IELTS Collocations: Key Phrases to Achieve a Higher Band Score

IELTS collocations play a vital role in the IELTS exam. Many examiners use collocation as a standard measure to evaluate the knowledge and precision of the English language among non-English speaking candidates. 

Collocation in IELTS helps test-takers develop a natural flow, consistency, and confidence in the English language. However, many candidates use memorising methods to learn collocations for the IELTS exam. Every IELTS collocation havetheir individual meaning and uses patterns; therefore, it is important to understand the proper use of collocations in sentences naturally to avoid major mistakes. 

In this article, we have covered the definition, examples, and use of IELTS collocation for the Writing and Speaking sections. Read the complete article to explore the top 20 must-know IELTS collocations essential to boost your IELTS band score.

Also Read: IELTS Preparation Online - The Best Solution 

What Are Collocations in IELTS and Why Are They Important?

What are collocations? Collocations are just words that naturally go together in English. Most people use collocations in their daily lives regularly without realising. For example, we say “catch a cold,” “make a mistake,” or “heavy rain.” These combinations just sound right. If you say “make a mistake” or “strong rain,” it feels off, even if the grammar is okay. Collocations help in making your English sound more natural and fluent.

Also Read: IELTS Online Free Preparation Course

Explanation of How IELTS Examiners Assess Lexical Resource?

Both the Speaking and Writing sections use the Lexical Resource to measure how well you use words. The IELTS examiners are not looking for rare or complicated words. They check whether you can use the right word in the right way. Candidates who can use collocations correctly show that they are not just memorising IELTS vocabulary; they actually understand how English works.

Why Using Natural Word Combinations Improves Scores?

Using natural word pairs can make your English writing and speaking clearer and smoother. It shows that you have a controlled command of the English language and need no prior translation in the mind while speaking. 

For example, saying “take responsibility” sounds much better than saying “carry responsibility”. These little things might seem small, but they can make the difference between a Band 6.5 and a Band 7.5.

Also Read: IELTS Band Score Calculator

Examples for Scoring Band 8+ IELTS Band Score Answers

Here are a few collocations that show up often in high-scoring responses:

• Break a habit: “I finally managed to break the habit of procrastinating.”
• Highly competitive: “The university I applied to is highly competitive.”
• Fast-paced lifestyle: “Most people in big cities live a fast-paced lifestyle.”
• Play a crucial role: “Social media plays a crucial role in how we connect with others.”
• Strongly recommend: “I would strongly recommend this book to anyone who likes historical fiction.”

Do not force English words in your answers. Just be aware of them, and when you practise speaking or writing. Try using the ones that come naturally to you while writing or speaking. Eventually, you will improve your skills and will express yourself naturally. 

Also Read: IELTS Exam Material & Resources - Study Abroad

Top Collocation Patterns You Must Know for IELTS Success

Let’s look at the most common types that actually show up in IELTS writing and speaking, with examples you can relate to.

IELTS vocabulary is an important part of the IELTS test pattern. However, learning new words without understanding their proper use is not beneficial in improving English language skills. Therefore, it is important to understand the usage pattern of various words naturally within sentences. 

A proper use of IELTS collocations makes the answers more fluent, polished, and accurate. Some of the most common types of collocation patterns for IELTS writing and speaking are as follows: 

• Verb + Noun
• Verb + Adverb
• Adverb + Adjective
• Noun + Noun (including collective nouns)
• Verb + Prepositional Phrase
• Adjective + Noun

Some common examples of each top collocation pattern you must know for a high IELTS band score are as follows: 

20 High-Scoring Collocations for IELTS Writing Task 2

Here's the list of 20 collocations to boost your IELTS Writing Task 2 score:

Common Mistakes to Avoid with IELTS Collocations

Making mistakes is the process of learning! Collocations for IELTS are not only about learning and memorising new phrases and words. The main focus lies on the proper use of every collocation naturally within the sentences while writing and speaking. However, many candidates make small mistakes that can result in a reduction of the total IELTS score. Therefore, it is important to avoid such mistakes to improve the average band score. Here are some common mistakes candidates should avoid with IELTS collocations:

• Avoid Repetition: Stop using the same words and phrases repeatedly. Instead, try to use synonyms or antonyms to indicate similar meaning. 
• Use Formal Language: Do not use casual language while appearing for the IELTS writing or speaking. Only use formal language to enhance answer quality and test requirements. 
• Use Precise Vocabulary: Do not use vague words. Always select your words precisely to maintain necessary clarity and precision. 
• Avoid Abbreviations: Do not use abbreviations such as “ASAP” or “etc”. Use complete full forms like “as soon as possible” or “and so on” for a better understanding of the examiner. 

Also Read: How to Improve IELTS Writing Task 2 Score: Important Tips

Expert Tips for Using Collocations Correctly in IELTS Writing

If you really want to make your writing stand out in the IELTS exam, using collocations naturally is one of the smartest ways to do it. Below are a few tips that actually work—practical things you can do every day to get better without feeling overwhelmed.

1. Contextual Use of Collocation: Try to understand the meaning of each collocation and use them naturally in sentence making. Do not memorise them. Read their uses in different sentence forms. Use them while practicing for the IELTS Speaking and writing sections.

2. Use Topic-Specific Collocations in Writing Task 2: The IELTS Writing Task 2 has numerous topics based on education, environment, health, technology, etc. Learn common collocations for each topic to improve the natural flow of the sentences. 

3. Read High-Scoring Sample Essays Regularly: This is one of the best habits you can build. When you read Band 8 or 9 essays, don’t just look at the structure; notice the word combinations too. Underline the collocations you see, then try using them in your practice.

4. Keep a Collocation Journal or Vocabulary Log: Whenever you come across a good phrase, whether in reading, practice papers, or even videos, write it down in one place. You can also write down the meaning of different IELTS collocations along with relevant examples to improve your knowledge. 

Important Resources to Read About IELTS:

Conclusion

Mastering the collocation for IELTS can help you develop a natural flow to your answer for the IELTS Writing and Speaking components. Greater familiarity with numerous words can improve your English language knowledge and help you score better in the IELTS exam. However, it is very important to learn the real meaning and use patterns in your daily life and academic work to improve clarity and precision. 

If you are an IELTS aspirant and planning to apply for the IELTS 2025, book a free 1:1 counselling session with upGrad's experienced advisors. Get expert tips and personalised advice to help you reach your goal of studying at a top medical school.