Academic English Vocabulary
40 high-frequency academic words drawn from the Academic Word List (AWL). Essential for university essays, research papers, IELTS Academic, and TOEFL writing and reading sections.
All Cards in This Deck
Question
What does Analyze mean in academic writing?
Answer
To examine something in detail in order to understand or explain it. Analyze the causes of the French Revolution.
Question
What does Assess mean?
Answer
To evaluate or estimate the nature, quality, or value of something. Assess the impact of social media on youth.
Question
What does Concept mean?
Answer
An abstract idea or general notion. The concept of democracy has evolved over centuries.
Question
What does Constitute mean?
Answer
To be or be equivalent to something; to make up. Women constitute over half of the student population.
Question
What does Context mean?
Answer
The circumstances that form the setting for an event or idea. Read the passage in its historical context.
Question
What does Contradict mean?
Answer
To assert the opposite of; to be in conflict with. The new data contradicts the original hypothesis.
Question
What does Contrast mean?
Answer
To compare in a way that highlights differences. Contrast the two approaches to economic development.
Question
What does Derive mean?
Answer
To obtain something from a specified source. The word "philosophy" derives from Greek.
Question
What does Distinct mean?
Answer
Clearly different or separate; recognizably individual. The report identified three distinct categories.
Question
What does Emphasize mean?
Answer
To give special importance or attention to something. The professor emphasized the need for critical thinking.
Question
What does Establish mean?
Answer
To set up; to achieve acceptance or recognition. Early research established a link between diet and disease.
Question
What does Evaluate mean?
Answer
To assess the quality, importance, or condition of. Evaluate the evidence before drawing conclusions.
Question
What does Evidence mean?
Answer
Facts or information indicating whether something is true. Provide evidence to support your argument.
Question
What does Explicit mean?
Answer
Stated clearly and in detail, leaving no room for confusion. The instructions were explicit and easy to follow.
Question
What does Factor mean?
Answer
A circumstance or element that contributes to a result. Poverty is a significant factor in educational outcomes.
Question
What does Function mean?
Answer
The purpose or role of something. The function of the immune system is to fight disease.
Question
What does Hypothesis mean?
Answer
A proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence, used as a starting point for investigation. The hypothesis was tested through experiments.
Question
What does Identify mean?
Answer
To recognize or name something. Identify the main argument in the passage.
Question
What does Imply mean?
Answer
To suggest something without stating it directly. The data implies a strong correlation between the variables.
Question
What does Indicate mean?
Answer
To point out or show; to be a sign of. Rising temperatures indicate climate change.
Question
What does Interpret mean?
Answer
To explain the meaning of; to understand in a particular way. Interpret the findings in light of current theory.
Question
What does Justify mean?
Answer
To show or prove to be right or reasonable. Justify your use of a qualitative research method.
Question
What does Methodology mean?
Answer
The system of methods used in a particular field or activity. Explain the methodology used in your research.
Question
What does Objective (adj.) mean?
Answer
Not influenced by personal feelings; impartial. A good researcher must remain objective.
Question
What does Obtain mean?
Answer
To get or acquire something. Data was obtained through structured interviews.
Question
What does Perceive mean?
Answer
To become aware of through the senses; to understand. How do students perceive their learning environment?
Question
What does Phenomenon mean?
Answer
A fact or situation that is observed to exist, especially one whose cause is unknown. Climate change is a complex phenomenon.
Question
What does Principle mean?
Answer
A fundamental truth or proposition that serves as a foundation. The principle of equality underpins modern law.
Question
What does Relevant mean?
Answer
Closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand. Include only relevant evidence in your argument.
Question
What does Research mean?
Answer
The systematic investigation into and study of materials to establish facts. The research was conducted over three years.
Question
What does Significant mean?
Answer
Important enough to be worthy of attention; noteworthy. There was a significant increase in test scores.
Question
What does Summarize mean?
Answer
To give a brief statement of the main points of something. Summarize the article in one paragraph.
Question
What does Theory mean?
Answer
A system of ideas intended to explain something. Darwin's theory of evolution changed biology.
Question
What does Thus mean in formal writing?
Answer
Therefore; as a result. Used to introduce a conclusion. The data was incomplete; thus, the results were inconclusive.
Question
What does Valid mean?
Answer
Well-grounded or justifiable; legally or officially acceptable. Is the argument logically valid?
Question
What does Variable mean?
Answer
An element that can change in an experiment. Identify the independent and dependent variables.
Question
What does Whereas mean?
Answer
Used to introduce a contrast. Some prefer qualitative methods, whereas others favor quantitative approaches.
Question
What does Albeit mean?
Answer
Although; even though. The study was useful, albeit limited in scope.
Question
What does Coherent mean?
Answer
Logical and consistent; easy to understand. Your argument must be coherent and well-structured.
Question
What does Subsequent mean?
Answer
Coming after something in time or order. Subsequent studies confirmed the original findings.