To get a high score in the IELTS Speaking test, you must show that you can use a fairly wide variety of words, including ‘less common’ synonyms of everyday words. In this post I’m going to present a few synonyms of some common adjectives. Check their precise meaning in a dictionary and try to find examples of their use. I’ve only included synonyms that are appropriate for the speaking test — not too formal and not too informal.
| Common adjective | Less common synonyms |
|---|---|
| rich | affluent, well-off, wealthy |
| poor | hard up, penniless, badly-off |
| difficult | challenging, tough, tricky |
| easy | effortless, simple, uncomplicated |
| enjoyable | pleasant, fun |
| expensive | pricey, costly, dear |
| cheap | inexpensive, affordable, low-cost |
| friendly | outgoing, sociable, likable, warm |
| unfriendly | cold, unsociable, hostile |
| happy | cheerful, content |
| unhappy | miserable, depressed |
| busy | hectic, tiring |
| fat | overweight, large, plump |
| healthy (food) | nutritious, wholesome |
| beautiful (landscape/view) | attractive, breathtaking, wonderful, picturesque |
| beautiful (person) | attractive, gorgeous, good-looking |
| delicious | pleasant, scrumptious, yummy (informal) |
Don’t overuse words
If you use a more ‘advanced’ synonym of a common adjective, be careful not to overuse it. In natural English, we use a variety of words to express the same idea, including common adjectives.
If you are aiming for a high band, you can find lots of useful synonyms to watch and download in Lectures #8-11 of the IELTS Speaking Masterclass course.
Thank you for sharing with us so many useful information. You do things so simple! I knew this information before but with you I could generalize it in my memory. Thank you for your job! Naylya
give me all forms of possible words which have to be used in speaking skill.
Hi, in future posts I will include more vocabulary. You can also find a full list of adjectives in my eBook.
What useful vocabulary! Thank you for your posting. With you, I can improve more my English.
i helpful thanks lot
Thanks a lot . these words and your guiding are very important me to improve myself.
Thank you very much you have been my persistent guid and teatcher I really appreciate your effort ,……..have a more success and preceeding.