ˈfɔːmətɪv jɪə(r)/ |
Parental support (n) | /pəˈrentl səˈpɔːt/ |
Dual Income, No Kids (DINK) | /ˈdjuːəl ˈɪnkʌm nəʊ kɪd/ |
Financial stability (n) | /faɪˈnænʃl stəˈbɪləti/ |
Aspects in the topic of Relationships are extremely diverse. Therefore, IELTS examiners can ask questions related to friendships, childhood, respect for elders, etc. Common questions such as Who is that person, how do you know him/her, etc., for example:
What do you like about your close friend?
Is it important to keep in contact with our friends when we’re in a relationship?
Vocabulary for IELTS Speaking by topic Relationships
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Keep in touch (n) | /kiːp ɪn tʌtʃ / |
Lose touch with (v) | /luːz tʌtʃ wɪð/ |
Professional relationship (n) | /prəˈfeʃənl rɪˈleɪʃnʃɪp/ |
Business partner (n) | /ˈbɪz.nɪs/ /ˈpɑːt.nər/ |
Long-lasting friendship (n) | /ˌlɒŋ ˈlɑːstɪŋ ˈfrendʃɪp/ |
Distant relative (n) | /ˈdɪstənt ˈrelətɪv/ |
Acquaintance (n) | /əˈkweɪntəns/ |
Close friends (n) | /kləʊz frend/ |
Colleague (n) | /ˈkɒliːɡ/ |
Mistress (n) | /ˈmɪs.trəs/ |
Engagement (n) | /ɪnˈɡeɪdʒ.mənt/ |
Break-up (n) | /ˈbreɪkˌʌp/ |
Grow apart (v) | /ɡrəʊ əˈpɑːt/ |
A circle of friend (n) | /ə ˈsɜrkəl ʌv frɛnd/ |
Soulmate (n) | /soʊl meɪt/ |
At the beginning of the Technology topic, candidates will often receive questions related to commonly used technology items, frequency of use, design, etc. The examiner will expect a description of the device or tool. Ending with the uses or feelings when using them will help your test be more complete. You can refer to the questions below:
Describe an item of technology you have that is very important.
Do you enjoy using technology?
Common IELTS Speaking vocabulary on Technology
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Gadget (n) | /ˈɡædʒɪt/ |
Internet security (n) | /ˈɪntənet sɪˈkjʊərəti/ |
Technophile (n) | /ˈteknəʊfaɪl/ |
Social media (n) | /ˌsəʊʃl ˈmiːdiə/ |
Wireless hotspot (n) | /ˈwaɪələs ˈhɒtspɒt/ |
Forward (the message) (adv) | /ˈfɔːwəd ðə ˈmesɪdʒ/ |
Technological advance (n) | /ˌteknəˈlɒdʒɪkl ədˈvɑːns/ |
Cutting-edge (a) | /ˌkʌtɪŋ ˈedʒ/ |
Computer age (n) | /kəmˈpjuːtə(r) eɪdʒ/ |
Boot up (v) | /buːt ʌp/ |
Video conferencing (n) | /ˈvɪdiəʊ ˈkɒnfərənsɪŋ/ |
High-spec (laptop) (a) | /haɪ spek/ |
Browse (the Internet) (v) | /braʊz ðə ˈɪntənet/ |
Face-to-face meeting (n) | /ˌfeɪs tə ˈfeɪs ˈmiːtɪŋ/ |
“Describe the first outdoor game you participated in?”, “What sports do you play to stay healthy?”,... are common questions in the Sports topic. Candidates should answer in order of the name of the sport, frequency of play, who you play with, when you play, what equipment you need,... So have you prepared questions and related vocabulary on this topic? Please refer to the information below.
Which is the most popular sport in your country?
What kinds of sports would you like to try in the future?
