A strong vocabulary is essential for success in the TOEFL exam. Every section—reading, listening, speaking, and writing—requires a solid grasp of academic words. This guide simplifies your preparation with 400 carefully selected academic words, each with definitions, example sentences, and practical study tips.
Why Read This Guide?
✅ Get a comprehensive TOEFL vocabulary list with 400 essential words
✅ Learn definitions and example sentences for better understanding
✅ Discover effective study techniques to retain new words
✅ Avoid common vocabulary mistakes that can lower your score
Table of Contents
How to Use This TOEFL Vocabulary List Effectively
A good way to use this TOEFL Vocabulary list is to break it into smaller sets and review them daily. Flashcards can be a useful tool for memorisation. Write each word, its meaning, and a sample sentence on a card. You can also quiz yourself and make sure you know how each word is used in a sentence.
We have organised this TOEFL Vocabulary list by letter, which should make it easier for you to revise. Use this list to strengthen your English skills, for all sections of the TOEFL test. Consistent review will make sure that these words become part of your working vocabulary.
How This Ultimate TOEFL Vocabulary List Was Compiled
This TOEFL vocabulary list was compiled using a range of trusted sources to ensure it’s effective for your TOEFL preparation. It draws from the Academic Word List (AWL) by Averil Coxhead, a well-known resource for academic vocabulary designed to aid learners in developing their academic language skills. Other references include data from the Cambridge English Corpus and academic sections from Oxford Learner’s Dictionaries.
To make this TOEFL Vocabulary List easier to learn, we have broken it down into smaller chunks by letter. Aim to learn one letter category daily to build up your vocabulary knowledge for the TOEFL. For example, on Monday, learn all the words for the letter A, Tuesday, the letter B and so on.
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter A (32 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Abandon | To leave or give up entirely | He had to abandon the project because of lack of funding. |
| Abstract | Existing in thought, not concrete | The concept was too abstract for the students. |
| Academy | A place of learning | She applied to the academy to study music. |
| Access | The ability to enter or use | You need a password to access the files. |
| Accommodate | To provide space for someone | The hotel can accommodate up to 100 guests. |
| Accurate | Free from errors | The data must be accurate for the report. |
| Acknowledge | To accept or admit the truth | He refused to acknowledge his mistake. |
| Acquire | To get or obtain something | She managed to acquire new skills quickly. |
| Adapt | To change to fit new conditions | Animals adapt to their environment to survive. |
| Adequate | Sufficient for a specific need | The supply of food was adequate for everyone. |
| Adjacent | Next to or adjoining something | The park is adjacent to the school. |
| Adjust | To change slightly to achieve a result | You need to adjust the settings to improve the picture quality. |
| Advocate | To support or argue for something | She advocates for equal rights. |
| Allocate | To distribute resources or duties | The manager will allocate tasks to the team. |
| Alternative | Available as another possibility | They offered an alternative solution to the problem. |
| Amend | To make changes to something | The law was amended to include new regulations. |
| Analyze | To examine in detail | Scientists analyze the data to draw conclusions. |
| Anticipate | To expect or predict something | We anticipate a large crowd at the event. |
| Apparent | Clearly visible or understood | It was apparent that she was upset. |
| Approach | To come near or deal with something | The train is approaching the station. |
| Appropriate | Suitable or proper in the circumstances | Her attire was appropriate for the occasion. |
| Approximate | Close to the actual, but not exact | The approximate cost of the project is $500. |
| Arbitrary | Based on personal whim or random choice | His decision seemed completely arbitrary. |
| Aspect | A particular part or feature of something | The financial aspect of the project needs attention. |
| Assemble | To bring together or gather | The workers assembled in the hall for the meeting. |
| Assess | To evaluate or estimate | The teacher will assess the students’ progress. |
| Assume | To suppose something without proof | I assume you have completed your homework. |
| Attain | To achieve or reach something | She worked hard to attain her goals. |
| Attribute | A quality or feature of something or someone | Honesty is an attribute that everyone values. |
| Authority | The power or right to give orders | The police have the authority to arrest people that break the law. |
| Automate | To operate by automation | They decided to automate the production process. |
| Aware | Having knowledge or perception of a situation | She was aware of the risks involved. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter B (5 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
| Benefit | An advantage or profit gained | One benefit of exercise is better health. |
