A–Z Vocabulary
Useful IELTS words starting with V — viable, vulnerable, volatile and more — with definitions, examples and memory tricks.
10 / 10 words
adjective
Definition
Capable of working successfully; feasible.
Example sentence
“Green hydrogen has emerged as a viable alternative for industries that cannot easily be electrified.”
Memory trick
From Latin 'vita' (life) — viable means capable of life, able to survive.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Susceptible to physical or emotional harm; exposed to risk.
Example sentence
“Low-lying coastal nations are particularly vulnerable to the effects of rising sea levels.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'wounded-able' — able to be wounded.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse.
Example sentence
“Currency markets remain volatile in the wake of ongoing geopolitical tensions.”
Memory trick
Like a volatile chemical that can flash up — unpredictable.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To check or prove the validity or accuracy of something.
Example sentence
“Peer review is the primary mechanism used to validate scientific findings.”
Memory trick
Make 'valid' — confirm something is valid.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Showing strong feeling; forceful, passionate, or intense.
Example sentence
“Proposals to raise the retirement age have met with vehement opposition from trade unions.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'VAY-mint' — minty fresh and intense.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Full of energy and life; bright or striking.
Example sentence
“A vibrant cultural sector enriches both economic and civic life in modern cities.”
Memory trick
Like 'vibe' — full of good vibes and energy.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Able to adapt or be adapted to many different functions or activities.
Example sentence
“Versatile workers who can move between roles are increasingly valued in volatile labour markets.”
Memory trick
From 'verse' — able to turn (verse = turn) to many things.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Secured in the possession of someone; (of an interest) personal and stake-based.
Example sentence
“Reform is often delayed by groups with vested interests in maintaining the existing system.”
Memory trick
Like wearing a 'vest' that you've already got — vested = already secured.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Of uncertain or indefinite character; not clearly expressed or understood.
Example sentence
“The minister's vague reassurances did little to address growing public concern.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'wave' — wavering, not solid.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To clear of blame or suspicion; to justify or prove right.
Example sentence
“Subsequent research has fully vindicated the early warnings issued by climate scientists.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'win-dicate' — winning back your reputation.
Common collocations