Five hand-picked Band 7+ words every day, with pronunciation, an IELTS-style example, synonyms, collocations and a tip on where to use each one in Writing or Speaking. Come back tomorrow for five more.
Seeming likely to be true or reasonable.
A plausible explanation is that workers moved to cities for higher wages.
IELTS tip: Good for hedged reasoning: 'It seems plausible that...' instead of 'I think'.
To pay another company, often abroad, to do work instead of doing it within your own company.
Many firms outsource customer service to reduce their labour costs.
IELTS tip: Useful when discussing globalisation and job losses in developed countries.
An excellent piece of art, music or writing, often the best work of an artist.
The novel is widely regarded as a masterpiece of modern literature.
IELTS tip: Good in Speaking Part 2 when you describe a book, painting or film you admire.
Quiet, private and far away from other people.
We found a secluded beach that could only be reached on foot.
IELTS tip: A precise alternative to 'quiet' when describing a favourite place.
To start committing crimes, often because of difficult circumstances.
Young people with no job prospects may turn to crime out of desperation.
IELTS tip: A natural phrase for 'causes of crime' essays.
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