IELTS Speaking Vocabulary on Sport
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Aquatic sport (n) | /əˈkwætɪk spɔːt/ |
Sport event (n) | /spɔːt ɪˈvent/ |
Governing body (n) | /ˈɡʌvənɪŋ ˈbɒdi/ |
The first half (n) | /ðə fɜːst hɑːf/ |
The second half (n) | /ðə ˈsekənd hɑːf/ |
Host country (n) | /həʊst ˈkʌntri/ |
Friendly match (n) | /ˈfrendli mætʃ/ |
Break the record | /breɪk ðə ˈrekɔːd/ |
Gold medal (n) | /ɡəʊld ˈmedl/ |
Silver medal (n) | /ˈsɪlvə(r) ˈmedl/ |
Bronze medal (n) | /brɒnz ˈmedl/ |
Runner-up (n) | /'rʌnə ʌp/ |
Semi-final (n) | /semi 'fainl/ |
Solidarity (n) | /,sɔli'dæriti/ |
Food is a popular topic in IELTS Speaking tests. You will introduce to the examiners by presenting questions such as: What is the famous dish in your hometown?, What is your diet like?... Let's introduce the basic order of the dish name, ingredients, preparation method, your feelings after enjoying them,... by combining the vocabulary listed below.
Do you often do any cooking?
Who taught you how to cook?
Complete vocabulary for IELTS Speaking on the topic of cuisine
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Food intake (n) | /fuːd ˈɪnteɪk/ |
Home-cooked food (n) | /həʊm kʊk fuːd/ |
Perishable (a) | /ˈperɪʃəbl/ |
Imperishable (a) | /ɪmˈperɪʃəbl/ |
Preservative (a) | /prɪˈzɜːvətɪv/ |
Additive (a) | /ˈædətɪv/ |
Takeaway food (n) | /ˈteɪkəweɪ fuːd/ |
Mouth-watering (a) | /ˈmaʊθ wɔːtərɪŋ/ |
Delectable (a) | /dɪˈlektəbl/ |
Insatiable (a) | /ɪnˈseɪʃəbl/ |
Famished (a) | /ˈfæmɪʃt/ |
Condiment (n) | /ˈkɒndɪmənt/ |
Gourmet food (n) | /ˈɡʊəmeɪ fuːd/ |
Plant-based (a) | /ˈplɑːnt beɪst/ |
Eye-catching (a) | ˈaɪ kætʃɪŋ/ |
Flavour (n) | /ˈfleɪvə(r)/ |
Vegetarian (n) | /ˌvedʒəˈteəriən/ |
Education is a familiar topic for IELTS learners. At the beginning, the examiners expect information about the school, your favorite subjects, and the methods you often use to study effectively. You need to use IELTS Speaking vocabulary to fully present information about this topic by listing the name of the school, major, and feelings when studying at that school. Here, IDP has provided some questions and vocabulary below.
Is there anything that you dislike about your school?
What will you do after graduation?
IELTS speaking test vocabulary by educational topics
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Prestigious university (n) | /preˈstɪdʒəs ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsəti/ |
Autonomous (a) | /ɔːˈtɒnəməs/ |
Self-reliant (a) | /ˌself rɪˈlaɪənt/ |
Essential skill (n) | /ɪˈsenʃl skɪl/ |
Emotionally stable (n) | /ɪˈməʊʃənəli ˈsteɪbl/ |
Rewarding (a) | /rɪˈwɔːdɪŋ/ |
Unwind (v) | /ˌʌnˈwaɪnd/ |
Eager beaver (n) | /ˈiːɡə(r) ˈbiːvə(r)/ |
Bookworm (n) | /ˈbʊkwɜːm/ |
Higher education (n) | /ˈhaɪə(r) ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃn/ |
Compulsory (a) | /kəmˈpʌlsəri/ |
Private education (n) | /ˈpraɪvət skuːl/ |
Curriculum (n) | /kəˈrɪkjələm/ |
Postgraduate (n) | /ˌpəʊstˈɡrædʒuət/ |
Inquisitive (n) | /ɪnˈkwɪzətɪv/ |
Campus (n) | /ˈkæmpəs/ |
In the Work topic, the examiner may ask you to describe your dream job. To get a high band score, you should use a variety of vocabulary and refer to the questions that have been systematized by IDP:
What kind of job do you do?
