Talking about people in the IELTS speaking test — Lesson 3
Why strong vocabulary about people improves your IELTS score
In the IELTS speaking test, describing people clearly and naturally depends on using precise, varied vocabulary. Repeating the same word sounds basic; using a range of synonyms shows lexical resource and helps you produce longer, more interesting answers. Use synonyms to avoid repetition and to add detail — not just swap single words but extend your idea with reasons, examples or feelings.
| Possible synonyms | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| dedicated | idealistic | funny | enthusiastic | inventive | faithful |
| relaxed | logical | intrepid | positive | clever | |
Match up a word from the dropdown list to the word in bold. The table above shows all possible synonyms at all times so you can choose confidently.
1. amusing is a synonym for: .
2. diligent is a synonym for: .
3. easy-going is a synonym for: .
4. fearless is a synonym for: .
5. generous is a synonym for: .
6. intelligent is a synonym for: .
7. loyal is a synonym for: .
8. optimistic is a synonym for: .
9. passionate is a synonym for: .
10. creative is a synonym for: .
11. rational is a synonym for: .
12. utopian is a synonym for: .
How to use synonyms to give more in your IELTS answers
Short tip: after naming a quality, give a brief explanation, an example and a feeling. This adds length and clarity.
Example 1 (amusing → funny): “He’s very amusing — I think everyone I know finds him funny because he tells small stories and jokes during conversations, so I enjoy talking to him for a long time.”
Example 2 (diligent → dedicated): “She’s very diligent; she’s dedicated to her studies and often spends extra hours practising, which really impressed me during our group project.”
Example 3 (creative → inventive): “My cousin is creative — he comes up with inventive solutions when we need to decorate for events, so people always compliment his ideas.”
Use these quick patterns in the test: – Statement: “He is X.” – Reason: “This is because…” – Example: “For example…” This shows fluency, coherence and lexical range without repeating the same word.
BOOST YOUR VOCABULARY! Here’s a glossary of key words from this post:
| Word (Part of Speech) | Definition | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Intrepid (adjective) | brave; not afraid to try dangerous or difficult things | In my IELTS talk I described an intrepid traveller who climbed mountains alone. |
| Utopian (adjective) | describing a perfect idea that may be unrealistic | I mentioned a utopian plan for my hometown, but admitted it would be hard to achieve. |
| Diligent (adjective) | working carefully and with steady effort | I talked about a diligent student who studies every night for exams. |
| Inventive (adjective) | good at thinking of new and useful ideas | In part 2 I described an inventive friend who made a useful app. |
| Enthusiastic (adjective) | showing strong interest or excitement | I said my teacher was enthusiastic and that inspired me to learn more. |
| Rational (adjective) | based on clear thinking and facts, not feelings | I described a rational manager who makes sensible decisions at work. |
| Optimistic (adjective) | expecting good results; hopeful | I mentioned being optimistic about improving my English with practice. |
| Passionate (adjective) | having strong feelings or interest about something | In my answer I described a passionate volunteer who helped refugees. |
| Generous (adjective) | willing to give time, help or money to others | I talked about a generous neighbour who helps elderly people in the street. |
| Loyal (adjective) | always supporting or being faithful to someone | I described a loyal friend who stood by me during a difficult time. |