A–Z Vocabulary
Useful IELTS words starting with W — widespread, withstand, worthwhile and more — with definitions, examples and memory tricks.
10 / 10 words
adjective
Definition
Found or distributed over a large area or among many people.
Example sentence
“Widespread adoption of electric vehicles will require major investment in charging infrastructure.”
Memory trick
Wide + spread — spread across a wide area.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To remain undamaged or unaffected by; to resist successfully.
Example sentence
“Modern building codes require structures to withstand earthquakes of significant magnitude.”
Memory trick
'With-' (against) + 'stand' — to stand against.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Worth the time, money, or effort spent.
Example sentence
“Investment in early childhood education is overwhelmingly considered worthwhile by economists.”
Memory trick
Worth your while — worth the time spent.
Common collocations
verb / noun
Definition
(v.) To justify or necessitate; (n.) an official authorisation.
Example sentence
“The data does not warrant the alarming conclusions drawn by some commentators.”
Memory trick
Like a 'warranty' guaranteeing something — warrant means to justify.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Conducive to physical or moral wellbeing; healthy.
Example sentence
“Schools are increasingly emphasising wholesome meals to combat rising childhood obesity.”
Memory trick
'Whole' + '-some' — making you whole and healthy.
Common collocations
noun
Definition
The people engaged in or available for work in a country, industry, or organisation.
Example sentence
“An ageing workforce poses significant challenges for productivity and pension systems.”
Memory trick
The 'force' of workers in a country — workforce.
Common collocations
adjective
Definition
Decreasing in vigour, power, or extent.
Example sentence
“Despite waning public attention, the housing crisis remains acute in many major cities.”
Memory trick
Like the waning moon — getting smaller, fading.
Common collocations
verb
Definition
To inflict (something harmful) on a large scale.
Example sentence
“Extreme weather events continue to wreak havoc on agricultural production worldwide.”
Memory trick
Sounds like 'reek' — wreaking havoc leaves a stink behind.
Common collocations
adverb
Definition
With complete sincerity and commitment.
Example sentence
“The proposal was wholeheartedly endorsed by both academic and industry representatives.”
Memory trick
With your 'whole heart' — wholeheartedly.
Common collocations
verb (past)
Definition
Past tense of 'work'; formed or made (often used of large-scale change).
Example sentence
“Digital technology has wrought profound changes in how people learn and communicate.”
Memory trick
Like 'wrought iron' shaped by labour — wrought = shaped by work.
Common collocations