Why did you choose to work in this field?
Common IELTS Speaking Vocabulary on Work Topics
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Rewarding (a) | /rɪˈwɔːdɪŋ/ |
Dynamic (a) | /daɪˈnæmɪk/ |
Appointment (n) | /əˈpɔɪntmənt/ |
Contract (n) | /ˈkɒntrækt/ |
Redundancy (n) | /rɪˈdʌndənsi/ |
Qualification (n) | /ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ |
Maternity leave (n) | /məˈtɜːnəti liːv/ |
Promotion (n) | /prəˈməʊʃn/ |
Reception (n) | /rɪˈsepʃn/ |
Trainee (n) | /ˌtreɪˈniː/ |
Subsidised money (n) | /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz ˈmʌni/ |
Fatigue (n) | /fəˈtiːɡ/ |
Resignation (n) | /ˌrezɪɡˈneɪʃn/ |
Job swap (v) | /dʒɒb swɒp/ |
In the Health topic, the exainer expects to hear more about what you do to stay healthy and fit, talk about a time you were seriously ill, etc. In each situation, you should fully link relevant information and don't forget to explain and illustrate ways to maintain health. Below are a few examples compiled by IDP.
What do you do to keep fit?
How important is a healthy lifestyle for you?
IELTS Speaking Vocabulary on Health Topics
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Infection (n) | /ɪnˈfekʃn/ |
Epidemic (n) | /ˌepɪˈdemɪk/ |
Diagnose (v) | /ˈdaɪəɡnəʊz/ |
Precaution (n) | /prɪˈkɔːʃn/ |
Deterioration (n) | /dɪˌtɪəriəˈreɪʃn/ |
Rampant (a) | /ˈræmpənt/ |
Disorder (n) | /dɪsˈɔːdə(r)/ |
Nutrient (n) | /ˈnjuːtriənt/ |
Wound (n) | /wuːnd/ |
Dizziness (n) | /ˈdɪzinəs/ |
Digestive disorder (n) | /daɪˌdʒestɪv dɪsˈɔːdə(r)/ |
Food poisoning (n) | /fuːd ˈpɔɪzənɪŋ/ |
Dose (of medicine) (n) | /dəʊs/ |
Prescribe (v) | /prɪˈskraɪb/ |
In the Books and Films topic, the examiner will start with simple questions such as do you like watching movies at the cinema/reading books, what is your favorite movie/book, etc. In such questions, you should tell as much as possible about the name, main content, when you watched it and explain why you like it. With the illustrative questions and vocabulary summarized below, IDP believes that you will practice your presentation very well.
Do you like watching movies?
What is your favourite kind of book?
Common IELTS Speaking vocabulary on books and movies
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Ebook (n) | /ˈiː bʊk/ |
Hardback (n) | /ˈhɑːdbæk/ |
Paperback (n) | /ˈpeɪpəbæk/ |
Fairy tale (n) | /ˈfeəri teɪl/ |
Reduce stress | /rɪˈdjuːs stres/ |
Reading comprehension (n) | /ˈriːdɪŋ ˌkɒmprɪˈhenʃn/ |
Blockbuster (n) | /ˈblɒkbʌstə(r)/ |
Plot (n) | /plɒt/ |
Sci-fi (n) | /ˈsaɪ faɪ/ |
Soundtrack (n) | /ˈsaʊndtræk/ |
Antagonist (n) | /ænˈtæɡənɪst/ |
Protagonist (n) | /prəˈtæɡənɪst/ |
Sequel (n) | /ˈsiːkwəl/ |
Tear-jerker (n) | /ˈtɪə dʒɜːkə(r)/ |
For IELTS Speaking, the question about the topic of house is probably the easiest. You can describe the location of the house, what it looks like, and explain why you like it. Diversify your vocabulary in the Accommodation topic that IDP has compiled below.
