A–Z Vocabulary
High-impact IELTS words starting with A — advocate, ambiguous, alleviate and more — with definitions, example sentences and memory tricks.
10 / 10 words
verb / noun
Definition
To publicly recommend or support a particular cause, policy, or idea; (n.) a person who supports it.
Example sentence
“Many economists advocate carbon taxation as the most efficient mechanism for reducing industrial emissions.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'add vote' — when you advocate, you 'add your vote' in favour of something.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Open to more than one interpretation; not clearly defined or precise.
Example sentence
“The minister's ambiguous response to the question only deepened public scepticism about government policy.”
Memory trick
'Ambi-' (two, as in ambidextrous) + 'guess' — you have to guess between two meanings.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To make a problem, suffering, or burden less severe.
Example sentence
“Targeted welfare programmes can significantly alleviate the impact of inflation on low-income households.”
Memory trick
Think 'a-LEVI-ate' — Levi (jeans) lifts you up; alleviate lifts the weight off a problem.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To make something greater by adding to it; to increase or supplement.
Example sentence
“Universities increasingly use AI tools to augment traditional teaching rather than replace it.”
Memory trick
'Aug-MENT' sounds like 'add-MENT' — you add more to something.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
The right or condition of self-government; personal independence and freedom to make one's own decisions.
Example sentence
“Giving employees greater autonomy over their work schedules has been shown to boost both productivity and wellbeing.”
Memory trick
'Auto' (self) + '-nomy' (law/rule) — being ruled by yourself.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Based on random choice or personal whim rather than reason or system.
Example sentence
“Critics argue the new visa age limit is entirely arbitrary and lacks any clear demographic justification.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'arbiter' deciding randomly — an arbitrary rule comes from no real principle.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Preventing success or development; harmful, unfavourable.
Example sentence
“Long working hours can have adverse effects on both mental health and family relationships.”
Memory trick
'Ad-VERSE' — like a verse pushing against you ('versus'). Adverse = against you.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Existing or available in large quantities; plentiful.
Example sentence
“Countries with abundant renewable resources are best placed to lead the global energy transition.”
Memory trick
'A-BUN-dant' — picture a baker with abundant buns overflowing the tray.
Common collocations
verb / adjective
Definition
(v.) To express thoughts clearly and effectively in words; (adj.) able to do so.
Example sentence
“Effective leaders must articulate a clear vision that resonates with both employees and stakeholders.”
Memory trick
Think of an 'article' you write — being articulate is shaping ideas into clear articles.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
The arrival of a notable person, thing, or event, especially one that begins a new era.
Example sentence
“The advent of artificial intelligence has fundamentally reshaped the global labour market.”
Memory trick
Like 'Advent calendar' counting down to something new arriving.
Common collocations