If you intend to take the Duolingo English Test, be sure to read our top advice for getting the highest possible score!
You’ll be asked to complete various exercises that will assess your speaking, reading, listening, and writing abilities. These tasks will be graded using the Duolingo scoring system but in relation to IELTS and TOEFL scores.
You should be aware that vocabulary accounts for most of your overall score on the reading and speaking tests, so they must appreciate its significance.
If you intend to get a good score, you should employ a variety of languages in these areas since the Duolingo English Test will be grading your vocabulary usage.
In this article, we’ve put up a list of Duolingo English Test vocabulary terms that applicants may use in their preparation.
What is the Duolingo English Test?
The Duolingo English Exam is a unique and creative certified English language test that allows test takers to take the test from any location and at any time. On July 15, 2019, the latest edition of the Duolingo English Test was launched.
Unlike other popular English language exams like Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, and PTE, test takers do not need to go to a particular test center.
After the test certificate is issued, it may be forwarded to any institution that accepts the Duolingo English Test certificate. The Duolingo English Test is now approved for admission at over 3,000 institutions across the globe.
The Duolingo English Test was created in response to student demand for admission to various colleges across the world. The exam is especially handy during uncertain periods like COVID-19 since it allows students to take the test anywhere without having to worry about getting to the test center.
Why is Vocabulary Important in the Duolingo English Test?
You should have a broad vocabulary to attain a competitive score since this will aid you in discussing and writing on a variety of subjects. If you are unable to employ the proper words correctly, this becomes a serious flaw that might lower your total score.
It’s all about the language’s words. As a result, knowing as many words as possible is preferable. After you’ve mastered more vocabulary, you’ll have no trouble understanding English.
Most will fail in the reading, writing, speaking, and listening areas because they do not understand the language.
As a consequence, learning how to extend your vocabulary is crucial. If you know the words, you will be able to express your thoughts, sentiments, and emotions. You will have no problems.
So, how are you going to develop your vocabulary?
- Read and listen: The majority of the vocabulary is learned via context. So, choose a program, magazine, podcast, book, or magazine in English that interests you. Avoid listening to or reading anything that does not pique your interest since it may cause you to get distracted.
- Write down the following words: Make it a practice to write down any new or unusual terms you come across, understand their meanings, and learn how to use them in suitable situations.
- Use Memory Techniques: It is not sufficient to merely learn new terms. It is also vital to remember them. As a result, you must continue to study the terms you have previously learned at regular intervals. Consider evaluating them in a week, seven days, three weeks, a month, or whenever is convenient for you.
- Practice, practice, practice: When writing and speaking, you must employ the words that you have written down. As an outcome, keep a careful eye on your vocabulary.
How to Study for Duolingo English Test Vocabulary?
1. Look Up Any Words You Don’t Comprehend
To learn new terms, many people advocate reading publications, novels, and watching television programs.
However, it is equally important to search for any academic terms that you are unfamiliar with. Many ignore difficult and unusual terms because they believe they will not be used in their daily lives or tests.
However, make it a practice to search up vocabulary terms that you are unfamiliar with, especially if they are difficult to read, write, or spell.
2. Keep a Notebook for Duolingo English Test Vocabulary and Look Up Words You Don’t Know
Keeping a notepad to record all new academic terms and their definitions may seem to be a bit of a cliche. It may, however, assist you in better comprehending those terms.
Furthermore, you may utilize the book to study the written words when the test is approaching. That is a far better alternative than scrambling to locate new terms the night before the exam.
3. Experiment, But Don’t Go Overboard
So, whether you bring a notepad or download an app to learn new words, the only thing to do is to use the words in practice in real life. You may take on any issue or topic that was previously asked in the exam when it comes to speaking abilities. Then, for at least 2 minutes, attempt to talk about the issue using the new terminology you’ve learned.
Next, you must avoid exaggerating phrases in your Duolingo English Test Writing or Speaking since you may utilize a single advanced word. This is another great way to improve your vocabulary for the Duolingo English Test.
Most essential, avoid focusing too much on a single word by gathering a large number of similar sample phrases. Doing so, however, may be a waste of time since, if you want to learn, practicing the word a few times is sufficient.
4. Use Apps to Improve Your Vocabulary
Nowadays, everyone owns a smartphone, and there are a plethora of applications available on the Play Store/App Store that may assist us in improving our language skills.
The reason we recommend using apps to boost your vocabulary for Duolingo English Test speaking is that you may use them in your free time and immediately acquire new vocabulary terms.
As a result, it may save a lot of time, and it doesn’t even need to be added to your schedule since learning from them takes less time.
5. Use YouTube to Help You Understand
We all use YouTube for enjoyment. So it should not be a surprise if a large number of apps provide English lessons on the site.