| Bias | Prejudice for or against something | The article showed a clear bias towards the policy. |
| Bond | A close connection between people or groups | The bond between the siblings was unbreakable. |
| Brief | Short in duration | The teacher gave a brief explanation of the topic. |
| Bulk | The majority or largest part | The bulk of the work was completed by John. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter C (49 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Capable | Having the ability to do something | She is capable of handling this project on her own. |
| Capacity | The maximum amount something can contain | The stadium has a seating capacity of 50,000. |
| Category | A group of similar items | This product falls under the luxury goods category. |
| Cease | To bring to an end | The company decided to cease operations in Europe. |
| Channel | A means of communication | They used every channel available to spread the news. |
| Circumstance | A condition or fact affecting a situation | Under no circumstance should you reveal the secret. |
| Cite | To refer to as evidence | She cited several studies to support her argument. |
| Coherent | Logical and consistent | His argument was coherent and easy to follow. |
| Coincide | To occur at the same time | The party will coincide with her birthday. |
| Collapse | To fall down or give way | The bridge collapsed after the heavy rains. |
| Commence | To start or begin | The ceremony will commence at 10 a.m. |
| Commit | To pledge or bind to a certain course | He has committed to finishing the project by Friday. |
| Compatible | Able to exist or work together without conflict | The new software is compatible with most devices. |
| Compensate | To make up for something | She worked extra hours to compensate for her absence. |
| Compile | To gather together in one place | The editor compiled all the articles into one book. |
| Complex | Consisting of many different parts | The situation is more complex than we initially thought. |
| Compound | To make something worse by adding to it | His anger only compounded the problem. |
| Comprehensive | Thorough and complete | The report provides a comprehensive overview of the issue. |
| Comprise | To consist of; be made up of | The committee comprises ten members. |
| Conceive | To form or devise an idea | He could hardly conceive of a time without electricity. |
| Concentrate | To focus one’s attention or efforts | She needs to concentrate on her studies. |
| Conclude | To reach a decision or bring to an end | The investigation concluded with no arrests. |
| Concurrent | Happening at the same time | There were concurrent meetings in different rooms. |
| Conduct | To organize or carry out | They conducted a survey on customer satisfaction. |
| Confirm | To establish the truth or correctness | The test results confirmed the doctor’s diagnosis. |
| Conform | To comply with rules or standards | All products must conform to safety regulations. |
| Consent | To give permission for something to happen | She gave her consent to the procedure. |
| Considerable | Large in amount, size, or degree | The project required a considerable amount of funding. |
| Consistent | Acting or done in the same way over time | His performance has been consistent throughout the season. |
| Constant | Occurring continuously over a period of time | The noise from the construction was constant. |
| Constitute | To be a part of a whole | Twelve months constitute a year. |
| Consult | To seek advice or information from | You should consult a lawyer before making a decision. |
| Consume | To use up or eat | He consumed the entire meal in minutes. |
| Context | The circumstances or background of an event | The statement was taken out of context. |
| Contract | A written or spoken agreement | They signed a contract to finalize the deal. |
| Contradict | To be in conflict with | His actions contradict his words. |
| Contribute | To give something in order to help achieve a goal | She contributed to the charity fund. |
| Controversy | Disagreement, typically when prolonged or public | The new policy caused a lot of controversy. |
| Converse | To engage in conversation | They conversed for hours about their travels. |
| Convert | To change in form or function | The sofa converts into a bed. |
| Convince | To persuade someone to do or believe something | He convinced her to take the job offer. |
| Cooperate | To work together towards a common goal | The two teams agreed to cooperate on the project. |
| Coordinate | To bring various elements into a harmonious relationship | She coordinated the entire event successfully. |
| Core | The central or most important part | The core of the issue is lack of communication. |
| Correspond | To have a close similarity or match | The results correspond with our expectations. |
| Criteria | Standards by which something is judged | The main criteria for selection is experience. |
| Crucial | Extremely important or necessary | It is crucial that we meet this deadline. |
| Currency | The system of money used in a country | The local currency is the yen. |
