IELTS vocabulary for technology
138 words and phrases taken from Band 8 answers to real technology questions in our test bank, each with its meaning and the sentence it was used in. The first list is formal vocabulary for Writing Task 2; the second is everyday vocabulary for Speaking.
Writing Task 2 vocabulary
- executive function : Mental processes that enable us to plan and focus.
This process sharpens strategic thinking and enhances executive function.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- spatial awareness : The ability to understand objects in physical space.
For instance, children who regularly engage with strategy-based games often demonstrate superior spatial awareness and improved logical reasoning compared to those who do not, as these games necessitate constant mental calculation and rapid decision-making.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- intricate : Very complicated or detailed in design or structure.
Many modern titles require players to navigate complex environments, manage resources, and solve intricate puzzles under pressure.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- collaborative : Involving two or more people working together effectively.
These interactions allow children to build collaborative skills in a digital landscape.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- interpersonal competencies : Skills used to communicate and interact with others.
A clear example is seen in cooperative online games where players must communicate via voice chat to complete missions; this experience helps youngsters learn to negotiate roles and support peers, which are essential interpersonal competencies that translate well into real-world scenarios.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- equilibrium : A state of balance between opposing physical forces.
As long as parents ensure a healthy equilibrium between virtual play and physical activities, the advantages of gaming can be fully realised.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- inherently : In a way that is a permanent characteristic.
In summary, although excessive screen time can be problematic, video games are not inherently harmful and can indeed contribute positively to a child's growth.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- realised : Achieved or brought into actual existence or use.
As long as parents ensure a healthy equilibrium between virtual play and physical activities, the advantages of gaming can be fully realised.
Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree- render : To cause someone or something to become something
For instance, the transition to automated warehouse systems has significantly reduced the demand for manual labour in logistics, leading to concerns that machines will render large segments of the workforce redundant and exacerbate economic inequality.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- contentious : Causing or likely to cause an intense argument
The rapid integration of artificial intelligence into the workplace has sparked a contentious debate regarding its long-term impact on employment.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- redundant : No longer needed or useful in a job
For instance, the transition to automated warehouse systems has significantly reduced the demand for manual labour in logistics, leading to concerns that machines will render large segments of the workforce redundant and exacerbate economic inequality.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- catalyst : Something that causes an important event to happen
Conversely, many experts contend that artificial intelligence will act as a catalyst for industrial innovation rather than a terminal threat to employment.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- burgeoning : Beginning to grow or increase rapidly in size
A pertinent example is the burgeoning field of AI ethics and system maintenance, which has emerged entirely due to the development of these technologies, providing high-skilled employment for thousands of professionals who oversee the responsible deployment of such tools.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- inconceivable : Impossible to imagine or believe to be true
New technologies historically drive the creation of roles that were previously inconceivable, requiring unique human attributes like strategic decision-making and emotional intelligence.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- proactive : Creating or controlling a situation by causing change
I believe that through proactive reskilling initiatives, the integration of artificial intelligence will foster a more dynamic and productive global economy.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- reskilling : Teaching employees new skills for a different job
I believe that through proactive reskilling initiatives, the integration of artificial intelligence will foster a more dynamic and productive global economy.
Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views- extraterrestrial : originating or existing outside the planet Earth
Those who support reaching out to extraterrestrial civilisations often emphasise the immense intellectual rewards such interaction could offer.
Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views- prudent : acting with or showing care for the future
This essay will examine both perspectives and argue that remaining silent is the more prudent course of action.
Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views- unprecedented : never having happened or existed in the past
- leapfrog : to improve or advance by passing over others
For instance, the SETI Institute has historically used radio telescopes to listen for signals, and proponents suggest that sending messages could accelerate a collaborative exchange of knowledge that would leapfrog centuries of human progress.
Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views- neutralised : rendered ineffective or harmless by some force
If an alien civilisation possesses significantly superior technology, they may view Earth as a resource to be exploited or a threat to be neutralised.
Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views- disparate : essentially different in kind and not comparable
A historical parallel can be seen in human exploration on Earth, where encounters between civilisations with disparate technological levels have frequently resulted in the subjugation or destruction of the less advanced group.
Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views- subjugation : the action of bringing someone under total control
A historical parallel can be seen in human exploration on Earth, where encounters between civilisations with disparate technological levels have frequently resulted in the subjugation or destruction of the less advanced group.
Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views- existential : relating to existence or the survival of life
In summary, while the allure of contacting extraterrestrial life is compelling from a scientific standpoint, the existential risks are too significant to ignore.
Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views- infringement : the action of breaking the terms of rights
While proponents argue this practice is necessary for the evolution of digital services, opponents contend that it represents an unacceptable infringement on individual privacy.
Data access by technology companies: discuss both views- contingent upon : subject to chance or dependent on something else
From this perspective, the seamless integration of technology into daily life is contingent upon the availability of user data to fuel machine learning algorithms.
Data access by technology companies: discuss both views- systematic erosion : the gradual and planned destruction of something
Conversely, many argue that this practice facilitates the systematic erosion of privacy.
Data access by technology companies: discuss both views- pertinent : relevant or applicable to a particular matter
A pertinent example of this is the Cambridge Analytica scandal, where personal data was harvested without explicit consent to influence political sentiment.
Data access by technology companies: discuss both views- compromised : weakened or put in a dangerous situation
Such incidents demonstrate that when corporations prioritise profit over data protection, the trust between the service provider and the consumer is fundamentally compromised, leading to profound societal concerns.
Data access by technology companies: discuss both views- paramount : more important than anything else in importance
In summary, while the optimisation of services through data collection is a clear advantage of modern technology, the preservation of privacy remains a paramount concern.
Data access by technology companies: discuss both views- civil liberties : the rights of citizens to political freedom
I believe that strict regulations are required to ensure that technological progress does not come at the cost of civil liberties.
Data access by technology companies: discuss both views- obsolete : no longer produced or used as being outdated
Some argue that e-books will inevitably render paper books obsolete, whereas others maintain that physical volumes possess enduring value.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- unparalleled : having no equal in quality or extent
E-books have revolutionised reading habits by offering unparalleled portability and instant access to vast digital libraries.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- logistical : relating to the complex organisation of large operations
For instance, the widespread adoption of platforms like Kindle has enabled millions of readers in remote areas to access educational resources that were previously unavailable due to logistical constraints.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- tactile : connected with the sense of touch
Conversely, paper books endure because of the unique tactile experience and emotional connection they provide to readers.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- artefacts : objects made by human beings of historical interest
Beyond personal enjoyment, physical books serve as tangible historical artefacts that do not rely on electricity or proprietary software to function.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- proprietary : relating to an owner or ownership of something
Beyond personal enjoyment, physical books serve as tangible historical artefacts that do not rely on electricity or proprietary software to function.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- intimacy : a close, familiar, and usually affectionate connection
I believe that the tactile intimacy and permanence of printed works ensure they will maintain a significant place in society for generations to come.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- coexist : to exist at the same time or place
The two mediums serve different purposes and will likely coexist, catering to different preferences and contexts.