Every such channel also discusses many academic vocabularies, including how to pronounce a word, as well as how to apply it in a sentence or phrase with examples.
It’s not simple to learn 2,000 rich words that are crucial for your Duolingo English Test vocabulary. You may wind up remembering those words. In the end, it may be of little use if you acquire vocabulary but are unable to use it properly in writing or speech.
6. Know What You’re Doing, But Don’t Memorize Everything
Words should be learned by heart and not memorized since a single word might have a variety of meanings. To put it simply, we may use the same word in different circumstances and have it imply different things at the end of the day.
The rationale is as simple as it seems: although learning a word is simple, the same word may not always have a single meaning.
The simplest approach to grasp this is to be familiar with homophones, which are words that have similar spelling and sound but distinct meanings.
7. Go Through Newspapers
Reading is the most efficient way to gain new terms, and it will also help you improve your Duolingo English Test speaking abilities. You may read news/articles every day by subscribing to a newspaper, either online or offline.
While you’re reading them, make a note of any academic terms you’re unfamiliar with and pay close attention if you observe a word being used in a new manner. This will assist you with a variety of Duolingo English Test topics. Then, in your dictionary, look up the definition of the term and write it down in your notebook.
8. Invest in a Dictionary
Keeping a compact, pocket-sized dictionary with you is a typical approach to acquiring new terminology for the Duolingo English Test.
If you don’t have time to acquire new vocabulary terms this way, now is the time to start. You may learn words from your dictionary in two ways.
To begin with, you may consult it whenever you come across a new term and look up its definition in the dictionary.
Second, you may begin memorizing the terms on the first page of the dictionary and work your way down to the final page.
You will be able to learn new terms every day in this manner. You may be able to read all of the terms in your dictionary in a few days or months, depending on how much time you dedicate each day.
However, remember to learn a word passionately for optimal learning. If you don’t grasp a term, just leave it out since learning a word improperly is far worse.
9. Watch Videos and Listen to Audio
Listening to others use an unknown term is the most effective way to learn how to use it. As a result, you may watch news stations, programs, YouTube shows, English movies, chat shows, and group conversations, among other things. You may also listen to audio files like songs, podcasts, and radio stations.
Furthermore, you might decide to listen to or see the things that interest you so that you do not get bored and quit on your objective to acquire new words.
10. Study Idioms and Connectives
It would be useful to use connectives and idiomatic expressions while speaking and writing about a subject. It makes you more fluent and knowledgeable in the use of the language.
However, make sure you just use them when necessary and don’t attempt to abuse them.
Duolingo English Test Vocabulary Wordlist
You must determine whether the word is a genuine English word or a created one in two questions on the Duolingo English exam.
Because the words often resemble English terms, it is important to pay close attention to spelling.
Because the words might sound similar to English terms, it’s also vital to practice listening.
A. Common Words
1. Advertising
obsession | fooled | now | free | synergy |
surging | beware | exclusive | proven | optimize |
pioneering | blinded | scarce | lucrative | promise |
unsurpassed | alarming | rare | unbelievable | profit |
confidential | devastating | immediately | bargain | commission |
bold | heartbreaking | instantly | double | quota |
tempting | hoax | hurry | affordable | pitch |
unconventional | prison | only | convert | leverage |
astonishing | revenge | limited | essential | opportunity |
epic | risky | impossible | detailed | actionable |
explosive | avoid | miracle | better | learnings |
secret | scary | temporary | new | viral |
unusual | backlash | tested | remarkable | disruption |
daring | costly | immediately | professional | holistic |
imagine | assault | bonus | best-selling | innovative |
discover | frantic | easy | guaranteed | seamless |
create | hazardous | advanced | unique | robust |
polarizing | untested | results | improved | granular |
inspire | impactful | effective | increase | snackable |
highest | lifetime | massive | expert | paradigm |
2. Arts
absorbing | boundless | delicate | meandering | realistic |
