IELTS Speaking · Vocabulary · Band
Band 9 vocabulary for IELTS Speaking
Last updated 2 September 2026
In short
Sophisticated, natural language used with full flexibility. These 13 words are pitched at Band 9 of the IELTS Speaking Lexical Resource scale. Learn each one with its meaning, pronunciation, example sentences and natural collocations.
Word list
All 13 words in this collection, with meanings and example sentences.
- alleviate
- To make pain, suffering, or a problem less severe.
- “Painkillers can alleviate the symptoms.”
- cohesion
- The state of forming a united whole; unity within a group.
- “Community events strengthen social cohesion.”
- disseminate
- To spread information or knowledge widely.
- “Universities disseminate research through journals and conferences.”
- marginalise
- To treat a person or group as insignificant or push them to the edge of society.
- “The policy risks marginalising vulnerable groups.”
- mitigate
- To make something bad less severe or harmful.
- “Planting trees can help mitigate climate change.”
- philanthropy
- The practice of giving money and time to help improve the lives of others.
- “The foundation is known for its philanthropy.”
- pristine
- In its original, unspoilt condition; spotlessly clean.
- “The reserve protects a stretch of pristine coastline.”
- recuperate
- To recover from illness, exhaustion, or a setback.
- “She went to the coast to recuperate after surgery.”
- remuneration
- Money paid for work or a service; payment.
- “The role offers generous remuneration.”
- scrutiny
- Critical observation or examination.
- “Public figures are under constant media scrutiny.”
- sensationalism
- The presentation of stories in a way designed to provoke excitement at the expense of accuracy.
- “Tabloid sensationalism distorts serious issues.”
- ubiquitous
- Present, appearing, or found everywhere.
- “Smartphones have become ubiquitous.”
- wanderlust
- A strong desire to travel and explore the world.
- “Her wanderlust took her across five continents.”
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Frequently asked questions
How can I remember Band 9 vocabulary for IELTS?
Use spaced repetition and active recall rather than rote lists: review each word with flashcards and quizzes at growing intervals, and practise saying it aloud in your own example sentences.
How many words are in this collection?
This collection has 13 hand-picked words, each with a definition, pronunciation, example sentences, synonyms and collocations.