E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views- mitigate : to make something less severe or harmful
For instance, the development of Golden Rice, which is fortified with vitamin A, demonstrates how bioengineering can mitigate malnutrition in developing nations where rice is a staple food source.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- staple food : a basic food eaten regularly by many people
For instance, the development of Golden Rice, which is fortified with vitamin A, demonstrates how bioengineering can mitigate malnutrition in developing nations where rice is a staple food source.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- longitudinal : involving study over a very long period
Furthermore, critics argue that the lack of extensive longitudinal studies leaves the potential allergenicity or toxicological effects of consuming these foods uncertain.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- allergenicity : the capacity to cause an allergic reaction
Furthermore, critics argue that the lack of extensive longitudinal studies leaves the potential allergenicity or toxicological effects of consuming these foods uncertain.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- resilience : the ability to recover quickly from difficulties
The primary advantage of genetically modified crops lies in their enhanced resilience and increased nutritional content.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- bioengineering : using biological science to create new products
For instance, the development of Golden Rice, which is fortified with vitamin A, demonstrates how bioengineering can mitigate malnutrition in developing nations where rice is a staple food source.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- cross-pollination : transfer of pollen between different plant types
There is apprehension that cross-pollination between modified plants and wild relatives might lead to the emergence of herbicide-resistant weeds, effectively disrupting local ecosystems.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- oversight : the process of watching or supervising something
A cautious approach, governed by rigorous scientific oversight and transparent regulation, is essential to ensure that the benefits of this technology do not come at the cost of ecological stability or public health.
Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology- pervasive : spreading widely throughout an area or a group
- streamlined : made more efficient and effective by removing waste
In summary, while technological tools have undoubtedly streamlined logistical processes, they have simultaneously introduced profound challenges regarding focus and personal wellbeing.
Has technology simplified or complicated human existence: discuss both views- intricacy : the quality of being complex or detailed
While some argue that these developments have provided unparalleled convenience, others contend that they have introduced a new layer of intricacy to human life.
Has technology simplified or complicated human existence: discuss both views- repository : a place where things are stored or kept
Furthermore, the internet serves as a vast repository of knowledge, making information retrieval near-instantaneous.
Has technology simplified or complicated human existence: discuss both views- perpetual : never ending or changing; occurring repeatedly or constantly
Conversely, many suggest that the same tools have created a sense of perpetual obligation.
Has technology simplified or complicated human existence: discuss both views- cognitive overload : a state where the brain receives too much information
Additionally, the sheer volume of data generated daily can lead to cognitive overload, making it difficult to discern relevant information from digital noise.
Has technology simplified or complicated human existence: discuss both views- curate : to select, organise, and present information or content
A clear example of this is the rise of social media, where the pressure to curate a digital persona and the endless stream of notifications often detract from genuine human connection and mental clarity.
Has technology simplified or complicated human existence: discuss both views- hereditary : passed from parents to offspring through genes
The primary benefit of genetic engineering lies in its capacity to eradicate hereditary diseases and improve human longevity.
Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?- manifest : to become clear or appear as a symptom
By precisely editing the genome, scientists can potentially eliminate debilitating conditions such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease before they manifest.
Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?- molecular : relating to the smallest unit of chemical substances
This capability to refine human health at a molecular level signifies a monumental shift in our ability to combat suffering.
Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?- irreversible : impossible to change back to a previous state
Conversely, the danger stems from the potential for irreversible ecological disruption and the emergence of uncontrollable bio-engineered pathogens.
Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?- pathogens : microorganisms that can cause various human diseases
Conversely, the danger stems from the potential for irreversible ecological disruption and the emergence of uncontrollable bio-engineered pathogens.
Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?- debilitating : causing someone to become very weak or infirm
By precisely editing the genome, scientists can potentially eliminate debilitating conditions such as cystic fibrosis or Huntington’s disease before they manifest.
Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?- unpredictable : impossible to know what will happen in future
While the medical advantages are undeniable, the unpredictable nature of manipulating life at its core makes it a substantial threat if oversight is insufficient.
Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?- proliferation : a rapid increase in the number of something
The rapid proliferation of digital communication tools has fundamentally altered how individuals interact with one another.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- detrimental : tending to cause harm or negative consequences
While some argue that these advancements foster global connectivity, I firmly believe that modern communication technology has detrimental impacts on the depth and quality of human social interactions.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- superficial : lacking depth or genuine emotional significance
Digital communication often replaces genuine emotional connection with superficial interactions.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- curated : carefully selected and presented to create impression
This shift can lead to a sense of emotional detachment, as users become accustomed to curated digital personas instead of authentic engagement.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- phubbing : ignoring someone present to focus on a phone
This phenomenon, often referred to as 'phubbing', signals to others that the digital content is more important than the person sitting in front of them.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- eroding : gradually wearing away or destroying something valuable
A clear example is observed in restaurants or cafes, where groups of friends frequently spend more time scrolling through their mobile phones than participating in conversation, thereby eroding the sense of community and shared presence that strengthens relationships.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- mediums : the means or channels through which information travels
In summary, the reliance on technological mediums for communication significantly weakens the fabric of human connections.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- authenticity : the quality of being genuine and real
This shift can lead to a sense of emotional detachment, as users become accustomed to curated digital personas instead of authentic engagement.
Modern communication technology and social relationships: agree or disagree- estrangement : the state of being alienated or separated from someone
For example, professional networking sites and messaging applications allow expatriates to remain integrated within their home communities, ensuring that distance does not necessarily lead to estrangement.
Social media and communication quality: discuss both views- substantive : having a firm basis in reality and importance
For instance, the prevalence of 'likes' and short comments often replaces substantive dialogue, leading to a superficial form of engagement where individuals feel informed about others' lives without truly understanding their internal states.
Social media and communication quality: discuss both views- performative : done for the sake of appearances rather than sincerity
Ultimately, unless digital communication is supplemented by meaningful physical presence, it risks reducing human interaction to a series of hollow, performative exchanges.
Social media and communication quality: discuss both views- expatriates : people living outside their native country for work
For example, professional networking sites and messaging applications allow expatriates to remain integrated within their home communities, ensuring that distance does not necessarily lead to estrangement.
Social media and communication quality: discuss both views- inadequate : lacking the quality or quantity required for tasks
In my opinion, while social media is an efficient tool for logistical communication and keeping in touch, it is an inadequate substitute for deep, personal connection.
Social media and communication quality: discuss both views- supplemented : added to something to complete or enhance it
Ultimately, unless digital communication is supplemented by meaningful physical presence, it risks reducing human interaction to a series of hollow, performative exchanges.
Social media and communication quality: discuss both views- inherent : existing in something as a permanent essential attribute
Conversely, critics argue that digital interactions lack the emotional depth inherent in face-to-face communication.
Social media and communication quality: discuss both views- terrestrial : relating to the Earth rather than outer space
The debate regarding whether governments should prioritise space exploration or allocate those funds to terrestrial concerns remains a contentious issue.
Space exploration versus Earthly investment: discuss both views- unjustifiable : not able to be shown to be right
While some assert that the costs are unjustifiable given the hardships faced by many on Earth, others argue that venturing into the cosmos is necessary for the advancement of our species.
Space exploration versus Earthly investment: discuss both views- catalysts : substances or events that cause rapid change
Conversely, supporters of space exploration contend that these projects are catalysts for critical technological progress.
Space exploration versus Earthly investment: discuss both views- meteorological : relating to the study of weather and atmosphere
Research conducted for space missions often leads to breakthroughs that benefit life on Earth, such as advanced satellite communications, meteorological monitoring, and medical imaging technologies.
Space exploration versus Earthly investment: discuss both views- depletion : reduction in the number or quantity of something
Furthermore, as the planet faces the threat of resource depletion, the potential to mine asteroids or establish colonies on other planets offers a long-term insurance policy for humanity.
Space exploration versus Earthly investment: discuss both views- endeavour : an attempt to achieve a goal or objective
In my opinion, while the immediate needs of our population must not be ignored, the pursuit of space exploration is an essential endeavour.
Space exploration versus Earthly investment: discuss both views- evolution : the gradual development of something into something better
Progress in this field is not a luxury but a fundamental component of human evolution and survival.
Space exploration versus Earthly investment: discuss both views- misallocation : the act of distributing resources in an incorrect way
The debate regarding whether space exploration represents a misallocation of global resources or a fundamental necessity for human progress remains contentious.
