Essential Vocabulary Words for IELTS Speaking and Writing

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Abnormal

Not normal

The boy displayed abnormal behaviour in class by suddenly shouting out loudly.

Elucidate

To make clear

The fluent speaker elucidated the topic in great detail and at the end of his seminar, things were crystal-clear to us.

Pacify

To calm

The wise, old man tried to pacify both the warring parties, but they were hell-bent on going ahead with their fight.

Query

Question

Since the trainer could not think of a suitable reply to Raha's query, he honestly pleaded his ignorance in the matter.

Rapid

Having great speed

She walked at a rapid pace along the street when it became dark.

Stationary

Unchanging

A stationary object, if propelled with a force, will move in proportion to the force you apply on it.

Uproarious

Noisy

I entered the mall to find out that it was completely chaotic and uproarious.

Abject

Miserable

The abject condition in which Mr. Ghosh lived in his last days was testimony to the fact that despite being the C.M. twice, he had hardly made any money for himself in his political career.

Formidable

Overwhelming, alarming, dreadful

Considering her formidable fan following in the city, it is no surprise that she has won with a huge margin of 2 lakh votes.

Knotty

Puzzling

Whether the hen came first or the egg has been one of the knottiest problems facing our scientists for a long.

Nullify

Make void

The Green Party, by going back on its election-time promises, has nullified the entire goodwill and support it enjoyed at the time of coming to power.

Oust

To eject

Arup was ousted from his community due to his different ideological thought processes.

Palatial

Like a palace

The palatial Maharaja’s Haveli, comprising 200 rooms, 6 banquet halls and 8 swimming pools, was auctioned last month.

Wry

Twisted

Rose’s wry face was testimony to her contemptuous feelings towards the fellow.

Zombie

A frightening person

Soma was sleep walking and looked like a zombie.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Lesson Plan

A detailed outline of instruction for a single class period or session.

The teacher followed the lesson plan to ensure all topics were covered during the class.

Homework

Tasks assigned to students to be completed outside of class time.

Students were given homework to reinforce the concepts learned in class.

Test

An assessment of a student's knowledge or proficiency in a subject.

The final test covered all the material taught throughout the semester.

Group Work

Collaborative activities where students work together in small groups.

The students engaged in group work to solve a challenging problem together.

Discussion

A conversation among students or between a teacher and students about a specific topic.

The class had a lively discussion about the themes in the novel they were reading.

Presentation

A formal talk given by a student or group of students to an audience.

The students prepared presentations to share their research findings with the class.

Peer Review

Evaluation of work by others in the same class or level.

Before submitting their essays, students participated in peer review sessions to provide feedback.

Study Group

A small group of students who meet regularly to review course material together.

The study group met every Saturday morning to prepare for the upcoming exam.

Classroom

A room in which teaching takes place, typically equipped with desks, a board, and seating for students.

The classroom was arranged in a circle to facilitate group discussions.

Teacher

A person who instructs students in a school or other educational institution.

The teacher used various teaching strategies to engage students in the lesson.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Nutrients

Substances in food that provide nourishment and energy for the body's growth and maintenance.

Fruits and vegetables are rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals.

Cardiovascular

Relating to the heart and blood vessels.

Regular exercise helps improve cardiovascular health by strengthening the heart and improving circulation.

Flexibility

The ability of a joint or muscle to move through its full range of motion.

Stretching exercises can improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury during physical activity.

Hydration

The process of supplying water to cells in the body to maintain proper function.

It's important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially during exercise.

Strength Training

Physical activity designed to improve muscle strength and endurance.

Strength training exercises like weightlifting can help build muscle and increase overall strength.

Aerobic Exercise

Physical activity that increases the heart rate and improves oxygen consumption by the body.

Running, swimming, and cycling are examples of aerobic exercises that benefit cardiovascular health.

Rest

A period of relaxation or recovery, essential for allowing the body to repair and recharge.

Adequate rest is important for muscle recovery and overall well-being.

Balanced Diet

A diet that provides all the essential nutrients in the right proportions for optimal health.

A balanced diet includes a variety of foods from all food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, and grains.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

A measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women.

