A–Z Vocabulary
Powerful IELTS words starting with B — bolster, beneficial, breakthrough and more — with definitions, examples and memory tricks.
10 / 10 words
verb
Definition
To support, strengthen, or reinforce something.
Example sentence
“The government introduced tax incentives to bolster investment in green technology.”
Memory trick
A 'bolster' is a long pillow that supports your back — to bolster is to give support.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Producing good results or favourable effects; advantageous.
Example sentence
“Regular physical activity is beneficial not only for physical health but also for cognitive performance.”
Memory trick
'Benefit' + '-ial' — something that gives a benefit is beneficial.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A sudden, important advance or discovery, especially in scientific or social progress.
Example sentence
“Recent breakthroughs in mRNA technology have opened new possibilities for treating previously incurable diseases.”
Memory trick
Picture literally breaking through a wall — a breakthrough breaks past previous limits.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A system of government or administration with complex rules and many officials; excessive procedural complexity.
Example sentence
“Reducing bureaucracy is essential if small businesses are to compete with multinational corporations.”
Memory trick
'Bureau' (office desk) + '-cracy' (rule) — rule by office desks and paperwork.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Unfairly prejudiced for or against someone or something.
Example sentence
“Algorithmic systems trained on historical data can produce decisions that are biased against minority groups.”
Memory trick
A 'bias' is a slant in fabric — a biased view leans to one side.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Growing or developing rapidly.
Example sentence
“The burgeoning middle class in Southeast Asia represents a vast new market for consumer goods.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'burger-oning' — imagine burgers multiplying rapidly on the grill.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A standard or point of reference against which things may be compared or assessed.
Example sentence
“The Finnish education model is widely regarded as a benchmark for equitable schooling.”
Memory trick
A literal bench marked with measurements — the bench-mark you measure others against.
Common collocations
noun / verb
Definition
An act of breaking or failing to observe a law, agreement, or code; a gap.
Example sentence
“The data breach exposed the personal information of over twenty million users worldwide.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'beach' — water breaches the wall and floods the beach.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Well-meaning and kindly; intending good.
Example sentence
“Many critics argue that even benevolent dictatorships ultimately suppress human freedom.”
Memory trick
'Bene' (good, as in benefit) + 'volent' (wishing) — wishing good for others.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Involving two parties, especially two countries; affecting both sides.
Example sentence
“The two nations signed a bilateral trade agreement designed to lower tariffs over the next decade.”
Memory trick
'Bi-' (two) + 'lateral' (side) — two sides involved.
Common collocations