abstract | brilliant | dense | mosaic-like | refined |
acclaimed | candid | detailed | moving | refreshing |
accomplished | ceramic | infused | mysterious | remarkable |
adroit | characteristic | inspirational | mystical | resourceful |
aesthetic | classic | inspired | narrative | revealing |
aesthetically | collectible | instinctive | organic | disciplined |
aggressive | colorful | intellectual | original | disruptive |
appealing | complementary | intense | paradoxical | distinctive |
artistic | complex | intensive | passionate | distinguished |
astonishing | conceptual | interesting | peaceful | divine |
atmospheric | contemplative | intuitive | personal | dreamlike |
authentic | contemporary | inventive | phenomenal | dreamy |
avant-garde | controversial | labyrinthine | pictorial | dynamic |
award-winning | conversational | layered | playful | eclectic |
awe-inspiring | creative | lifelike | potent | elevated |
balanced | daring | literal | profound | elevating |
baroque | dazzling | luminous | provoking | emergent |
beautiful | decorative | lyrical | pure | emerging |
bold | thoughtful | mature | radiant | emotional |
enchanted | exotic | gorgeous | saturated | stimulating |
energetic | explosive | graceful | sculptural | stirring |
engaging | expressive | granular | semi-abstract | studied |
engrossing | extreme | honest | sensual | stunning |
enigmatic | fascinating | human | serene | sublime |
epochal | figural | hyper-creative | signature | substantive |
ethereal | figurative | imaginative | simple | supple |
evocative | fluid | impassioned | skilled | surreal |
exceptional | freelance | impeccable | soft | symbolic |
touching | fresh | romantic | sparse | tactile |
traditional | unique | visual | spiritual | talented |
tranquil | universal | voyeuristic | universal | tasteful |
unconventional | unpredictable | voyeuristic | unpredictable | textile |
unexpected | varied | unforgettable | varied | provoking |
unforgettable | visionary | unique | visionary | timeless |
3. Body Language
action | strong | explain | jerky | boredom |
body language | nodded | understand | wisp | fear |
bow | smooth | communication | nonverbal | sadness |
curtsy | pointed | unbelievable | quick | slouching |
expression | controlled | squint | pointing | understanding |
genuflection | bowed | excited | fluid | clenching |
high sign | effortless | curious | nod | disgust |
indication | shook | glare | regimented | surprise |
intimation | sway | gaze | frown | wringing |
kinesics | patted | kick | smile | handshake |
mime | bounce | wave | amplify | posture |
motion | beckoned | bang | threatening | perception |
nod | rhythm | token | disapproval | respect |
pantomime | winked | muscle | anger | listen |
reminder | stagger | rock | compassion | shush |
salute | shrugged | grind | pursing | twitch |
shrug | burst | crossed | drumming | v-sign |
sign | hugged | zip | tapping | snigger |
sign language | lull | wink | yawning | avoidance |
signal | waved | yank | joy | demeanor |
4. Pandemic
epidemic | plague | bacteria | contact tracing | restricted |
pest | contagion | comorbidity | super-spreader | shielding |
murrain | ailment | conjunctivitis | contagious | spread |
affection | scourge | coronavirus | infectious | symptoms |
blight | rife | dysgeusia | antigen | surge |
pervasive | majority | epidemiologists | asymptomatic | swab |
common | widespread | hygiene | antibody | symptomatic |
unanimous | overall | immunity | case | triage |
pop | household | incidence | cluster | testing |
everyday | present | disease | cocooning | clinical |
contemporary | preponderant | morbidity | transmission | virologist |
dominant | usual | mortality | communicable | vulnerable |
characteristic | well-known | myalgia | compromised | omicron |
communal | illness | pandemic | contact | delta |
pestilence | infection | distancing | containment | frontliners |
affliction | prevailing | plasma | disinfectant | sanitizer |
curse | popular | prevalence | diagnostics | ventilators |
prevalent | infirmity | quarantine | influenza | humidifier |
general | malady | self-isolation | immunization | circuit breaker |
universal | sickness | serology | incubation | protection |
familiar | public | treatment | infodemic | unprecedented |
current | received | vaccine | lockdown | syndrome |
predominant | ruling | virus | masks | fatality |
typical | anosmia | fomite | wellbeing | positive |
shared | antibodies | outbreak | respiratory | negative |
5. Clothes
abaya | jumper | swimsuits | evening dress | slacks |
amoral | jumpsuit | tanktop | evening gown | sleeve |
apparel | long-sleeve top | tee shirt | garter-belt | slip |
apron | lycra shorts | tennis shorts | handbag | stockings |
ascot tie | overall | three-piece suit | hat | sweater |
