Learning a wide range of vocabulary is an important practice for achieving a higher score in the IELTS exam, especially when it comes to government-related terms. Having this specialised vocabulary not only helps you understand and respond to questions more effectively but also demonstrates your ability to engage with complex topics.
Whether you're taking the Listening, Reading, Writing, or Speaking sections, a strong understanding of various vocabulary can significantly boost your performance and confidence. Let's help you learn some essential words and phrases that will prepare you for IELTS success.
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Importance of using rich vocabulary related to government in your IELTS test
Using rich vocabulary related to government in your IELTS test is helpful for several reasons:
Enhances communication clarity
A strong command of government-related vocabulary allows you to communicate ideas more precisely. Words such as "legislation," "bureaucracy," "governance," and "public policy" enable you to discuss complex topics succinctly and accurately.
Demonstrates language proficiency
The IELTS test evaluates your ability to use a wide range of vocabulary. Including sophisticated terms like "executive," "judiciary," "democracy," and "authoritarianism" shows examiners that you have a high level of English proficiency, which can contribute to a higher band score.
Shows critical thinking
Discussing government-related topics often requires you to analyse, compare, and contrast different political systems or policies. Using specific vocabulary such as "diplomacy," "regulation," "sovereignty," and "federalism" helps you articulate nuanced viewpoints and arguments, demonstrating your critical thinking skills.
Covers common IELTS topics
Government and politics are frequent topics in the IELTS test, especially in the Writing and Speaking sections. Familiarity with terms like "election," "referendum," "taxation," and "civil rights" prepares you to approach these subjects confidently and competently.
5. Engages the examiner
Using varied and precise vocabulary can make your writing and speaking more engaging for the examiner. Words such as "lobbying," "judicial review," "constitutional," and "bicameral" add depth and interest to your responses, helping you stand out.
List of IELTS vocabulary related to government
Here is the list of IELTS vocabulary words with meaning and examples related to the government that you can consider using in your IELTS test to score higher:
Vocabulary Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
Legislation | Laws, considered collectively | The new legislation was passed to improve road safety. |
Parliament | The highest legislative authority in a country | The bill was debated in parliament for several hours. |
Constitution | A body of fundamental principles or established precedents according to which a state is governed | The constitution guarantees freedom of speech. |
Democracy | A system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives | Many countries strive to maintain a stable democracy. |
Bureaucracy | A system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials | The bureaucracy can sometimes be slow and inefficient. |
Sovereignty | Supreme power or authority | The country gained its sovereignty after years of struggle. |
Federal | Relating to a system of government where several states form a unity but remain independent | The federal government is responsible for national defence. |
Republic | A state in which supreme power is held by the people and their elected representatives | France is a republic with a president as head of state. |
Monarchy | A form of government with a monarch at the head | The monarchy in the UK is constitutional, with limited powers. |
Executive | The branch of government responsible for implementing laws | The executive branch includes the president and the cabinet. |
Legislature | The legislative body of a country or state | The legislature met to discuss the new environmental policies. |
Judiciary | The judicial authorities of a country | The judiciary is independent from the other branches of government. |
Constituency | A body of voters in a specified area who elect a representative to a legislative body | Each constituency has its own representative in parliament. |
Amendment | A minor change or addition designed to improve a text, piece of legislation, etc. | The constitution was amended to include new civil rights. |
Referendum | A general vote by the electorate on a single political question | The government held a referendum on the proposed changes to the voting system. |
Cabinet | A body of advisers to the president, composed of the heads of the executive departments | The cabinet meets weekly to discuss major policy issues. |
Policy | A course or principle of action adopted or proposed by a government | The government's policy on education reform was widely debated. |
Diplomat | An official representing a country abroad | The diplomat was sent to negotiate a peace treaty. |
Embassy | The official residence or offices of an ambassador | The embassy provided assistance to citizens traveling abroad. |
Autocracy | A system of government by one person with absolute power | The country was ruled by an autocracy for many years. |
Coalition | An alliance for combined action, especially a temporary alliance of political parties | The coalition government faced challenges in passing new laws. |
Impeachment | A charge of misconduct made against the holder of a public office | The impeachment process was initiated against the president. |
Incumbent | The current holder of a political office | The incumbent mayor was seeking re-election. |
Legitimacy | Conformity to the law or to rules | The legitimacy of the new government was questioned by some. |
Mandate | An official order or commission to do something | The government received a strong mandate from the voters. |
Sanction | A threatened penalty for disobeying a law or rule | Economic sanctions were imposed on the country. |
Treaty | A formally concluded and ratified agreement between countries | The treaty aimed to reduce nuclear weapons. |
Devolution | The transfer of power from a central government to regional or local governments | The devolution of powers gave more autonomy to local councils. |
Plutocracy | A society ruled by the wealthy | Critics argued that the country was becoming a plutocracy. |
Suffrage | The right to vote in political elections | Universal suffrage was achieved after years of struggle. |
Government-related questions asked in the IELTS Speaking test
Here are some example questions related to government that might be asked in the IELTS Speaking test as a topic:
Part 1: Introduction and Interview
These questions are usually personal and general in nature.
Do you think it's important for people to vote in elections? Why or why not?
Have you ever participated in any community or government activities?
How does the government influence people's daily lives in your country?
Do you follow the news about government and politics? Why or why not?
What are some ways the government can improve the lives of citizens?
Part 2: Long turn (Cue card)
You will be given a topic and need to speak about it for 1-2 minutes.
Describe a government policy that has affected your country.
What the policy is
How it has affected the country
What people think about it
And explain why you think it is an important policy
Part 3: Discussion
These questions require more in-depth answers and critical thinking.
What are the responsibilities of a government towards its citizens?
In your opinion, what are the most important qualities of a good leader?
How do you think governments can improve education systems?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of a democratic system of government?
Do you think the government should have control over the media? Why or why not?
Hope these vocabulary words improve your language skills and help you effectively discuss government-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.