| Cycle | A series of events that repeat themselves | The cycle of seasons is predictable. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter D (27 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Data | Statistics and facts collected together for reference or analysis. | The scientist analyzed the data to find a pattern. |
| Deduce | To arrive at a conclusion through reasoning. | From the evidence, the detective was able to deduce the suspect’s location. |
| Define | To explain the meaning of something. | Can you define the term “global warming” for me? |
| Demonstrate | To clearly show or prove something by giving evidence. | The teacher will demonstrate the experiment for the class. |
| Denote | To indicate or be a sign of something. | The red color on the map denotes high temperatures. |
| Deny | To refuse to admit or acknowledge something. | He will deny all accusations made against him. |
| Depict | To represent by a drawing, painting, or other art form. | The mural depicts scenes from the local history. |
| Derive | To get something from a specified source | Many English words derive from Latin. |
| Design | To create a plan or drawing to show the look and function of something. | She will design the new website for the company. |
| Detect | To identify or discover the presence of something. | The equipment can detect even the smallest gas leaks. |
| Devote | To give all or a large part of one’s time or resources to a particular task or cause. | She devotes her weekends to volunteering at the animal shelter. |
| Differentiate | To ascertain or recognize what makes someone or something different. | It is hard to differentiate between the identical twins. |
| Dimension | A measurable extent of some kind, for example length, breadth, depth, or height. | The engineer provided the exact dimensions of the new building. |
| Diminish | To make or become less. | The medicine helped to diminish the pain. |
| Discriminate | To recognize a distinction; to differentiate. | The ability to discriminate between right and wrong is important in decision-making. |
| Dispose | To get rid of by giving to someone else or throwing away. | Please dispose of the trash properly. |
| Distinct | Recognizably different in nature from something else. | The two species are distinct, with different characteristics and habitats. |
| Distort | To twist out of shape; to give a misleading or false account or impression. | The article distorts the facts to fit its agenda. |
| Diverse | Showing variety; very different. | The community is known for its diverse cultural backgrounds. |
| Document | A piece of printed, written or electronic material that provides information or evidence. | Please read the document carefully before signing. |
| Domain | An area owned or controlled by a particular ruler or government. | The internet has many different domains, each serving a unique purpose. |
| Domestic | Relating to the running of a home or family relations; national as opposed to foreign. | She enjoys domestic activities like cooking and gardening. |
| Dominant | Most important, powerful, or influential. | In the 20th century, the United States became the dominant economic power. |
| Draft | The initial draft of a written work. | The writer is working on the first draft of her new book. |
| Drama | A play for theater, radio, or television; an emotional, exciting or unexpected series of events. | The movie was full of emotional drama that captivated the audience. |
| Duration | The time during which something continues. | The duration of the concert was over three hours. |
| Dynamic | Characterized by constant progress, activity, or change. | The company’s growth was driven by its dynamic leadership. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter E (27 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | The system of production and consumption of services and goods in a particular country. | The country’s economy grew rapidly after the new policies were implemented. |
| Edit | To create written content for publication by altering, correcting, or summarizing it. | The editor will edit the manuscript before it is sent to the publisher. |
| Eliminate | To get rid of or remove something completely. | The company plans to eliminate waste by recycling more. |
| Emphasis | Special importance, value, or prominence given to something. | The teacher placed a strong emphasis on the importance of homework. |
| Empirical | To be based on experience or observation rather than theory or pure logic. | The scientist gathered empirical evidence to support the hypothesis. |
| Enable | To give someone or something the authority or means to do something. | The new software will enable users to track their expenses easily. |
| Encounter | To unexpectedly experience or be faced with something difficult. | We encountered many obstacles during our journey. |
| Enforce | To compel compliance with or observance of a law, rule, or obligation. | The police are there to enforce the law. |
| Enhance | To improve the value, quality or extent of something. | The company plans to enhance its product line to attract more customers. |
| Ensure | To make certain that something will occur or be the case. | The contract will ensure that both parties adhere to the agreement. |
| Entity | A thing with independent and distinct existence. | Each department functions as a separate entity within the organization. |