The doctor calculated my BMI to assess my overall health and risk of obesity-related diseases.

Endorphins

Hormones released by the brain that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators.

Exercise triggers the release of endorphins, which can help reduce stress and improve mood.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Algorithm

A set of rules or instructions designed to solve a specific problem or perform a task.

Search engines use complex algorithms to deliver relevant results to users.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

The simulation of human intelligence processes by machines, especially computer systems.

AI-powered chatbots can provide customer support and answer inquiries on websites.

Data

Information, often in the form of numbers or text, that can be analyzed and used for decision-making.

Companies collect and analyze data to understand customer behavior and trends.

Encryption

The process of converting data into a code to prevent unauthorized access or interception.

Secure messaging apps use end-to-end encryption to protect users' privacy.

Cloud Computing

The delivery of computing services, such as storage and software, over the internet.

Many businesses use cloud computing to store and access data remotely from any device.

Virtual Reality (VR)

A computer-generated simulation of an environment that users can interact with.

VR technology allows users to explore virtual worlds and immersive experiences.

Cybersecurity

Measures taken to protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access or attacks.

Strong passwords and antivirus software are essential for cybersecurity.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The network of physical devices embedded with sensors and software that connect and exchange data.

IoT devices like smart thermostats and wearable fitness trackers enhance convenience and efficiency.

Machine Learning

A subset of AI that enables computers to learn and improve from experience without being explicitly programmed.

Recommendation algorithms use machine learning to personalize content for users.

Augmented Reality (AR)

A technology that overlays digital information or images onto the real world through a device, such as a smartphone.

AR apps enhance real-world environments by adding virtual elements, such as directions or information.

Blockchain

A system in which a record of transactions made in cryptocurrency is maintained across several computers linked in a peer-to-peer network.

Blockchain technology is used to ensure the security of cryptocurrency transactions.

Quantum Computing

The area of study focused on developing computer technology based on the principles of quantum theory.

Quantum computing has the potential to solve complex problems much faster than classical computers.

Big Data

Extremely large data sets that may be analyzed computationally to reveal patterns, trends, and associations.

Companies use big data to gain insights into customer behavior.

Automation

The use of technology to perform tasks without human intervention.

Automation in manufacturing has increased efficiency and reduced costs.

Bandwidth

The amount of data that can be transmitted in a fixed amount of time over a digital communication channel.

High bandwidth is essential for streaming high-definition video.

Wearable Technology

Electronic devices that can be worn on the body, often used to track health and fitness data.

Wearable technology like smartwatches can monitor your heart rate and activity levels.

Firmware

Permanent software programmed into a read-only memory.

Updating the firmware on your device can improve its performance.

Neural Network

A computer system modeled on the human brain and nervous system, used in machine learning.

Neural networks are used in image and speech recognition.

DevOps

A set of practices that combine software development (Dev) and IT operations (Ops) to shorten the development lifecycle.

Implementing DevOps can lead to faster and more reliable software releases.

UX/UI Design

User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) design focus on creating products that provide meaningful and relevant experiences to users.

Good UX/UI design is crucial for creating user-friendly applications.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Biodiversity

The variety of living organisms in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

Conserving biodiversity is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and supporting life on Earth.

Renewable Energy

Energy derived from natural resources that are replenished rapidly, such as sunlight or wind.

Solar panels and wind turbines are examples of renewable energy sources that reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Ecosystem

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

Coral reefs are complex ecosystems that support a diverse array of marine life.

Climate Change

Long-term shifts in temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns, largely caused by human activities.

Climate change poses significant challenges to global food security and biodiversity conservation.

Deforestation

The clearing of forests for agriculture, logging, or urban development.

Deforestation contributes to habitat loss, biodiversity decline, and climate change.

Conservation

The preservation and careful management of natural resources and ecosystems.

National parks play a crucial role in conservation by protecting biodiversity and natural landscapes.

Carbon Footprint

The total amount of greenhouse gases emitted directly or indirectly by an individual, organization, or product.

Individuals can reduce their carbon footprint by using energy-efficient appliances and transportation.