Space exploration: a waste of resources or essential?- finite : having limits or bounds in size or extent
Furthermore, as planetary resources become increasingly finite, the ability to harvest minerals from asteroids or establish colonies elsewhere serves as an essential contingency for the long-term survival of the human species.
Space exploration: a waste of resources or essential?- contingency : a future event that is possible but uncertain
Furthermore, as planetary resources become increasingly finite, the ability to harvest minerals from asteroids or establish colonies elsewhere serves as an essential contingency for the long-term survival of the human species.
Space exploration: a waste of resources or essential?- indispensable : absolutely necessary and impossible to do without
The development of satellite technology, which is now indispensable for monitoring climate change and global weather patterns, serves as a testament to the practical value gained from these missions.
Space exploration: a waste of resources or essential?- ingenuity : the quality of being clever, original, and inventive
By fostering technological ingenuity and safeguarding our future through scientific discovery, space travel remains an essential endeavour.
Space exploration: a waste of resources or essential?- exacerbate : make a problem or bad situation much worse
By concentrating financial gains among a small elite and restricting access to vital tools for the underprivileged, technology has exacerbated existing inequalities.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- chasm : a profound difference or division between two things
I believe that technological progress is a primary driver behind the widening chasm between the wealthy and the impoverished, as it disproportionately rewards those with existing capital and advanced expertise.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- disproportionately : to an extent that is too large or small
I believe that technological progress is a primary driver behind the widening chasm between the wealthy and the impoverished, as it disproportionately rewards those with existing capital and advanced expertise.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- entrenching : establishing something so firmly that it cannot change
For instance, the rise of e-commerce giants has decimated traditional retail jobs while funnelling immense wealth into the hands of a few tech-savvy entrepreneurs, further entrenching the financial divide.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- marginalised : treated as insignificant or peripheral to society
Access to high-speed internet, expensive hardware, and specialised digital training is often restricted to those who can afford it, leaving marginalised groups behind.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- stratification : the arrangement of something into different social layers
In essence, while innovation drives human development, it currently functions as a mechanism that amplifies economic stratification.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- equitably : in a fair and impartial manner for all
Addressing this imbalance requires systemic intervention to ensure the benefits of progress are distributed more equitably across all strata of society.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- affluent : having a great deal of money or wealth
For example, students in affluent districts frequently benefit from advanced educational technology that prepares them for high-paying roles, whereas their counterparts in poorer areas suffer from a lack of resources, effectively limiting their future earning potential and perpetuating cycles of poverty.
Technological progress and the wealth gap: to what extent- seamless : smooth and continuous without any apparent obstacles
While traditional methods like letters and landline telephony once limited the reach and frequency of exchanges, contemporary platforms have made connectivity seamless.
The evolution of communication through technology: impacts and evaluation- ubiquity : the state of being found everywhere at once
However, the ubiquity of digital discourse has introduced concerns regarding the quality of human engagement.
The evolution of communication through technology: impacts and evaluation- discourse : written or spoken communication or formal debate
However, the ubiquity of digital discourse has introduced concerns regarding the quality of human engagement.
The evolution of communication through technology: impacts and evaluation- nuance : a subtle difference in meaning or expression
- superficiality : lack of depth or genuine emotional significance
A clear example of this is the increasing trend of individuals preferring digital chats over physical meetings, which can lead to a sense of superficiality in friendships and a decline in social skills.
The evolution of communication through technology: impacts and evaluation- robust : strong and healthy or unlikely to fail
This constant accessibility ensures that social and professional networks remain robust and dynamic.
The evolution of communication through technology: impacts and evaluation- democratisation : making something accessible and available to everyone
The primary benefit of an online-only model is the democratisation of knowledge.
The future of public libraries: discussing online-only access- marginalising : treating a group as insignificant or peripheral
Conversely, the total migration to digital platforms risks marginalising those without the resources to participate.
