IELTS Vocabulary by Topics: Master Guide (2026 Edition)

Vocabulary practice flashcards covering foundational lexical concepts, natural collocations, academic upgrade verbs, and core topic themes from the IELTS Vocabulary by Topics guide.

Collocation

A partnership of words that naturally go together in English (e.g., 'make a decision', 'heavy traffic', 'raise awareness') rather than being selected in isolation.

Word family

A group of related words formed from the same base root through derivation across parts of speech (e.g., employ, employment, employer, employee, unemployed).

Close-knit family

A family characterized by strong emotional bonds, mutual support, and close relationships among its members.

Hands-on learning

An educational approach based on practical, active experience and learning by doing rather than purely memorising theoretical concepts.

Critical thinking

The ability to carefully analyze, question, and objectively evaluate arguments and ideas instead of accepting them passively.

Work-life balance

The division and healthy management of one's time and energy between professional duties and personal or family life.

Sedentary lifestyle

A daily routine characterized by little to no physical movement or exercise, common among office and desk workers.

Preventive care

Healthcare measures, habits, and policies aimed at stopping illness and disease before they occur, rather than treating them after they become severe.

Urban sprawl

The uncontrolled and unplanned physical expansion of a city into its surrounding rural or suburban areas, which often lengthens commuting times.

Digital literacy

The practical ability to effectively use, evaluate, and navigate digital tools, platforms, and technological devices.

Digital footprint

The permanent and traceable trail of personal data, records, and activities left behind by an individual on the internet.

Sustainable development

Economic and social growth that fulfills the requirements of the present without damaging the environment or depleting resources for future generations.

Resource depletion

The reduction and exhaustion of raw materials, clean water, or fossil fuels caused by unsustainable consumption.

Rehabilitation

The process of reforming, educating, and supporting offenders to help them reintegrate into society and avoid reoffending.

Social cohesion

The degree of trust, unity, and shared social bonds among different individuals and communities in a society.

Cultural identity

An individual's or community's sense of belonging to a shared cultural group, shaped by language, heritage, and traditional values.

Mass tourism

Large-scale travel involving huge volumes of tourists, which can generate substantial revenue but also strain local infrastructure and heritage sites.

Fluctuate

To shift and change irregularly, rising and falling repeatedly over a given period of time.

Double-edged sword

A decision, trend, or technology that provides obvious advantages and benefits while simultaneously introducing serious risks or disadvantages.

Exacerbate

A formal precision verb meaning to intensify, worsen, or aggravate an existing negative situation or problem.

Detrimental

An academic evaluative adjective meaning harmful, damaging, or counterproductive.

Undermine

To gradually weaken, damage, or erode the credibility, stability, or effectiveness of something (such as public trust or health).

Algorithmic bias

Systematic and repeatable errors or discrimination embedded into computer algorithms that create unfair outcomes.

Career prospects

The potential opportunities and likelihood for future employment, promotion, and professional advancement.