Sustainability

Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

Sustainable practices aim to balance environmental, social, and economic considerations.

Pollution

The introduction of harmful substances or contaminants into the environment.

Industrial pollution poses risks to air and water quality, as well as human health and wildlife.

Renewable Resources

Natural resources that can be replenished or regenerated over time, such as sunlight, wind, and water.

Investing in renewable resources helps reduce environmental degradation and mitigate climate change.

Habitat

The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.

Protecting natural habitats is crucial for wildlife preservation.

Emissions

The production and discharge of gases or substances into the atmosphere.

Reducing vehicle emissions can help improve air quality.

Biodegradable

Capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms.

Using biodegradable materials can help reduce waste.

Greenhouse Gases

Gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, contributing to the greenhouse effect.

Carbon dioxide and methane are significant greenhouse gases.

Overfishing

The depletion of fish stocks by excessive fishing.

Overfishing can lead to the collapse of marine ecosystems.

Afforestation

The process of planting trees in a barren land to create a forest.

Afforestation projects help combat desertification and climate change.

Erosion

The gradual destruction or diminution of something, often soil or rock, by wind, water, or other natural agents.

Preventing soil erosion is essential for maintaining fertile land.

Organic Farming

A method of farming that avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms.

Organic farming promotes biodiversity and sustainable agriculture.

Carbon Sequestration

The process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Forests play a critical role in carbon sequestration.

Ecotourism

Tourism directed towards exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife.

Ecotourism can help raise awareness about environmental conservation.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Resume

A document summarizing an individual's education, work experience, skills, and achievements.

She updated her resume to apply for a new job opportunity.

Interview

A formal meeting between a job applicant and a potential employer to assess qualifications and suitability.

He aced the interview and was offered the position the next day.

Networking

Building and maintaining professional relationships for career advancement and opportunities.

Attending industry conferences is a great way to network with potential employers and colleagues.

Mentorship

Guidance and support provided by a more experienced individual to help develop skills and career goals.

He credits his mentorship with helping him navigate challenges and grow professionally.

Freelancer

A self-employed individual who offers services to clients on a contract or project basis.

As a freelancer, she enjoys the flexibility to work on diverse projects and set her own schedule.

Leadership

The ability to inspire and guide others to achieve common goals and objectives.

Effective leadership is crucial for fostering a positive work environment and driving team success.

Work-Life Balance

The equilibrium between professional responsibilities and personal life activities.

Achieving work-life balance is important for maintaining mental well-being and overall satisfaction.

Remote Work

Working from a location other than a traditional office, often enabled by technology and telecommunication.

Many companies have embraced remote work arrangements to accommodate employee preferences and needs.

Career Development

The process of acquiring new skills, experiences, and opportunities to advance in one's profession.

Continuous learning and career development are essential for staying competitive in today's job market.

Promotion

Advancement to a higher position or rank within an organization based on performance and merit.

After years of hard work, she finally received a promotion to a managerial role.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Tradition

Customs, beliefs, practices, and rituals passed down through generations within a community or society.

Lighting candles on birthdays is a tradition in many cultures.

Heritage

The traditions, values, customs, and artifacts passed down from previous generations.

Exploring one's cultural heritage can provide a deeper understanding of identity and roots.

Diversity

The range of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives within a society or group.

Cultural diversity enriches communities by fostering tolerance, understanding, and creativity.

Folklore

The traditional stories, myths, legends, and customs of a culture, passed down orally or through written records.

Folklore often reflects the values and beliefs of a society.

Cultural Exchange

The sharing of ideas, customs, traditions, and artifacts between different cultures or societies.

Participating in cultural exchange programs can promote mutual understanding and appreciation.

Cultural Identity

The sense of belonging and attachment to a particular culture or ethnic group.

Embracing one's cultural identity can foster a sense of pride and connection within a community.

Customs

Social behaviors, practices, and rituals that are considered typical or traditional within a culture.

Bowing as a greeting is a common custom in many Asian cultures.

Festivals

Celebrations or gatherings held to mark special occasions, often with cultural or religious significance.

The Diwali festival is celebrated with fireworks, feasting, and the lighting of oil lamps.