What kind of housing/ accommodation do you live in?
Which room does your family spend most of the time in?
IELTS Speaking vocabulary system on the topic Accommodation
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Fully-furnished flat (n) | /ˈfʊli ˈfɜːnɪʃt flæt/ |
Property (n) | /ˈprɒpəti/ |
Apartment block (n) | /əˈpɑːtmənt blɒk/ |
Back garden (n) | /bæk ˈɡɑːdn/ |
Hall of residence (n) | /hɔːl əv ˈrezɪdəns/ |
Home comforts (n) | /həʊm ˈkʌmfət/ |
Permanent address (n) | /ˈpɜːmənənt əˈdres/ |
Single room (n) | /ˈsɪŋɡl ruːm/ |
Spacious room (n) | /ˈspeɪʃəs ruːm/ |
The suburbs (n) | /ðə ˈsʌbɜːb/ |
Roomy (a) | /ˈruːmi/ |
Minimalist (a) | /ˈmɪnɪməlɪst/ |
Touch (v) | /tʌtʃ/ |
Amenity (n) | /əˈmiːnəti/ |
Fashion is one of the familiar topics in IELTS Speaking. Usually, the examiner may ask you to describe a piece of clothing that you have received as a gift. Introduce the clothing, describe its features, how it is used, and explain how you feel when you receive it. The vocabulary and sample questions below will help you complete this topic well.
What type of clothes do you like to wear?
Describe clothes you wear on special occasions.
Common vocabulary on fashion topics in IELTS Speaking
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Fashion trend (n) | /ˈfæʃn trend/ |
High-street fashion (n) | /ˈhaɪ striːt ˈfæʃn/ |
Luxurious fashion (n) | /lʌɡˈʒʊəriəs ˈfæʃn/ |
Fashion-conscious (a) | /ˈfæʃn kɒnʃəs/ |
Old-fashioned (a) | /ˌəʊld ˈfæʃnd/ |
Attire (n) | /əˈtaɪə(r)/ |
Flatter (v) | /ˈflætə(r)/ |
Trend-setter (n) | /ˈtrendsetə(r)/ |
Flamboyant (a) | /flæmˈbɔɪənt/ |
Cardigan (n) | /ˈkɑːdɪɡən/ |
Tights (n) | /taɪts/ |
Overcoat (n) | /ˈəʊvəkəʊt/ |
Trousers (n) | /ˈtraʊzə(r)/ |
Pullover (n) | /ˈpʊləʊvə/ |
Anorak (n) | /ˈænəræk/ |
The examiner will likely ask you to describe a good trait about yourself. For an effective presentation, refer to the sample questions and vocabulary list below.
ang in IELTS Speaking
How would you describe yourself?
Are you similar or different to your brother(s)/sister(s)?
Các từ vựng IELTS Speaking xoay quanh chủ đề Personality
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Strict (a) | /strɪkt/ |
Persistent (a) | /pəˈsɪstənt/ |
Feminine (a) | /ˈfemənɪn/ |
Extrovert (n) | /ˈek.strə.vɜːt/ |
Introvert (n) | /ˈɪn.trə.vɜːt/ |
Talkative (a) | /ˈtɔːkətɪv/ |
Sociable (a) | /ˈsəʊʃəbl/ |
Thoughtful (a) | /ˈθɔːtfl/ |
Aggressive (a) | /əˈɡresɪv/ |
Ambitious (a) | /æmˈbɪʃəs/ |
Bad-tempered (a) | /ˌbæd ˈtempəd/ |
Self – centred (a) | /ˌselfˈsen.təd/ |
Self – effacing (a) | /ˌself.ɪˈfeɪ.sɪŋ/ |
Trustworthy (a) | /ˈtrʌstˌwɜː.ði/ |
In the business topic, you may be asked to describe a business that has impressed you. Here, you should tell us the name of the business, where it is located, who owns it, and why you think it will be successful. The questions and vocabulary have been provided by IDP below.
