A–Z Vocabulary
Powerful IELTS words starting with P — paramount, pervasive, profound and more — with definitions, examples and memory tricks.
10 / 10 words
adjective
Definition
More important than anything else; supreme.
Example sentence
“Protecting children's online safety must remain paramount as platforms develop ever more powerful features.”
Memory trick
'Para-' (above) + 'mount' (mountain) — above the mountain, the highest.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
A typical pattern or model; a fundamental way of thinking.
Example sentence
“Climate change requires a complete paradigm shift in how societies value natural resources.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'pair-a-dime' — a pair of model coins, a pattern.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Relevant or applicable to a particular matter.
Example sentence
“The committee raised several pertinent questions about the long-term funding of the proposal.”
Memory trick
Like 'pertaining to' — pertinent = relating to.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Spreading widely throughout an area or group; existing everywhere.
Example sentence
“Misinformation has become pervasive on social media, undermining trust in democratic institutions.”
Memory trick
'Per-' (through) + 'vasive' (spread) — spread through everything.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Seeming reasonable or probable; believable.
Example sentence
“The most plausible explanation is that several economic factors converged simultaneously.”
Memory trick
'Plau-' sounds like 'plea' — a plausible plea is one you can believe.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To think about something carefully, especially before making a decision.
Example sentence
“Policymakers must ponder the ethical implications of widespread AI surveillance.”
Memory trick
'Pond' is calm — pondering is calm, thoughtful reflection.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Not securely held or in position; dangerously unstable.
Example sentence
“Many gig economy workers find themselves in a precarious financial position with little protection.”
Memory trick
'Pre-CARE-ious' — something needing careful handling because unstable.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Very great or intense; showing deep insight.
Example sentence
“The pandemic had a profound effect on global perceptions of public health infrastructure.”
Memory trick
'Pro-' (forward) + 'found' (bottom) — found deep at the bottom.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
An inclination or natural tendency to behave in a particular way.
Example sentence
“Households with higher incomes have a greater propensity to save during periods of uncertainty.”
Memory trick
'Pro-' (forward) + 'pen-' (lean) — leaning toward something.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Competent or skilled in doing or using something.
Example sentence
“Becoming proficient in a second language typically opens up significant economic opportunities.”
Memory trick
Like 'professional' — proficient is professional-level skilled.
Common collocations