Etiquette

The customary code of polite behavior in society or a particular social group.

Knowing proper etiquette is important when dining in formal settings or attending social events.

Cultural Heritage Site

A place or landmark recognized for its cultural significance and preserved for future generations.

The Great Wall of China is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Destination

A place or location that people travel to for leisure, business, or cultural purposes.

Paris is a popular destination for tourists seeking art, cuisine, and romance.

Itinerary

A detailed plan or schedule of travel arrangements and activities for a trip.

The travel agency provided a customized itinerary for the group tour of Italy.

Tourist

A person who travels for pleasure or leisure, often visiting attractions and landmarks.

The city's historic district is bustling with tourists exploring its cobblestone streets and architecture.

Accommodation

Lodging or housing facilities provided for travelers during their stay away from home.

The hotel offers comfortable accommodation with amenities such as a swimming pool and fitness center.

Sightseeing

The activity of visiting and seeing famous or interesting places, especially as a tourist.

We spent the day sightseeing in Rome, marveling at iconic landmarks like the Colosseum and Vatican City.

Souvenir

A memento or keepsake purchased as a reminder of a place visited or an experience.

She bought a handcrafted pottery vase as a souvenir from her trip to Greece.

Cultural Immersion

Engaging deeply with the local culture and traditions of a destination while traveling.

Participating in a cooking class is a great way to experience cultural immersion during your travels.

Adventure Tourism

Traveling to remote or exotic destinations to engage in activities such as hiking, rafting, or safaris.

Adventure tourism appeals to thrill-seekers seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences in nature.

Guide

A person who leads or accompanies travelers, providing information and assistance during their journey.

The tour guide shared fascinating stories and insights about the city's history and landmarks.

Eco-Tourism

Responsible travel to natural areas that conserves the environment and sustains the well-being of local communities.

Eco-tourism promotes sustainable practices and environmental conservation while supporting local economies.

Expedition

A journey or voyage undertaken by a group of people with a particular purpose, especially that of exploration or research.

They embarked on an expedition to explore the Amazon rainforest.

Visa

An endorsement on a passport indicating that the holder is allowed to enter, leave, or stay for a specified period in a country.

You need to apply for a visa before traveling to Japan.

Backpacking

Traveling or hiking carrying one's belongings in a backpack.

Backpacking through Europe is a popular activity among young travelers.

Transit

The act of passing across or through a place on the way to another place.

They had a short transit in Dubai before flying to Australia.

Excursion

A short journey or trip, especially one taken as a leisure activity.

The cruise offers excursions to nearby islands.

Tourism Industry

The business of providing services such as transport, accommodation, and entertainment to people who are on holiday.

The tourism industry is a major contributor to the country's economy.

Hospitality

The friendly and generous reception and entertainment of guests, visitors, or strangers.

The hospitality at the resort was exceptional, making us feel at home.

Itinerary

A planned route or journey, or a travel schedule.

The travel agent prepared a detailed itinerary for our trip.

Passport

An official document issued by a government, certifying the holder's identity and citizenship, allowing them to travel abroad.

Make sure your passport is valid before booking your flight.

Travel Insurance

Insurance that covers the costs and losses associated with traveling.

It's wise to purchase travel insurance to cover any unforeseen events.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Community

A group of people living in the same area or sharing common interests, values, or goals.

The community came together to organize a fundraiser for a local charity.

Diversity

The presence of a variety of different cultures, backgrounds, and perspectives within a society or group.

Embracing diversity enriches communities by promoting tolerance and understanding.

Inclusivity

The practice or policy of including people who might otherwise be excluded or marginalized, such as those with disabilities or from minority groups.

Creating an inclusive environment ensures that everyone feels welcome and valued.

Civic Engagement

Participation in activities aimed at improving communities and society, such as volunteering, voting, or advocacy.

Civic engagement plays a vital role in shaping public policies and fostering social change.

Social Justice

The fair and equitable distribution of resources, opportunities, and rights within society.

Advocates work tirelessly to address issues of social justice, such as poverty, inequality, and discrimination.