What kind of business are you interested in?
Describe a family business you know.
Từ vựng IELTS Speaking chủ đề Business
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Budget (n) | /ˈbʌdʒɪt/ |
Revenue (n) | /ˈrevənjuː/ |
Profit (n) | /ˈprɒfɪt/ |
Promotion (n) | /prəˈməʊʃn/ |
Competition (n) | /ˌkɒmpəˈtɪʃn/ |
Bankrupt (a) | /ˈbæŋkrʌpt/ |
Service (n) | /ˈsɜːvɪs/ |
Productivity (n) | /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ |
Social responsibility (n) | /ˈsəʊʃl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ |
Economy (n) | /ɪˈkɒnəmi/ |
Entrepreneur (n) | /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜː(r)/ |
Face potential collapse | /feɪs pəˈtenʃl kəˈlæps/ |
Specialise (v) | /ˈspeʃəlaɪz/ |
Cash flow (n) | /kæʃ fləʊ/ |
Appearance is a familiar and practical topic. Refer to the vocabulary below to describe the examiner's request in the most complete way. Make your speech more vivid by presenting naturally and combining synonyms.
Do you look like any other people in your family?
What does your best friend look like?
Từ vựng IELTS xoay quanh chủ đề ngoại hình
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Fair-skinned (a) | /feər skɪnd/ |
Cropped hair (n) | /krɒp heər/ |
Overweight (a) | /ˌəʊ.vəˈweɪt/ |
Well built (n) | /ˌwel ˈbɪlt/ |
Slender figure (n) | /ˈslen.dərˈfɪɡ.ər/ |
Dishevelled hair (n) | /dɪˈʃev.əld heər/ |
Slim figure (n) | /slɪm ˈfɪɡə(r)/ |
Good-looking (a) | /ˌɡʊd ˈlʊkɪŋ/ |
Scruffy (a) | /ˈskrʌf.i/ |
Youthful appearance (n) | /ˈjuːθfl əˈpɪərəns/ |
Complexion (a) | /kəmˈplekʃn/ |
Pointed face (n) | /ˈpɔɪntɪd feɪs/ |
Fair hair (n) | /feər heər/ |
Get done up (v) | /ɡet dʌn ʌp/ |
Town and City is one of the popular topics in IELTS Speaking. Examiners often appreciate your ability to combine IELTS Speaking vocabulary that describes the area, with a natural and engaging way of presenting. Let's study with IDP the vocabulary for IELTS Speaking related to this topic to fully express the beauty of the city you have been to.
Please describe your hometown a little.
Do you get many tourists visiting your area?
System of common vocabulary in the topic of cities
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Downtown (n) | /ˌdaʊnˈtaʊn/ |
Shopping mall (n) | /ˈʃɒpɪŋ mɔːl/ |
Pollution-free (n) | /pəˈluːʃn friː/ |
Sightseeing (n) | /ˈsaɪtsiːɪŋ/ |
Breathtaking (a) | /ˈbreθteɪkɪŋ/ |
Infrastructure (n) | /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ |
Inhabitant (n) | /ɪnˈhæbɪtənt/ |
Megacity (n) | /ˈmeɡəsɪti/ |
Overcrowding (a) | /ˌəʊvəˈkraʊdɪŋ/ |
Transportation (n) | /ˌtrænspɔːˈteɪʃn/ |
Uptown (a) | /ˌʌpˈtaʊn/ |
City skyline (n) | /ˈsɪti ˈskaɪlaɪn/ |
High-rise flat (n) | /ˈhaɪ raɪz flæt/ |
No-go area (n) | /ˌnəʊ ˈɡəʊ eəriə/ |
Music is a broad topic because you may be asked to describe a favorite musical instrument, a concert, or your favorite song. You should pay attention to vocabulary that describes the parts of musical instruments to be confident in the test. Therefore, IDP has provided you with sample questions and a list of vocabulary related to the topic of music so that you can prepare best.