The future of public libraries: discussing online-only access- digital divide : the gap between those with and without internet
If these physical locations are abolished, a significant portion of the population will face increased social isolation and a widening digital divide, as they may lack the necessary hardware or high-speed connectivity to access these online-only resources.
The future of public libraries: discussing online-only access- social fabric : the complex structure of relationships within a society
In summary, while the transition to virtual libraries offers remarkable gains in efficiency and reach, it risks undermining the social fabric that physical libraries maintain.
The future of public libraries: discussing online-only access- hybrid approach : a method combining two different types of systems
Therefore, maintaining a hybrid approach is essential to ensure that the progress of technology does not come at the expense of social equity.
The future of public libraries: discussing online-only access- infrastructure : the basic physical and organisational structures and facilities
This essay will examine the advantages of virtual access alongside the disadvantages of removing physical infrastructure.
The future of public libraries: discussing online-only access
Speaking vocabulary
- Streamline : To make a system or process more efficient.
I am quite fond of gadgets because they streamline my daily routine significantly.
Part 1: Apps- Formative years : The early years of life when character develops.
While some digital engagement is fine, they should be encouraged to prioritise outdoor activities or face-to-face interactions to ensure they maintain a healthy balance in their formative years.
Part 1: Apps- Real-time : Happening immediately as something else is occurring.
Many schools have transitioned to paperless classrooms, meaning students spend their entire morning interacting with educational software to complete assignments and collaborate on group projects in real-time.
Part 1: Apps- Paperless : Operating entirely through digital rather than physical documents.
Many schools have transitioned to paperless classrooms, meaning students spend their entire morning interacting with educational software to complete assignments and collaborate on group projects in real-time.
Part 1: Apps- Productivity tools : Software designed to help people manage their tasks.
I rely heavily on productivity tools like Notion to organise my schedule and keep track of my freelance projects.
Part 1: Apps- glued to my screen : spending a large amount of time looking at computers
It is pretty much constant because I am glued to my screen from morning until evening.
Part 1: Computers- integrated : combined together to form a functioning, whole system
From simple things like online shopping and browsing social media to more complex activities such as coding, video editing, or even managing personal finances, computers have integrated themselves into almost every facet of our daily routines.
Part 1: Computers- proficient : highly skilled or competent at doing a specific activity
I would consider myself quite proficient, especially with creative software suites.
Part 1: Computers- software suites : a collection of computer programs that work well together
I would consider myself quite proficient, especially with creative software suites.
Part 1: Computers- troubleshooting : solving serious problems for a product or computer system
I have spent years mastering tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, but I am also comfortable with basic troubleshooting and managing cloud-based storage systems to keep my digital files organised and secure.
Part 1: Computers- mundane : very ordinary and therefore not interesting or exciting
As artificial intelligence advances, robots will likely take over mundane chores, providing us with more leisure time and potentially transforming fields like healthcare through precise robotic surgery and automated elderly assistance.
Part 1: Robots- streamlining : making a process simpler and more effective for use
Beyond simple cleaning, I look forward to using smart kitchen assistants that could precisely measure ingredients or manage cooking times, effectively streamlining my meal preparation process after a long workday.
Part 1: Robots- autonomous : able to operate or control itself without outside help
Autonomous vehicles have the potential to eliminate human error, such as fatigue or distraction, making motorway travel significantly safer and far less stressful for passengers on extended trips.
Part 1: Robots- delegate : to give a particular job to someone else instead
Actually, I would welcome the idea if it meant I could delegate tedious domestic responsibilities to a machine.
Part 1: Robots- clock in : To reach a specific amount of time spent doing something
Honestly, I probably clock in about two hours a day, though it fluctuates depending on my workload.
Part 1: Social media- fluctuates : To change or vary frequently in size or amount
Honestly, I probably clock in about two hours a day, though it fluctuates depending on my workload.
