PTE Academic Vocabulary
Master PTE Academic Vocabulary with expert strategies, sample questions and AI-powered practice. Free guide with score-improving techniques.
PTE Academic Vocabulary — Word Power for a High Score
A rich academic vocabulary is one of the most reliable predictors of a high PTE Academic score. The exam rewards precise, varied and contextually appropriate word choice.
High-Frequency Academic Word Families
| Verb | Noun | Adjective | Adverb |
|---|---|---|---|
| analyse | analysis | analytical | analytically |
| demonstrate | demonstration | demonstrative | — |
| establish | establishment | established | — |
| indicate | indication | indicative | — |
| interpret | interpretation | interpretative | — |
| signify | significance | significant | significantly |
| constitute | constitution | constitutional | — |
Useful Collocations for Essays
- Rise: rise sharply / steadily / dramatically / slightly
- Argument: put forward an argument / support an argument / challenge an argument
- Research: carry out research / conduct research / research suggests / research indicates
- Impact: have a significant impact on / pose a serious threat / bring about change
- Solutions: implement a solution / address the issue / tackle the problem / take measures
Synonyms for Common Overused Words
| Weak Word | Better Alternatives |
|---|---|
| good | beneficial, advantageous, effective, valuable, significant |
| bad | detrimental, harmful, adverse, problematic, damaging |
| important | crucial, vital, significant, fundamental, essential |
| show | demonstrate, indicate, illustrate, reveal, highlight |
| say | argue, suggest, propose, assert, contend, maintain |
| big | substantial, considerable, extensive, significant, major |
Pro tip: Learn vocabulary in context, not as isolated words. When you encounter a new word, note: the collocations it appears in, the word family it belongs to, and two example sentences from academic texts.
Vocabulary Building Strategies
- Learn 5 new words per day from the Academic Word List (AWL)
- Use new words in a sentence immediately after learning them
- Review vocabulary using spaced repetition (review after 1 day, 3 days, 1 week)
- Read academic articles daily and mark unfamiliar words for study
- Watch TED Talks with English subtitles — academic vocabulary in natural context
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I improve my PTE Academic Vocabulary score?
To improve your PTE Academic Vocabulary score: (1) practise with real exam-format questions daily, (2) review detailed feedback after each attempt, (3) focus on your weakest areas first, (4) take full timed mock tests to build exam stamina, and (5) study high-frequency vocabulary and grammar patterns.
How many questions are in the PTE Academic Vocabulary test?
The PTE Academic Vocabulary section contains multiple question types. Our mock tests replicate the exact format and number of questions used in the real exam.
What is the best way to practise PTE Academic Vocabulary?
The most effective way to practise PTE Academic Vocabulary is through AI-powered practice that gives instant, detailed feedback. Identify your pattern of mistakes, focus your practice on those, and track your improvement with regular mock tests.