IELTS Vocabulary

Zenith refers to the highest point or peak, which fits the context of climbing.

To yearn means to have an intense feeling of longing for something, which fits the context of wanting a better life.

A xenophile is a person who is attracted to foreign people, manners, or cultures, fitting the description of someone who loves meeting people while traveling.

To whittle down means to reduce the size or number of something gradually.

Vexed means feeling or showing annoyance, frustration, or worry, which matches the context of being irritated and annoyed.

To take umbrage at something means to feel offended or annoyed by it.

Taciturn means reserved or uncommunicative in speech. The antonym is loquacious, which means tending to talk a great deal.

Superfluous means unnecessary or more than is required. Required is the direct opposite, as it implies something is essential or needed.

Rife means widespread or abundant, especially of something undesirable. Scarce is the opposite, meaning rare or in short supply.

Quaint means attractively unusual or old-fashioned. Contemporary is the opposite, as it refers to something modern or current.

A predilection is a preference or special liking for something. It is a bias in favor of a particular thing.

Oblivious means not aware of or not concerned about what is happening around one. Unaware is the direct synonym.

A nuance is a subtle difference in or shade of meaning, expression, or sound. It refers to very small details.

Malleable describes a material that can be hammered or pressed permanently out of shape without breaking or cracking. It is often used metaphorically to describe people who are easily influenced.

Lucid means expressed clearly and easy to understand. Lithe means thin and graceful, while lurid means unpleasantly bright or sensational.

Kin refers to one's family and relations. Knell is the sound of a bell, knack is a skill, and keel is part of a boat.

Jubilant means feeling or expressing great happiness and triumph. Jaundiced implies bitterness or cynicism.

Insular means ignorant of or uninterested in cultures, ideas, or peoples outside one's own experience; it implies a narrow scope.

Heinous means utterly odious or wicked. Loathsome is a direct synonym, meaning causing hatred or disgust.

Gluttony is habitual greed or excess in eating. Greed is the most appropriate synonym.

Flabbergasted means greatly surprised or astonished.

Empathetic means showing an ability to understand and share the feelings of another. Considerate is the best synonym among the choices.

Meticulous, tireless, and diligent all describe someone who works hard and pays attention to detail. Lethargic means sluggish or lacking energy, making it the odd one out.

Coherent, logical, and organised all describe order and clarity. Shambolic means chaotic or disorganized, making it the odd one out.

Brazen, bold, and insolent all describe a lack of shame or a forward, rude demeanor. Subtle means delicate or understated, making it the odd one out.

Amiable, friendly, and welcoming all describe positive, social behavior. Discourteous means rude or impolite, making it the odd one out.