attire | pajamas | tie | headband | swimsuits |
balaclava | pant | trench-coat | hoodie | tracksuit |
ball gown | polo shirt | tuxedo | jacket | trouser |
bandanna | poncho | underpants | jeans | t-shirt |
bathrobe | pullover | vest | jumper | turtle neck |
belt | raincoat | waist-coat | knickers | undershirts |
blazer | running shorts | windbreakers | lace | uniform |
bomber jacket | scarf | apron | ladieswear | veil |
bow-tie | shirt | bathrobe | leggings | wedding dress |
cap | shorts | bikini | lingerie | zipper |
cardigan | singlet | blouse | maternity dress | beanies |
cargo pants | ski-jacket | boots | mini-skirt | cardigans |
down jacket | sleeveless-shirt | boxers | mittens | down jacket |
down vest | socks | bra | panty | down vest |
gloves | sportcoat | braces | purse | earmuffs |
hat | suit | cardigan | robe | fleece jackets |
Hawaiian shirt | sweatband | coat | saree | gloves |
jacket | sweater | collar | scarf | jackets |
jeans | sweatpant | dress | shorts | jeans |
jogging suit | sweatshirt | dungarees | skirts | long coat |
6. Education
imperative | foundation | ornament | rudder | sophisticated |
focused | standard | noteworthy | talent | determined |
momentous | competitive | ingenious | wise | successful |
higher education | secondary education | literacy | co-education | qualification |
pace | highly educated | knowledge | private | diversity |
informal education | financial | socially independent | institution | non-profit |
scholarship | schooling | undergraduate | formal education | premise |
academic | sharp | immense | exoteric | influence |
student | achieve | communication | grade | kindergarten |
preschool | graduate | valuable | online education | elementary education |
curriculum | essential | devoted | informal | degree |
attend | medicine | didactics | pedagogics | pedagogy |
academic | primary | higher education | higher learning | enlightenment |
campus | principal | coaching | conditioning | pedantry |
curriculum | professor | development | direction | bookishness |
degree | revise | edification | enlightenment | ignorance |
economics | science | cultivation | preparation | illiteracy |
engineering | secondary | guidance | nurturance | illiterateness |
graduate | seminar | improvement | culture | comprehensive |
lecture | tutor | edification | reading | subject |
7. Environment
ambient | poaching | greenhouse | landslide | contaminant |
atmosphere | activists | stratosphere | natural | contamination |
backdrop | aqueduct | disaster | ozone | deforestation |
background | balance | ecosystem | poisonous | disposable |
climate | biodegradable | evaporation | endangered species | diversity |
clime | climate | power | research | ecology |
context | coastal | rainforest | ecology | ecosystem |
element | contaminated | recycle | aquifer | emission |
geography | decay | sludge | atmosphere | endangered |
habitat | emissions | solar | biodegradable | energy |
location | endangered | species | biodiversity | environment |
microenvironment | scientist | surface | carbon dioxide | environmentalist |
place | erosion | tectonic | carbon monoxide | erosion |
position | extinct | tidal | carcinogen | extinct |
situation | famine | toxic | climate | extinction |
space | fertilizer | unleaded | coal | fossil fuel |
status | fossil | untapped | compost (noun) | geothermal |
condensation | genetically | wetlands | compost (verb) | solar |
acid | global | wind | conservation | sustainable |
industrial | greenhouse | pollute | conservationist | toxic |
global warming | herbicide | ozone layer | radiation | toxic waste |
green (adjective) | landfill | pesticide | rain forest | waste |
greenhouse effect | methane | petroleum | recycle | wetland |
groundwater | nuclear energy | pollutant | renewable | wildlife |
habitat | organic | pollution | smog | windmill |
8. Films
actor | first-rate | second-rate | suspenseful | extra |
bloopers | comical | flawed | sentimental | sequel |
director | insightful | violent | low-budget | screenplay |
dubbing | clever | moronic | dramatic | stunt |
flash-forward | charming | third-rate | highly-charged | genre |
flashback | charismatic | juvenile | fantasy | nominated |
outtakes | enjoyable | boring | slow | box office |
premiere | absorbing | static | picaresque | star |
prequel | hilarious | senseless | oddball | critic |
producer | uproarious | distasteful | romantic | premiere |
reel | original | ordinary | satirical | scene |
rehearsal | tender | disgusting | fast-moving | part |
scene | synopsis | intriguing | disappointing | frame |
screenplay | visual effects | powerful | bloody | audition |
scriptwriter | voice over | fascinating | silly | adventure |
sequel | pleasant | tired | unpretentious | animation |