Part 1: Social media- minimalist : Characterised by extreme simplicity and using very few details
My profiles are relatively minimalist, containing just my job title, educational background, and a few personal interests.
Part 1: Social media- guarded : Cautious and careful about sharing personal information with others
I prefer to keep my private life fairly guarded, so I avoid posting my residential address or any sensitive financial details online.
Part 1: Social media- prevalence : The fact of something being very common or widespread
What really bothers me is the prevalence of curated perfection, which often makes people feel inadequate about their own lives.
Part 1: Social media- vital : absolutely necessary or extremely important for something to succeed
It is absolutely vital for my daily routine, primarily because I rely on digital tools for both my professional tasks and staying connected with family.
Part 1: Technology- heavy-duty : designed to withstand hard use or perform intense work
While I need a computer for heavy-duty writing or complex projects, my phone is my go-to device for quick communication, browsing the internet, and managing my banking while I am on the move.
Part 1: Technology- game-changer : an event or item that significantly alters a situation
They have been a total game-changer for my productivity, as they help me block out ambient background noise whenever I need to concentrate in busy coffee shops or while commuting on the train.
Part 1: Technology- cumbersome : large, heavy, and difficult to carry or use comfortably
I find them quite cumbersome to wear, and they often give me a headache after only a few minutes, so I prefer sticking to traditional screens for my entertainment and gaming.
Part 1: Technology- ubiquitous : present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time
The most significant shift is the transition towards ubiquitous connectivity and artificial intelligence.
Part 1: Technology- sparingly : Doing something only in small amounts or infrequently.
I actually make calls quite sparingly these days because instant messaging is so convenient.
Part 1: Telephoning- intrusive : Causing disruption or annoyance by being unwelcomed or uninvited.
Sending a quick message is far less intrusive and allows me to convey information without interrupting the other person's schedule.
Part 1: Telephoning- hash out : To discuss something in detail to reach an agreement.
It is much more efficient to hash out the logistics verbally rather than waiting for a long thread of messages to ping back and forth.
Part 1: Telephoning- logistics : The detailed coordination of a complex operation or task.
It is much more efficient to hash out the logistics verbally rather than waiting for a long thread of messages to ping back and forth.
Part 1: Telephoning- binge-watching : Watching multiple episodes of a television program in succession.
We usually spend at least an hour on the line during our weekend calls, discussing everything from our professional challenges to the latest series we have both been binge-watching recently.
Part 1: Telephoning- go-to : The most reliable or favoured person or thing available.
It is my go-to method for casual check-ins or whenever I need to share specific details like an address that is easier to read.
Part 1: Telephoning
Use them in an answer and get scored
Write a Task 2 essay or record a Speaking answer on a technology question and get a band for lexical resource, with the words used wrongly marked.
Practise IELTS writing and speakingFrequently asked questions
How do I use technology vocabulary in IELTS Writing?
Use a few precise phrases that fit your argument, not a list of rare words. Examiners reward accurate collocations such as those above; a misused advanced word lowers the lexical resource score.
Should I memorise these words?
Learn them in the sentence they come from, then write one sentence of your own with each. Words learned in context are the ones you can use under time pressure.
Which technology questions come up in IELTS?
Our bank has 15 Task 2 questions and 6 Speaking Part 1 topics on this theme; each word above links to the answer it comes from.
Technology questions with answers
- Are video games beneficial for children: agree or disagree
- Artificial Intelligence and Job Displacement: Discuss Both Views
- Communicating with extraterrestrial life: discuss both views
- Data access by technology companies: discuss both views
- E-books versus traditional paper books: discuss both views
- Genetically modified crops: advantages and disadvantages of food technology
- Has technology simplified or complicated human existence: discuss both views
- Is genetic engineering a threat to human existence?
- Speaking Part 1: Apps
- Speaking Part 1: Computers
- Speaking Part 1: Robots
- Speaking Part 1: Social media
- Speaking Part 1: Technology
- Speaking Part 1: Telephoning
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