Empowerment

The process of enabling individuals or communities to take control of their lives and circumstances.

Education is a powerful tool for empowerment, providing people with the knowledge and skills to succeed.

Collective Action

Group efforts or initiatives undertaken by individuals working together to achieve common goals or address shared concerns.

Collective action is essential for addressing complex societal issues, such as climate change and poverty.

Volunteerism

The practice of offering one's time, skills, or resources for the benefit of others without expectation of payment.

Volunteering at a local soup kitchen is a rewarding way to give back to the community.

Social Cohesion

The degree of connectedness and solidarity within a community or society, fostering trust, cooperation, and mutual support.

Building social cohesion requires efforts to bridge divides and promote unity among diverse groups.

Community Outreach

Activities or programs designed to engage with and serve the needs of individuals and groups within the community.

The library's community outreach program offers free literacy workshops and resources to residents.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Entertainment

Activities or performances designed to provide enjoyment, amusement, or relaxation.

Going to the movies is a popular form of entertainment for families on weekends.

Media

The various means of communication, such as television, radio, newspapers, and the internet.

The internet has revolutionized the way information is shared and consumed through digital media platforms.

Streaming

Transmitting or receiving audio or video content over the internet in real-time, without downloading it.

Many people prefer streaming services for on-demand access to movies, TV shows, and music.

Gaming

Playing electronic games, often on consoles, computers, or mobile devices.

Gaming has become a popular form of entertainment, with millions of players worldwide.

Social Media

Online platforms and websites that enable users to create, share, and interact with content and connect with others.

Social media has transformed how people communicate and share information in today's digital age.

Celebrity

A famous person, often in the entertainment industry, widely recognized by the public.

The celebrity's latest film premiere attracted a crowd of fans eager to catch a glimpse of their favorite star.

Reality TV

Television programs featuring unscripted real-life situations, often involving ordinary people or celebrities.

Reality TV shows like "Survivor" and "The Bachelor" have captivated audiences with their drama and excitement.

Pop Culture

Cultural elements, trends, and phenomena that are popular and widely accepted by society.

Fashion, music, and movies are all aspects of pop culture that influence trends and attitudes.

Podcast

A digital audio program or series available for download or streaming, typically on specific topics or interests.

The podcast features interviews with experts discussing topics ranging from science to psychology.

Blockbuster

A highly successful and financially lucrative movie, book, or other form of entertainment.

The new movie release was a blockbuster hit, breaking box office records worldwide.

Animation

The technique of photographing successive drawings or positions of puppets to create an illusion of movement when the movie is shown as a sequence.

Pixar is renowned for its high-quality animation.

Cinematography

The art of making motion pictures, including shooting and processing film.

The movie won an award for its stunning cinematography.

Documentary

A non-fiction film that provides a factual report on a particular subject.

We watched a documentary about the effects of climate change.

Genre

A category of artistic composition, as in music or literature, characterized by similarities in form, style, or subject matter.

Her favorite genre of movies is science fiction.

Sitcom

A genre of comedy centered on a fixed set of characters who carry over from episode to episode.

The sitcom has been a staple of American television for decades.

Soundtrack

The music that accompanies a film, video game, or television show.

The soundtrack of the movie became an instant hit.

Viral

An image, video, or piece of information that is circulated rapidly and widely on the internet.

The cat video went viral within hours of being posted.

Binge-Watching

The practice of watching multiple episodes of a television show in one sitting.

Many people spent the weekend binge-watching their favorite series.

Franchise

A series of related works in the realms of film, television, literature, or video games.

The Star Wars franchise has a massive global following.

Script

The written text of a play, film, or broadcast.

The actors read through the script before starting rehearsals.

Word

Meaning

Usage Example

Science

The systematic study of the structure, behavior, and phenomena of the physical and natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis.

Scientists conduct research and experiments to advance our understanding of the universe.

Innovation

The introduction of new ideas, methods, products, or technologies that lead to significant changes or improvements in society or industry.

The company's latest innovation revolutionized the way people communicate and collaborate.

Research

Systematic investigation or inquiry aimed at discovering new knowledge or solving problems.