sound effects | surprising | predictable | legendary | biography |
stuntman | dazzling | stupid | incredibly tiresome | comedy |
cameraman | sensitive | brutal | big-budget | detective |
subtitles | riveting | confused | wacky | documentary |
thought-provoking | uninteresting | imaginative | weak | drama |
trite | outdated | animated | horror | fantasy |
film | dreadful | romantic | musical | film noir |
uneven | bland | science fiction | mystery | foreign |
sepia | cliché ridden | silent | propaganda | historical |
9. Food
chicken | a la carte | cafe | deli | eat |
coffee | a la mode | cafeteria | delicatessen | eggs |
drinks menu | appetizer | cake | delicious | entree |
cola | beef | candle | dessert | fish |
cold | beverage | cashier | dine | food |
wine | bill | centerpiece | diner | fork |
condiments | bistro | chair | dining | french fries |
cook | bowl | chef | dish | fruit |
spill | braised | chicken | dishwasher | lemonade |
spoon | bread | coffee | doggie bag | lettuce |
vegan option | breakfast | cola | dressing | lunch |
starters | brunch | cold | ice | main course |
diner | butter | condiments | ice cubes | maitre d’ |
dining | glass | cook | iced | manager |
cutlery | gourmand | cooked | ingredients | meal |
steak | gourmet | course | ketchup | meat |
eat | grilled | cream | kitchen | medium |
fish eggs | hamburger | credit card | knife | menu |
food | headwaiter | cutlery | napkin | milk |
fork fries | high tea | utensils | noodles | mug |
specials | hors d’oeuvre | cashier | onion | mustard |
fruit | hostess | vegetables | order | waiter |
glass | hot | ingredients | party | seafood |
grilled | dinner | ketchup | pasta | seared |
hamburger | dish | kitchen | pepper | server |
pay | dishwasher | knife | plate | side order |
headwaiter | doggie bag | lemonade | platter | staff |
plate | well-done | booking | pop | tip |
platter | pasta | cheeseburger | manager | silverware |
high tea | waitress | lunch | meal | breakfast |
hostess | pepper | main course | set menu | brunch |
hot | rare | bill | meat | napkin |
ice cubes | saucer | bistro | mug | reservation |
sugar | tomato | boiled | mustard | soggy |
order | halal | spicy | menu | beef |
roasted | dessert | charge | table | barbeque |
vegetarian | soup | pizza | milk | vinegar |
salad | special | kosher | chef | beverage |
soda | spices | medium | appetizer | bowl |
10. People
comrade | candidate | A-list | commoners | depopulate |
co-worker | celebrity | aristocracy | commons | unpeople |
roommate | chatterbox | best | crowd | acquaintance |
pen-pal | citizen | choice | herd | adversary |
fair-weather | classmate | corps d’elite | hoi polloi | agitator |
acquaintance | climber | cream | mass | anarchist |
buddy | collector | elect | millions | retiree |
boyfriend | connoisseur | elite | mob | buddy |
soul mate | creator | fat | multitude | bather |
folks | criminal | flower | plebeians | brute |
humanity | customer | pick | plebs | buyer |
humankind | cyclist | pink | populace | burglar |
public | bourgeoisie | pride | public | camper |
species | middle class | upper crust | rank and file | deceased |
world | blood | unwashed | cattle | defendant |
community | clan | bourgeoisie | proletariat | delegate |
society | family | middle class | rabble | demonstrator |
crowd | folks | gentility | rabblement | diver |
masses | house | gentlefolk | stranger | dreamer |
mob | kin | gentry | riffraff | driver |
populace | kindred | haute monde | rout | enemy |
proletariat | kinfolk | nobility | scum | evacuee |
rabble | royalty | patriciate | wounded person | expat |
rabblement | society | peerage | trash | expert |
riffraff | inhabit | quality | listener | idol |
handyman | juror | member | loser | immigrant |
hero heroine | killer | movie star | pal | internet user |
hiker | king queen | murderer | partner | interpreter |
historian | knitter | observer | party animal | plaintiff |
hitch-hiker | learner | onlooker | passenger | player |
homeless person | lecturer | opponent | patient | prisoner |
housemate | liar | owner | pedestrian | protagonist |
reader | skater | striker | teammate | protestor |
recruit | skier | strikebreaker | tenant | vacationer |
renter | sleeper | supporter | thief | vagabond |
resident | social climber | survivor | tourist | veteran |
revolutionary | speaker | suspect | traitor | victim |
rioter | spectator | swimmer | translator | volunteer |
roommate | spy | weight lifter | traveler | voter |
runner | walker | whisperer | winner | witness |
11. Plants
acorn | cactus | garden | lamina | stipule |
agriculture | calyx | germinate | lanceolate | stoma |
alfalfa | canopy | ginkgo | lateral bud | style |
alternate | carpel | grain | lead scar | succulents |
angiosperm | cleft leaf | grass | leaf | sunlight |
