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Want to increase the chance of getting your desired IELTS score? If yes, then learning business-related vocabulary can be beneficial for you as it can help you form your answers well! This specialised set of words and phrases not only enhances your overall English proficiency but also provides a competitive edge in the IELTS test.

Whether you're aiming for a higher band score or preparing for a career in the global business environment, focusing on business vocabulary will significantly improve your language skills and confidence.

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Importance of using rich vocabulary related to business in your IELTS test

Using rich vocabulary related to business in your IELTS test can significantly enhance your performance, especially if you plan to study or work in a business-related field. Here's why it's important:

1. Demonstrates proficiency

Using business-specific vocabulary shows examiners that you have a high level of English proficiency and can communicate effectively in a professional context. This can help you score higher in both the Speaking and Writing sections.

2. Reflects real-world application

IELTS is designed to assess your readiness for real-life situations. Being able to use business terminology accurately reflects your ability to handle real-world business communications, whether in meetings, reports, or presentations.

3. Increases clarity and precision

Rich vocabulary allows you to express your ideas more clearly and precisely. Instead of using general terms, you can use specific business jargon that conveys your message more effectively, making your responses more compelling and professional.

4. Enhances task achievement

In the Writing section, particularly Task 2, topics often relate to work, technology, or global issues, where business vocabulary can be very relevant. Using appropriate terms can help you address the task more comprehensively and meet the criteria for task achievement.

5. Shows preparation and knowledge

Using business vocabulary indicates that you are well-prepared and knowledgeable about your field of interest. This can impress examiners and contribute to a positive impression of your overall language ability.

List of IELTS vocabulary related to business

Here is the list of IELTS vocabulary words with meaning and examples related to the business that you can consider using in your IELTS test to score higher:

Vocabulary Word

Meaning

Example

Merger

Combination of two companies to form one

The merger between the two tech giants created a powerful new entity in the industry.

Profit Margin

Difference between revenue and cost

A higher profit margin indicates a more profitable company.

Stakeholder

A person with an interest in a company's success

Stakeholders were concerned about the recent decline in stock prices.

Revenue

Income generated from sales

The company reported an increase in revenue for the third quarter.

Bankruptcy

Legal status when a person or entity can't repay debts

The retailer declared bankruptcy after years of declining sales.

Asset

Resources owned by a company

The company's assets include properties, equipment, and cash.

Liability

Debts or obligations of a company

Reducing liabilities can improve the company's financial health.

Equity

Ownership interest in a company

The investors received equity in the startup in exchange for funding.

Dividend

Share of profits distributed to shareholders

The company announced a higher dividend payout this year.

Market Share

Percentage of an industry's sales a company controls

The brand has a 25% market share in the smartphone industry.

Inflation

General increase in prices over time

Rising inflation affects the purchasing power of consumers.

Recession

Period of economic decline

The recession led to widespread job losses and reduced consumer spending.

Supply Chain

Network involved in producing and delivering products

Disruptions in the supply chain can affect product availability.

Entrepreneurship

Process of starting and running a new business

Entrepreneurship requires innovation, risk-taking, and determination.

Investment

Allocating resources with the expectation of profit

Investing in stocks can be a good way to grow your wealth over time.

Outsourcing

Hiring external firms to perform business functions

The company outsourced its customer service operations to a firm in India.

Monopoly

Market condition where one seller dominates

The government regulates monopolies to prevent abuse of market power.

Fiscal Policy

Government policies on taxation and spending

Fiscal policy can influence economic growth and stability.

Market Research

Gathering information about consumers' needs

Market research is essential for developing effective marketing strategies.

Branding

Creating a unique image and identity for a product

Successful branding can differentiate a product in a competitive market.

CEO (Chief Executive Officer)

Highest-ranking executive in a company

The CEO is responsible for making major corporate decisions.

Business Model

Plan for how a company will generate revenue

The startup's innovative business model attracted many investors.

Cash Flow

Movement of money in and out of a business

Positive cash flow is crucial for a company's survival and growth.

E-commerce

Buying and selling goods online

E-commerce has grown rapidly, especially during the pandemic.

Market Segmentation

Dividing a market into distinct groups of buyers

Market segmentation helps companies target their marketing efforts more effectively.

Competitive Advantage

A unique benefit that sets a company apart

Innovation is often a key source of competitive advantage.

SWOT Analysis

Framework for identifying strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats

Conducting a SWOT analysis can help in strategic planning.

Balance Sheet

Financial statement showing a company's assets, liabilities, and equity

The balance sheet provides a snapshot of the company's financial health.

Customer Retention

Ability to keep existing customers

High customer retention rates are indicative of customer satisfaction.

Supply and Demand

Economic model of price determination

Prices are influenced by the balance of supply and demand in the market.

Business-related questions asked in the IELTS Speaking test

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

  1. What is your occupation?

  2. Do you enjoy your job? Why or why not?

  3. What are your main responsibilities at work?

  4. Do you think your job is important? Why?

  5. Have you ever thought of starting your own business? Why or why not?

Part 2: Long turn (Cue Card)

Describe a business you would like to start. You should say:

  • What the business would do

  • Where it would be located

  • Who your customers would be

  • And explain why you would like to start this business

Part 3: Discussion

  1. What are the advantages and disadvantages of running your own business?

  2. How has technology impacted businesses in recent years?

  3. Do you think businesses should be responsible for the social and environmental impacts of their activities? Why or why not?

  4. How do large corporations affect local businesses?

  5. What skills are important for someone who wants to work in business?

Hope these vocabulary words improve your language skills and help you effectively discuss business-related questions asked in your IELTS exam. We recommend you include these words in your learning to score a high band in the IELTS test.

If you want to know more about the IELTS test, you can get in touch with your nearest IDP IELTS test centre. Our team of IELTS experts will guide you with all your doubts.

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