CELPIP Writing Course · Lesson 7 of 9
Precise Vocabulary Without Risk
By CELPass Editorial Team · 2 min read · Updated
Raters reward vocabulary that is precise and fits the context. That rarely means rare words; it means the right word instead of a vague one.
Replace the vague words
| Vague | More precise (depends on context) |
|---|---|
| good | reliable, convenient, affordable, helpful |
| bad | inconvenient, unsafe, disappointing, faulty |
| big | significant, spacious, considerable |
| thing | issue, feature, item, option |
| get | receive, obtain, become, arrive |
Collocations: words that go together
Natural word pairs score better than individual impressive words: make a complaint, resolve an issue, raise awareness, a heavy workload, a tight budget, take into account. Learn them in phrases, by topic.
Avoid risky words
A wrong advanced word hurts more than a correct simple one. If you are not sure of a word's meaning or spelling (remember there is no spell checker), use one you know. Accuracy first, then range.
Key points
- Swap vague words for precise ones.
- Learn collocations by topic.
- Don't use a word you're unsure of.
Exercise
Replace the vague word in each sentence.
- "The new schedule is very bad for parents."
- "This is a big problem for our street."
- "I got your letter yesterday."
Show answers
- "The new schedule is very inconvenient for parents."
- "This is a serious issue for our street."
- "I received your letter yesterday."
Practise with free questions
Free questions in the CELPIP format, with answers and no account needed. Try a few now, while the lesson is fresh.
All lessons in this course
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