annual | clover | grove | leaflet | opposite |
anther | composite | grow | legume | ovary |
meristem | compound | guard cell | lily | palm |
autotroph | cone | gum | lobed | palmate |
axil | cork | hardy | margin | parted leaf |
auxiliary bud | corm | hastate | meristem | peduncle |
bud | corolla | herb | midrib | perennial |
bamboo | crenate leaf | horsetail | monocot | perfect flower |
bark | deciduous | horticulture | moss | petal |
bean | dentate leaf | hybrid | nectar | petiole |
berry | dicot | imperfect | needle | petrified wood |
biennial | embryo | incomplete | netted | phloem |
blade | emergents | inflorescence | node | photosynthesis |
blossom | endosperm | internode | nut | pinnate |
botany | entire | ivy | rachis | pistil |
bract | epicotyl | jungle | rain forest | pith |
branch | evergreen | juniper | reniform | plumule |
bromeliad | fern | kapok tree | resin | poison ivy |
brush | fertilizer | kelp | reticulate | pollen |
bud | filament | kudzu | rings | pollinate |
bulb | flora | sap | root | prickle |
bulbel | flower | sapling | root cap | pulse |
bush | foliage | seaweed | root hairs | vegetable |
shamrock | forest | seed | root tip | vegetation |
shoot | frond | seed pod | rootstock | vein |
shrub | fruit | seedling | weed | venation |
simple leaf | thorn | sepal | whorled | vine |
soil | toothed | sprout | wood | tuber |
spine | tree | stalk | woody | xerophyte |
spore | tree fern | trunk | xylem | yucca |
12. Technology
access | account | activity | administrative | advantage |
back up | bandwidth | banner | basics | benefit |
cad | cam | camcorder | camera | capabilities |
daemon | data | database | debug | decipher |
edit | educate | effective | efficiency | |
face book | fax | fiber optic | field | file |
geek squad | generate | gif | gradual | graphics |
hackers | hand-held | hard disk | hard drive | hardware |
icons | infiltrate | information | informative | innovation |
job | join | journalism | journalist | joystick |
keep track of | keyboard | keypad | keyword | kind |
landscape | laptop | laser | layout | learning |
mainframe | market | material | matrix | measurement |
navigate | networks | new | newsgroup | newspaper |
obsession | offline | on line | operate | operating system |
password | performance | personal | phishing | photography |
quality | quantity | query | questions | queue |
radio | random | ranking | rate | record |
safety | satellite | save | scan | screen |
tech | technology | technophobic | telecom | telemarketer |
u tube | uncover | understanding | unusual | update |
value | variety | various | video | video conference |
warranty | wave | webmaster | web page | web site |
animate | reference | history | applications | registry |
blue tooth | script | input | bookmarks | search |
capture | television | junk mail | careers | terminal |
delivery | user-id | opportunity | dependency | user name |
electronic | virus | popularity | electronics | vision |
firewalls | wireless | listserv | flexibility | word |
B. Prepositions
In English, there are around 150 prepositions. When you consider the thousands of other terms, this is a pretty modest number (nouns, verbs, etc.).
Prepositions are crucial terms. Individual prepositions are used more often than other terms. The prepositions of, to, and in are among the top 10 most frequently used terms in the English language.
A list of 70 of the most popular one-word prepositions follows. There are several meanings for many of these prepositions.
about | above | across | after | under |
against | along | among | around | up to |
at | before | behind | between | until |
beyond | but | by | concerning | with |
despite | down | during | except | up |
following | for | from | in | within |
including | into | like | near | upon |
of | off | on | onto | without |
out | over | past | plus | via |
since | throughout | to | towards | through |
C. Idioms
Idioms, proverbs, and phrases in English are common in daily conversation. They often appear in written and spoken English. You’ll need to learn the meaning and application of each idiom since they don’t always make sense literally.
While this may appear to be taking a lot of effort, studying idioms is enjoyable, particularly when comparing English idioms to idioms in your own tongue.
Using common idioms and phrases may make your English seem more natural. The tables below list the idioms in order of their prevalence in American English. You may start by learning the most common English idioms since you’ll hear them a lot whether watching English movies or TV shows or visiting America.
Relax when you’ve mastered things. These idioms are neither unusual nor obsolete, so you may use them with native English speakers from any English-speaking country.
