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Essential Words for TOEFL iBT® Test

Essential Words for TOEFL iBT® Test

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A robust vocabulary is the cornerstone of success on the TOEFL iBT® test, which assesses your ability to use and understand English at the university level. Whether you're reading complex academic texts, comprehending spoken lectures, articulating your thoughts in discussions, or crafting well-structured essays, a strong command of essential words is vital.

Navigating the vast sea of English vocabulary can be difficult, but focusing on the right words can significantly enhance your performance. This blog is designed to guide you through the key vocabulary that frequently appears in the TOEFL iBT test. From academic terminology to transitional phrases, mastering these essential words will give you the confidence and skills needed to achieve a high score.

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List of Key Vocabulary Words for TOEFL iBT

Mastering essential vocabulary is pivotal for performing well on the TOEFL iBT®. Here, we present a categorised list of key vocabulary words that are frequently encountered in the test. Understanding and using these words will help you navigate through the Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing sections with greater ease and confidence.

Academic Terms

These are words that you will commonly find in academic texts and lectures. They are crucial for understanding complex ideas and arguments presented in the TOEFL iBT.

Word

Meaning

Example

Analyse (verb)

To examine in detail for the purpose of explanation and interpretation

The scientist analysed the data to find patterns and correlations.

Significant (adjective)

Sufficiently great or important to be worthy of attention

The results of the study were significant enough to influence future research.

Concept (noun)

An abstract idea or a general notion

The concept of democracy is fundamental to understanding modern political systems.

Hypothesis (noun)

A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation

The hypothesis that the moon influences human behavior was tested by the researchers.

Evaluate (verb)

To judge or determine the significance, worth, or quality of something

Students are required to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different theories.

Transitional Phrases

Transitional phrases are essential for connecting ideas smoothly and coherently in both writing and speaking. They help in structuring your responses and essays more effectively.

Word

Meaning

Example

Moreover

In addition to what has been said; furthermore

The new policy aims to reduce carbon emissions. Moreover, it seeks to promote renewable energy sources.

Consequently

As a result or effect of an action or condition

The company did not invest in new technology; consequently, it lagged behind its competitors.

Nevertheless

In spite of what has just been mentioned; however

The project faced many challenges. Nevertheless, it was completed on time.

For instance

Used to introduce an example

Many renewable energy sources are becoming cost-effective. For instance, the cost of solar panels has decreased significantly.

In contrast

To show the difference between two or more things

Urban areas are densely populated. In contrast, rural areas often have much lower population densities.

 

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Subject-Specific Vocabulary

Understanding terms related to common TOEFL topics such as science, history, and technology can give you an edge in the test. Here are some examples from frequently covered subjects.

Word

Meaning

Example

Photosynthesis (noun)

The process by which green plants and some other organisms use sunlight to synthesise foods from carbon dioxide and water

Photosynthesis is essential for the survival of plants as it produces the oxygen we breathe.

Renaissance (noun)

The revival of art and literature under the influence of classical models in the 14th–16th centuries

The Renaissance was a period of great cultural and intellectual growth in Europe.

Ecosystem (noun)

A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment

Coral reefs are complex ecosystems that support a wide variety of marine life.

Quantum (noun)

The minimum amount of any physical entity involved in an interaction, commonly used in physics

Quantum mechanics explores the behavior of particles at the smallest scales of energy levels.

Industrialisation (noun)

The development of industries in a country or region on a wide scale

The industrialisation of the 19th century transformed economies and societies worldwide.

 

Check out - Top 5 Tips to Master English Vocabulary for TOEFL iBT®

Strategies for Learning and Retaining TOEFL Vocabulary

Expanding your vocabulary is a vital part of preparing for the TOEFL iBT®, and employing effective strategies can make this process easier and more enjoyable. Here are some proven methods to help you learn and retain the essential vocabulary needed for the TOEFL test.

  • Flashcards and Vocabulary Apps: Use flashcards and vocabulary apps to memorise and review new words regularly. These tools often include spaced repetition, which helps reinforce long-term retention.

  • Regular Reading: Engage with a variety of reading materials such as academic articles, novels, and news reports. This exposes you to new words in context, enhancing understanding and recall.

  • Contextual Learning: Practice using new words in sentences related to your own experiences or interests. Creating stories or narratives that include these words can also make learning more engaging and memorable.

  • Active Usage: Incorporate new vocabulary into your daily conversations and writing exercises. This helps solidify your grasp of the words and ensures you can use them fluently in real-life scenarios.

  • Consistent Review: Schedule regular review sessions to revisit and reinforce previously learned words. Mixing new and old vocabulary during practice ensures continuous reinforcement and retention.

Learning and retaining TOEFL vocabulary is a strategic process that requires consistent effort and diverse approaches. By combining these methods, you can build a strong vocabulary foundation that will not only help you excel on the TOEFL iBT but also enhance your overall English proficiency. All the best for your journey ahead.

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