The research team published groundbreaking findings that could lead to new treatments for cancer.

Technology

The application of scientific knowledge and techniques to invent, design, and produce tools, machines, and systems to solve practical problems or achieve specific goals.

Advances in technology have transformed how people work, communicate, and live their daily lives.

Experiment

A controlled procedure carried out to test a hypothesis, demonstrate a scientific principle, or discover new information.

The scientist designed an experiment to study the effects of climate change on marine ecosystems.

Discovery

The act or process of finding or uncovering something previously unknown or hidden.

The discovery of a new species of dinosaur shed light on the evolutionary history of reptiles.

Breakthrough

An important development or achievement that represents a significant advance or success.

The medical breakthrough could lead to a cure for a previously incurable disease.

Biotechnology

The application of biological processes, organisms, or systems to develop new products or technologies for various industries, such as healthcare, agriculture, and environmental conservation.

Biotechnology plays a crucial role in producing vaccines, improving crop yields, and cleaning up pollution.

Nanotechnology

The manipulation of matter on an atomic, molecular, or supramolecular scale to create materials, devices, and systems with novel properties and functions.

Nanotechnology has the potential to revolutionize industries ranging from electronics to medicine.

Genetic Engineering

The manipulation of an organism's genes or DNA to introduce new traits, enhance characteristics, or produce desired outcomes.

Genetic engineering holds promise for addressing challenges in agriculture, medicine, and environmental conservation.