Below are the commonly used idiomatic expressions:
Idiom | Meaning | Usage |
---|---|---|
A blessing in disguise | an excellent thing that at first seemed to be a terrible one | as a sentence component |
A dime a dozen | something usual | as a sentence component |
Beat around the bush | Fail to express yourself because it is unpleasant. | as a sentence component |
Better late than never | Arrive late rather than not at all | on its own |
Bite the bullet | To finish something because it is inevitable | as a sentence component |
Break a leg | Wish for success | on its own |
Call it a day | Put down something you’re working on. | as a sentence component |
Cut somebody some slack | Don’t be too harsh on yourself. | as a sentence component |
Cutting corners | Performing a task in a substandard manner in order to save time or money | as a sentence component |
Easy does it | Take it easy. | on its own |
Get out of hand | Become uncontrollable | as a sentence component |
Get something out of your system | So you can go on, do the thing you’ve been yearning to do. | as a sentence component |
Get your act together | Work harder or go. | on its own |
Give someone the benefit of the doubt | You should believe what someone says. | as a sentence component |
Go back to the drawing board | Begin again | as a sentence component |
Hang in there | Don’t quit | on its own |
Hit the sack | Go to bed; have some sleep | as a sentence component |
It’s not rocket science | It’s not difficult. | on its own |
Let someone off the hook | to absolve someone of responsibility for a wrongdoing | as a sentence component |
To make a long story short | Briefly describe things | as a sentence component |
Miss the boat | It’s already too late. | as a sentence component |
No pain, no gain | You must persevere to achieve your goals. | on its own |
On the ball | Performing well | as a sentence component |
Pull someone’s leg | to make a joke on someone | as a sentence component |
Pull yourself together | Calm down | on its own |
So far, so good | So far, everything is going nicely. | on its own |
Speak of the devil | The man we were just discussing arrived! | on its own |
That’s the last straw | Running out of patience | on its own |
The best of both worlds | A perfect scenario | as a sentence component |
Time flies when you’re having fun | When you’re having fun, you don’t notice how long anything lasts. | on its own |
To get bent out of shape | to be irritable or annoyed | as a sentence component |
To make matters worse | exacerbate an issue | as a sentence component |
Under the weather | to become ill | as a sentence component |
Cross the bridge when we get there | Let’s not discuss that issue right now. | on its own |
Wrap your head around something | Comprehend something difficult | as a sentence component |
You can say that again | That is correct, and I agree. | on its own |
Your guess is as good as mine | I’m not sure. | on its own |
D. Collocations
Below are brief listings of frequent collocations to help you learn more about them. Collocations related to certain words may be found in several reputable learners’ dictionaries.
Collocation dictionaries are also available, albeit they are harder to come by.
do | make | catch | time |
---|---|---|---|
do your hair | make a difference | catch a thief | run out of time |
do your homework | make a mess | catch fire | save time |
do your best | make money | catch sight of | spare time |
do your hair | make progress | catch the flu | spend some time |
do someone a favor | make room | catch fire | take your time |
take | pay | come | business |
---|---|---|---|
take a rest | pay cash | come early | cease trading |
take a seat | pay interest | come first | chair a meeting |
take a taxi | pay the bill | come into view | close a deal |
take an exam | pay the price | come last | close a meeting |
take notes | pay your respects | come late | come to the point |
get | go | save | quantifiers |
---|---|---|---|
get a job | go bankrupt | go bankrupt | a ball of string |
get a shock | go blind | go blind | a bunch of carrots |
get angry | go crazy | go crazy | a bar of chocolate |
get divorced | go dark | go dark | a cube of sugar |
get drunk | go deaf | go deaf | a bottle of water |
E. Phrasal Verbs
A phrasal verb is constructed by combining a regular verb with an adverb or a preposition to form a completely new verbal phrase. A phrasal verb’s meaning is frequently unconnected to the meanings of the words that make it up, so think of it as a completely new and independent term.
Phrasal verbs behave similarly to other verbs in terms of conjugation and placement when employed in a phrase. However, they do have particular constraints concerning word order, which we discuss further below.
Phrasal verbs may be conjugated into any verb form. Therefore they can be used everywhere a regular verb can be.
Phrases | Meaning |
---|---|
blow up | burst |
bring up | bring up a subject or topic |
call-off | withdraw; revoke |
do-over | re-do a task or project |
fill out | sign or complete a form |
fill up | fill to the top |
find out | explore or uncover |
give back | return an object or a favor |
hand in | turn in or submit an assignment |
hang up | end the call |
hold up | postpone or prolong |
leave out | omit |
look over | inspect, verify |
lookup | scan the list |
makeup | make up a narrative or tell a fib |
make out | listen or comprehend |
pick out | decide or select |
pick up | lift something off something else |
point out | remove something from another |
put away | preserve or conserve |
put off | withhold |
put on | wear some clothing |
read over | browse or explore |
set up | to start, to organize |
takedown | jot down your thoughts |
F. Descriptive Words
The most popular sort of descriptive word is adjectives. They show us how beautiful a sunset is or how acrobatic a cat is.
A list of adjective examples may be found here.
acrobatic | weathered | freckle-faced | self-centered | alive |
adorable | lanky | hard-hearted | short-tempered | ancient |
adventurous | lazy | tattered | high-heeled | bumpy |
brave | limp | hard-nosed | sure-footed | busy |
bright | luxurious | verdant | ice-cold | combative |
brilliant | mediocre | heavy-handed | thin-skinned | cotton |
concrete | mellow | sophisticated | left-handed | dangerous |
conventional | miserable | baby-faced | tight-fisted | dusty |
delirious | nocturnal | stunning | life-giving | elderly |
foolhardy | ordinary | bow-legged | adaptable | expensive |
gregarious | organic | thorny | long-legged | graceful |
grim | ornate | responsible | active | granite |
handsome | powerless | broken-hearted | long-winded | handsome |
handy | practical | sensible;e | agreeable | hollow |
intelligent | precious | bull-headed | next-door | lazy |
intrepid | questionable | optimistic | encouraging | low |
joyful | quirky | candy-stripped | pigeon-toed | massive |
jubilant | radiant | trustworthy | curious | melodic |
keen | rustic | four-sided | red-blooded | minuscule |
kooky | sly | immature | diplomatic | new |
G. Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms are words that have the equivalent or almost the same meaning as another term.