What's your favourite kind of music?
Do you think music will change in the future?
Vocabulary to help you navigate the music topic
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Beat (n) | /biːt/ |
Harmony (n) | /ˈhɑːməni/ |
Lyrics (n) | /ˈlɪrɪk/ |
Melody (n) | /ˈmelədi/ |
Duet (n) | /djuˈet/ |
Classic (n) | /ˈklæsɪk/ |
Symphony (n) | /ˈsɪmfəni/ |
Folk (n) | /fəʊk/ |
Band (n) | /bænd/ |
Composer (n) | /kəmˈpəʊzə(r)/ |
Audience (n) | /ˈɔːdiəns/ |
Performance (n) | /pəˈfɔːməns/ |
Stage (n) | /steɪdʒ/ |
Recording studio (n) | /rɪˈkɔːdɪŋ ˈstjuːdiəʊ/ |
In the weather topic, the examiner expects you to combine words that describe the weather mainly in Vietnam in many aspects, or its effects on life. To present fully and accurately, you should refer to the IELTS Speaking vocabulary questions and vocabulary on the Weather topic below.
What is the typical weather in Vietnam like?
Do you think the weather is more important to people who play sports?
Common IELTS vocabulary on the topic of weather
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Windy (a) | /ˈwɪndi/ |
Breeze (a) | /briːz/ |
Gloomy (a) | /ˈɡluːmi/ |
Cloudy (a) | /ˈklaʊdi/ |
Foggy (a) | /ˈfɒɡi/ |
Humid (a) | /ˈhjuːmɪd/ |
Mild (a) | /maɪld/ |
Lighting (n) | /ˈlaɪtɪŋ/ |
Drizzle (n) | /ˈdrɪzl/ |
Hail (n) | /heɪl/ |
Thunderstorm (n) | /ˈθʌndəstɔːm/ |
Weather forecast (n) | ˈweðə(r) ˈfɔːkɑːst/ |
Damp (a) | /dæmp/ |
Rain-storm (n) | /ˈreɪnstɔːm/ |
Shopping is one of the most familiar topics for IELTS students. Diversify your test by using a variety of sentence structures, vocabulary and intonation. Therefore, cultivating and using vocabulary in this topic is extremely important. IDP will introduce you to the Shopping vocabulary system below.
How often do you go shopping?
What are some problems of shopping online?
IELTS Speaking vocabulary around the topic of shopping
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Pricey (a) | /ˈpraɪsi/ |
Reasonably (priced) (adv) | /ˈriːznəbli praɪs/ |
Advertising campaign (n) | /ˈædvətaɪzɪŋ kæmˈpeɪn/ |
Slash (price) (v) | /slæʃ praɪs/ |
Daily necessities (n) | /ˈdeɪli nəˈsesəti/ |
Pay in cash (v) | /peɪ ɪn kæʃ/ |
Splurge (n) | /splɜːdʒ/ |
Extravagant (a) | /ɪkˈstrævəɡənt/ |
Tight budget (a) | /taɪt ˈbʌdʒɪt/ |
Get into debt (v) | /ɡet ˈɪntə det/ |
Fraudulent (a) | /ˈfrɔːdʒələnt/ |
Shopping centre (n) | /ˈʃɒpɪŋ ˈsentə(r)/ |
Local shop (n) | /ˈləʊkl ʃɒp/ |
Loyalty card (n) | /ˈlɔɪəlti kɑːd/ |
Forest fires, global warming, pollution, etc. are some of the questions that examiners may ask in the Environment topic. The environment is considered a topic that has appeared frequently in IELTS exams in recent years. In addition to learning vocabulary through Reading tests, you should regularly update environmental issues. Please refer to the questions and vocabulary that IDP has systematized below to complete all 3 parts of the test well.