Idiom/Phrase

Meaning

Usage Examples

A piece of cake

Very easy

1. That test was a piece of cake; I finished it in 10 minutes.

2. Cooking spaghetti is a piece of cake for me.

3. I thought the hike would be difficult, but it turned out to be a piece of cake.

Break the ice

To initiate conversation or social interaction

1. He told a joke to break the ice at the party.

2. I always try to break the ice with new colleagues.

3. A smile can often break the ice in awkward situations.

Hit the nail on the head

To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem

1. You hit the nail on the head; I've been feeling overwhelmed lately.

2. The report hit the nail on the head regarding our company's financial issues.

3. Her analysis hit the nail on the head, identifying the main reasons for the project's failure.

Kick the bucket

To die

1. He kicked the bucket peacefully in his sleep.

2. I hope I don't kick the bucket before I finish my bucket list.

3. She joked that she might kick the bucket if she had to climb another flight of stairs.

Cost an arm and a leg

Very expensive

1. That designer handbag costs an arm and a leg.

2. The repairs on my car are going to cost an arm and a leg.

3. Living in this city can cost you an arm and a leg.

Beat around the bush

To avoid addressing the main topic or issue

1. Stop beating around the bush and just tell me what you think.

2. Instead of beating around the bush, let's address the problem directly.

3. She always beats around the bush when it comes to giving feedback.

Caught between a rock and a hard place

To be in a difficult situation with no good options

1. I'm caught between a rock and a hard place: if I quit my job, I won't have income, but if I stay, I'll be miserable.

2. The company was caught between a rock and a hard place when the supplier went bankrupt.

3. She's caught between a rock and a hard place; she wants to study abroad, but her family needs her at home.

Break a leg

Good luck, especially before a performance

1. Break a leg on your audition!

2. I told him to break a leg before his big presentation.

3. Break a leg tonight at the concert; I know you'll do great!

Bite the bullet

To endure a painful or unpleasant situation

1. I know the surgery will be tough, but I have to bite the bullet and get it over with.

2. We'll have to bite the bullet and work overtime to finish the project on time.

3. She bit the bullet and apologized, even though she wasn't entirely wrong.

Cut to the chase

To get to the point without wasting time

1. Let's cut to the chase and discuss the main issues.

2. Instead of small talk, she prefers to cut to the chase in meetings.

3. Stop beating around the bush and just cut to the chase.

Dead as a doornail

Completely dead or lifeless

1. After the accident, the engine was dead as a doornail.

2. The party was dead as a doornail until the music started.

3. The batteries in the remote are dead as a doornail; we need to replace them.

Don't cry over spilled milk

Don't worry about something that has already happened and cannot be changed

1. Yes, we lost the game, but there's no use crying over spilled milk.

2. I know you made a mistake, but don't cry over spilled milk; learn from it and move on.

3. The vase is broken now; let's not cry over spilled milk and focus on cleaning it up.

It's raining cats and dogs

Heavy rain

1. We can't go outside; it's raining cats and dogs.

2. The weather forecast said it would rain, but I didn't expect it to be raining cats and dogs.

3. I got soaked walking home; it was raining cats and dogs.

Let the cat out of the bag

To reveal a secret

1. I can't believe you let the cat out of the bag about the surprise party!

2. She accidentally let the cat out of the bag about the new product launch.

3. Don't let the cat out of the bag about our vacation plans; it's supposed to be a surprise.

Spill the beans

To reveal a secret

1. He promised not to spill the beans about the surprise birthday party.

2. She accidentally spilled the beans about the upcoming merger.

3. I can't believe you spilled the beans about our plans to quit our jobs!

Phrasal Verb

Meaning

Example Sentence

Look after

To take care of someone or something.

She looks after her younger siblings when her parents are at work.

Set up

To establish or arrange something.

They set up a new business in the city center.

Turn down

To refuse or reject something.

He turned down the job offer because the salary was too low.

Run out of

To exhaust the supply of something.

We ran out of milk, so I need to go to the store.

Put off

To postpone or delay something.

They put off the meeting until next week.

Get along

To have a harmonious or friendly relationship.

My sister and I get along well.

Go over

To review or examine something carefully.

Let's go over the details of the project one more time.

Come across

To encounter or find unexpectedly.

I came across an old friend while I was shopping.

Bring up

To mention or introduce a topic into conversation.

She brought up the idea of going on vacation next month.

Break down

To stop functioning properly.

My car broke down on the way to work.

Look for

To search for something or someone.

I'm looking for my keys; have you seen them?

Take off

To remove clothing or leave the ground (for planes).

She took off her coat as soon as she entered the house.

Come up with

To produce or create something, especially an idea or plan.

They came up with a brilliant solution to the problem.

Turn up

To arrive or appear, especially unexpectedly.

He turned up at the party uninvited.

Bring about

To cause something to happen.

The new regulations brought about significant changes in the industry.

Give up

To stop trying or surrender.

Don't give up on your dreams; keep working towards them.

Look into

To investigate or examine something closely.

The police are looking into the matter.

Get over

To recover from something, especially an illness or emotional setback.

It took her a long time to get over her breakup.

Put on

To wear clothing or accessories.

She put on her favorite dress for the party.

Turn on

To switch on or activate a device or appliance.

He turned on the TV to watch the news.

Take out

To remove something from a place or obtain something from storage.

She took out her wallet to pay for the groceries.

Put up with

To tolerate or endure something unpleasant.

I don't know how he puts up with that noisy neighbor.

Get away

To escape or take a vacation.

We need to get away from the city for a few days.

Run into

To meet someone unexpectedly.

I ran into my old school teacher at the supermarket.

Turn off

To switch off or deactivate a device or appliance.

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Ebooks

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IELTS Reading Practice Books

IELTS Writing Practice Books

IELTS Speaking Practice Books

IELTS Listening Practice Books

IELTS Preparation Tips 2024 Book

IELTS and TOEFL Vocabulary Guide Book

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 1

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 6

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 2

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 7

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 3

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 8

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 4

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 9

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 5

IELTS READING PRACTICE TEST 10

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 1

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 6

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 2

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 7

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 3

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 8

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 4

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 9

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 5

IELTS WRITING PRACTICE TEST 10

IELTS LISTENING PRACTICE TEST- 1

IELTS LISTENING PRACTICE TEST- 2

IELTS LISTENING PRACTICE TEST- 3

IELTS LISTENING PRACTICE TEST- 4

IELTS LISTENING PRACTICE TEST- 5

IELTS SPEAKING PRACTICE TEST- 1

IELTS SPEAKING PRACTICE TEST- 2

IELTS SPEAKING PRACTICE TEST- 3

IELTS SPEAKING PRACTICE TEST- 4

IELTS SPEAKING PRACTICE TEST- 5