Antonyms are words that have the same meaning as one another but have the opposite connotation.
Selecting the appropriate synonym improves the quality of your work. Learning frequent antonyms improves your language skills and broadens your vocabulary.
Word | Synonym | Antonym |
---|---|---|
answer | respond | ask |
bad | evil | good |
beautiful | handsome | ugly |
begin | start | finish |
big | huge | small |
clever | smart | dumb |
cold | cool | hot |
come | arrive | leave |
correct | right | wrong |
dangerous | risky | safe |
easy | simple | difficult |
fair | just | unfair |
fast | quick | slow |
fat | chubby | skinny |
friend | pal | enemy |
happy | glad | sad |
hard | difficult | easy |
love | like | hate |
quiet | silent | noisy |
repair | fix | demolish |
show | hide | display |
stay | exit | leave |
true | authentic | false |
H. Commonly Confused Words
Some words have the same appearance, while others have the same sound. It might be difficult to tell the difference between these related terms.
In this handout, we’ve included definitions for some of the most typically misunderstood word pairings, as well as phrases that demonstrate them in context.
These are the top ten most perplexing word pairings, as determined by us, are listed below in alphabetical order:
accept vs. except |
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dessert vs. desert |
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there vs. their |
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principle vs. principal |
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advice vs. advise |
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borrow vs. lend |
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despite vs. although |
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personnel vs. personal |
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assure vs. ensure |
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affect vs. effect |
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I. Transition Words
Constructing effective transitions typically requires identifying words or phrases that express to the reader the logical links you wish to convey. This table should help you discover these words or phrases.
If you need help identifying a word, phrase, or sentence to act as a transition, consult the table.
Look in the table’s left column for the logical connection you want to communicate. Then seek words or sentences that illustrate this logical connection in the table’s right column.
Remember that each of these words or phrases may indicate something different. A dictionary or writer’s guide may help you decipher a term or phrase.
To emphasize |
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To add detail |
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To show contrast |
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To show order |
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To show cause and effect |
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To compare |
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To express opinion |
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To illustrate |
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Final Thoughts
Learn new words slowly. Be patient and keep working on your vocabulary. An average individual can learn 5-10 words every day. But it’s better to learn five correctly than 10.
Remember:
- You will undoubtedly make errors.
- The Duolingo English Test isn’t looking for flawless performance.
- They’re interested in what you can do well, not what you haven’t mastered completely.
- Your coherence will be at stake if you use terminology wrongly, and you may lose points as a result.
- Make the most of what you already know.
Additional FAQs – Duolingo English Test Vocabulary
Is there a Duolingo English Test vocabulary test?
No, the Duolingo English Test does not have a vocabulary exam. A large vocabulary, on the other hand, may help you do well in the test.
To prepare for the DET test, you may use our collection of vocabulary terms. (They are all listed in this article below).
Is the Duolingo English Test a valid measure of English proficiency?
The Duolingo English Test is dependable and safe thanks to Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence technologies.
The test-taker must follow the recommendations and obey specific regulations, such as leaving the face exposed, not using any suspicious things while taking the exam, and not communicating with a second person while taking the test, among others.
For authentication, the ID and pictures are taken remotely.
What is the Degree of Difficulty of the Duolingo English Test Questions?
The Duolingo English Test has questions ranging in difficulty from easy to moderate, with each question becoming more difficult as candidates reply.
Several types of questions are asked in each subject, such as listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Some questions are difficult to answer, while others are straightforward.
What Kinds of Questions Are Asked in the Duolingo English Test’s Interview Section?
The Duolingo English Test’s interview section is used to assess the candidate’s English speaking abilities. You’ll be asked to talk about a subject in this section of the exam.
For at least 30 seconds, the test-taker must talk on a specific subject. When taking this part of the exam, the candidate’s voice must be clear, and he or she must adhere to the guidelines set out by the speaking section.
Is the Duolingo English Test’s Speaking Component Performed Separately?
The whole Duolingo English Test is completed in about an hour on the same day. The speaking element of the Duolingo English Test referred to as the interview, is covered in the second half of the test.
This component is equally significant since it evaluates the candidate’s speaking abilities.