Are there any environmental problems in your country?
Do you or your family take steps to help the environment?
IELTS Speaking vocabulary on the topic of environment
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Pollution (n) | /pəˈluːʃn/ |
Contamination (n) | /kənˌtæmɪˈneɪʃn/ |
Greenhouse (n) | /ˈɡriːnhaʊs/ |
Forest fire (n) | /ˈfɒrɪst ˈfaɪə(r)/ |
Deforestation (n) | /ˌdiːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/ |
Ecosystem (n) | /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ |
Soil erosion (n) | /sɔɪl ɪˈrəʊʒn/ |
Conservation (n) | /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ |
Alternative energy (n) | /ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv ˈenədʒi/ |
Temperatures soar (n) | /ˈtemprətʃə(r) sɔː(r)/ |
Ozone layer depletion (n) | /ˈəʊzəʊn leɪə(r) dɪˈpliːʃn/ |
Eco-friendly (a) | /ˌiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ |
Wind farms (n) | /ˈwɪnd fɑːm/ |
Green taxes (n) | /ɡriːn tæks/ |
Fossil fuel (n) | /ˈfɒsl fjuːəl/ |
Sustainable development (n) | /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ |
Biodiversity (n) | /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ |
“Describe an advertisement that made you buy a product” is a common question in the Advertising topic. Examiners expect you to be able to combine information about the advertisement: what product it is advertising, whether it appears on TV, in newspapers or on the radio, why you are attracted to it? IDP suggests some questions and a list of vocabulary below.
Are there many advertisements in your country?
Why do you think there are so many advertisements now?
Common phrases in advertising topics
Từ vựng | Phiên âm |
Advertisement (n) | /ˌædvərˈtaɪzmənt/ |
Campaign (n) | /kæmˈpeɪn/ |
Catalogue (n) | /ˈkætəlɔːɡ/ |
Competitor (n) | /kəmˈpetɪtə(r)/ |
Entertainment industry (n) | /ˌentərˈteɪnmənt ˈɪndəstri/ |
Mass media (n) | /ˌmæs ˈmiːdiə/ |
Newsletter (n) | /ˈnuːzletər/ |
Poll (n) | /pəʊl/ |
Advertising agency (n) | /ˈædvətaɪzɪŋ ˈeɪdʒənsi/ |
Brand awareness (n) | /brænd əˈweənəs/ |
Brand loyalty (n) | /brænd ˈlɔɪəlti/ |
Classified advertisement (n) | /ˌklæsɪfaɪd ədˈvɜːtɪsmənt/ |
Junk mail (n) | /ˈdʒʌŋk meɪl/ |
Prime time (n) | /ˈpraɪm taɪm/ |
Billboards (n) | /ˈbɪlbɔːd/ |
Live up to its hype (n) | /lɪv ʌp tə ɪts haɪp/ |
Celebrity endorsement (n) | /səˈlebrəti ɪnˈdɔːsmənt/ |
Pop up (n) | /ˈpɒp ʌp/ |
There are many tools to help you learn vocabulary as well as prepare for the IELTS Speaking test effectively, however, each person will have certain learning methods. The important thing is that you need to have a plan along with a specific vocabulary list to achieve the desired results.
Learning through books: Currently, there are many types of IELTS vocabulary books, Cambridge vocabulary books are always the top choice. Some Cambridge vocabulary books you can use include:
Vocabulary for IELTS – Cambridge:
This is one of the famous books that point out common mistakes and practical useful advice for learners.
