A–Z Vocabulary
Important IELTS words starting with N — nascent, negligible, nuance and more — with definitions, examples and memory tricks.
10 / 10 words
adjective
Definition
Just coming into existence and beginning to display signs of future potential.
Example sentence
“The nascent electric aviation industry could reshape regional transport within two decades.”
Memory trick
Same root as 'natal' (birth) — nascent means newly born.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
So small or unimportant as to be not worth considering.
Example sentence
“The risk of vaccine side effects is negligible compared with the danger of the diseases they prevent.”
Memory trick
Same root as 'neglect' — so small it can be neglected.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Worthy of attention; remarkable.
Example sentence
“A notable feature of recent labour markets is the growing share of remote and hybrid work.”
Memory trick
Worth taking 'note' of — notable.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
New, original, or different in an interesting way.
Example sentence
“Researchers have developed a novel approach to recycling textiles at industrial scale.”
Memory trick
Like a 'new' novel coming out — novel means new and original.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A sentimental longing for the past, typically for a period or place with happy associations.
Example sentence
“Political nostalgia for an idealised past often shapes voter attitudes toward globalisation.”
Memory trick
'Nost-' (return home) + 'algia' (pain) — the pain of longing to return.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A subtle difference in or shade of meaning, expression, or sound.
Example sentence
“Complex policy debates rarely allow for the nuance that thoughtful analysis requires.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'new ounce' — a tiny addition of meaning.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To care for, encourage, and help develop.
Example sentence
“Schools must nurture not only academic achievement but also emotional resilience.”
Memory trick
Like a 'nurse' nurturing patients — nurturing helps growth.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To find one's way through; to deal with a complicated situation.
Example sentence
“Newcomers must learn to navigate complex visa systems before securing employment.”
Memory trick
Like a ship navigating waters — finding your way through complexity.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A spoken or written account of connected events; a story or interpretation.
Example sentence
“The dominant economic narrative has shifted from market liberalism toward greater state intervention.”
Memory trick
Like 'narrator' — narrative is what the narrator tells.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
Something that is usual, typical, or standard; an accepted standard of behaviour.
Example sentence
“Remote working has rapidly moved from exception to norm in many knowledge-based industries.”
Memory trick
Like 'normal' — a norm is what is normal.
Common collocations