A–Z Vocabulary
Powerful IELTS words starting with G — galvanise, generic, globalisation and more — with definitions, examples and memory tricks.
10 / 10 words
verb
Definition
To shock or excite someone into taking action.
Example sentence
“Public outrage over plastic pollution has galvanised governments to introduce single-use plastic bans.”
Memory trick
Galvanised metal is jolted with electricity — to galvanise is to jolt into action.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
The process by which businesses, ideas, and cultures develop international influence and interconnection.
Example sentence
“Globalisation has lifted millions out of poverty but has also widened inequality within many nations.”
Memory trick
'Global' + '-isation' — turning everything global.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Characteristic of a whole class; lacking individual identity or distinctiveness.
Example sentence
“Generic responses to complex social problems rarely produce sustainable outcomes.”
Memory trick
Like a 'generic' supermarket brand — same as everything else, no identity.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Truly what something is said to be; authentic, sincere.
Example sentence
“Genuine engagement with stakeholders is essential to the success of urban renewal projects.”
Memory trick
Genuine leather isn't fake — genuine = real, authentic.
Common collocations
verb / noun
Definition
(v.) To understand fully; (n.) a firm hold or understanding.
Example sentence
“Students often struggle to grasp the long-term implications of climate-related policy decisions.”
Memory trick
Grasping with your hand — also grasping ideas with your mind.
Common collocations
verb / noun
Definition
(v.) To estimate or measure; (n.) an instrument for measuring.
Example sentence
“Surveys are used to gauge public sentiment on proposed transport reforms.”
Memory trick
A fuel gauge measures fuel — to gauge is to measure.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To gather or collect, especially information, support, or approval.
Example sentence
“The proposal has garnered widespread support from environmental groups and economists alike.”
Memory trick
A 'garner' was an old grain store — to garner is to gather into storage.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Happening or changing slowly over time; not sudden.
Example sentence
“A gradual transition away from fossil fuels is more politically feasible than abrupt prohibition.”
Memory trick
Like 'grade' — moving up one grade at a time.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A real or imagined wrong; a cause for complaint.
Example sentence
“Many populist movements draw their strength from longstanding economic grievances.”
Memory trick
From 'grieve' — a grievance is something that makes you grieve.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Innovative; pioneering; introducing something completely new.
Example sentence
“The groundbreaking study challenged decades of established thinking on early childhood development.”
Memory trick
Literally breaking new ground — groundbreaking ideas open new territory.
Common collocations