Academic Vocabulary in Use – Cambridge:
The book from Cambridge University Press is scientifically designed with 50 lessons. The book is presented very clearly with knowledge and practice exercises on the context of vocabulary usage. At the same time, the book also systematically organizes vocabulary for you in detail - a 'bedside book' during your review process.
English Collocations in Use – Cambridge:
This book collects common collocations, helping you use English vocabulary more naturally and accurately.
Vocabulary for IELTS Advanced – Cambridge:
The book with 25 units includes general and academic vocabulary, helping you significantly improve your Speaking and Writing skills.
The Vocabulary for IELTS – Cambridge book has useful tips for learners
>>> See more:
Top 20+ most effective IELTS preparation books from basic to advanced
Complete set of 14+ IELTS preparation books from zero to 7.0+
Learning through movies and music: One of the easiest and most engaging ways to learn vocabulary is through movies and music. This is a passive learning method, you can both learn and entertain, so this method is often practiced by many people. You can follow some popular IELTS vocabulary learning YouTube channels such as:
BBC LearnEnglish:
It is a very famous English learning channel, you will be exposed to many common vocabulary words while listening to English news here.
TEDxTalk:
YouTube channel with many topics such as education, environment, health, ... both helps you update IELTS Speaking vocabulary and improve knowledge.
IELTS Advantage:
This YouTube channel is run by a team of experienced IELTS examiners. You will be guided on how to study, practice tips to improve skills effectively.
TedxTalk is a YouTube channel with diverse topics, helping you improve your English proficiency effectively
Learning through websites: You can also learn vocabulary from some famous Speaking practice websites such as: Vocabulary.com, Vocabulary.co.il, Membean.com, Manythings.org / vocabulary,...
Learning through apps, video games: Game apps help you learn and play effectively. Game tasks will bring a large amount of vocabulary if you play continuously every day.
Learning vocabulary through IELTS Reading passages: To learn vocabulary effectively, you can take advantage of vocabulary from IELTS Reading passages. Note the words or phrases paraphrased in the passage, good collocations, vocabulary about time, frequency, quantity, probability,...
>>> See more: 14+ websites to practice IELTS Reading online to conquer all band scores
Learn vocabulary scientifically, systematically to help you remember longer and use words more accurately in context.
Map vocabulary by topic:
If learning a large amount of vocabulary on one topic is overwhelming and difficult for you, you can break it down into smaller parts. With this learning method, by linking ideas, you will retain knowledge longer.
At this point, the ability to use vocabulary correctly and diversely is enhanced. Currently, there are quite a few tools to create mind maps. You can refer to specialized software like MindMapple, Blumind, Coggle,... or simply use pen and paper.
Example: The topic “Health” can be broken down into smaller groups such as: sleep, diet, stress, and help. From that topic, you can expand the issue by finding vocabulary that describes or is related to the root word in a reasonable way. Gradually, you will compile more vocabulary with a rich mind map.
Mind map by Health topic
>>> See more: How to use mind maps to build vocabulary for IELTS
How to create an effective mind map?
First, you will have a root word, called the topic. Next to the root word, you should divide it into branches belonging to the main topic. Under each word, you should write the phonetic transcription and meaning of the word. The form and style of learning through mind maps, combined with images, will bring surprising results.
In addition to drawing branches into related words, you can divide the branches by word type, such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, idiomatic phrases. Furthermore, you can be creative by finding additional related famous characters, famous examples,... within the topic. Besides learning words, you can also make sentences to help you relate and apply them more in communication.
You can also use many vibrant colors, draw additional illustrations to help the brain remember better. Images and colors are catalysts that help us absorb vocabulary effectively. Combining with images will bring you an interesting learning session as English learning time will become more colorful.
The above is a summary IELTS Speaking vocabulary for 20 “easy to encounter - easy to test” topics shared by IDP to help you enrich your English vocabulary. IDP wishes you will have many creative answers from the learning tips in this article!
>>> See more: How to build vocabulary for the IELTS Listening test
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