| Environment | The conditions or surroundings in which an animal, person or plant lives or operates. | The environment is significant in the health of all living organisms. |
| Equip | To supply with the required items for a sepcific purpose. | The soldiers were equipped with the latest technology. |
| Equivalent | Equal in amount, function, value, meaning, etc. | One dollar is equivalent to approximately 0.85 euros. |
| Establish | To set up on a firm or permanent basis. | The company was established in 1990 and has grown steadily since. |
| Estimate | To roughly judge or calculate the value, number, quantity, or extent of something. | The engineer will estimate the cost of the new project. |
| Ethic | Moral principles that govern a person’s manner or the conducting of an activity. | The business adheres to a strict code of ethics that prioritizes honesty and integrity. |
| Evaluate | To assess the quality or the value of something. | The board will evaluate the candidates’ progress at the end of the term. |
| Evident | Clearly understood or seen; obvious. | The benefits of the new policy were evident after just a few months. |
| Exceed | To be greater in number or size than something else. | The final cost of the project exceeded the budget. |
| Exclude | To deny someone access to or prevent from being involved in something. | The rules exclude anyone under the age of 18 from participating in the competition. |
| Exhibit | To publicly display something, especially in a gallery or museum. | The artist’s work will be exhibited in the city’s main museum next month. |
| Expand | To become larger or more extensive. | The company has plans to expand its operations into new markets next year. |
| Expert | A person who is very knowledgeable about or skillful in a particular area. | She is an expert in data analysis and has been working in the field for over a decade. |
| Explicit | To state clearly and in detail, leaving no room for doubt or confusion. | The instructions were explicit, making it easy to complete the task. |
| Exploit | To make full use of and derive benefit from a resource. | The company is accused of exploiting its workers by underpaying them. |
| Extract | To remove, especially by effort or force. | The dentist had to extract my tooth because it was severely decayed. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter F-H (22 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Facilitate | To make an action or process easier or more likely to happen. | The new software will facilitate communication between team members. |
| Factor | A fact, circumstance or influence that contributes to a result. | The rain was a key factor in the cancellation of the event. |
| Feature | A distinct aspect or attribute of something. | The phone’s best feature is its camera |
| Federal | Concerning the national government of a nation. | The federal government passed new laws to regulate banking. |
| Flexible | Capable of bending without breaking; adaptable to new situations. | The job offers flexible hours, allowing employees to work from home. |
| Fluctuate | To rise and fall irregularly in amount or number. | Prices tend to fluctuate with changes in demand. |
| Focus | The center of interest or activity. | The speaker asked the audience to focus on the main points of the presentation. |
| Format | The way in which something is arranged or set out. | The document should be saved in read- only format before submission. |
| Formula | A procedure or method for achieving something, often expressed mathematically. | The formula for calculating area is width multiplied by length. |
| Framework | The basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text. | The project is built within the framework of the company’s strategic goals. |
| Function | An purpose or activity natural to or intended for a person or thing. | The function of the lungs is to oxygenate the blood. |
| Fund | A purpose or activity natural to or intended for a person or thing. | The charity set up a fund to support disaster relief efforts. |
| Fundamental | Forming a necessary core or base of importance. | Trust is a fundamental part of a healthy relationship. |
| Generate | To cause something, especially an emotion or situation, to arise or come about. | The campaign aims to generate public interest in the issue. |
| Global | Relating to the whole world; worldwide. | Climate change is a global crisis which affects everyone on the planet. |
| Goal | The object of a person’s effort or ambition; an aim or desired result. | Her main goal is to complete the project by the end of the year. |
| Grant | To consent to provide or permit something that has been requested. | The govenment granted him a scholarship for his outstanding academic achievements. |
| Guarantee | A formal assurance, usually in writing, that certain conditions will be fulfilled. | The company offers a one-year guarantee on all its products. |
| Guideline | A general principle, rule or piece of advice. | The company issued new guidelines for remote work during the pandemic. |
| Hierarchy | A structure where individuals within an organization or community are arranged by their rank or level of power. | The corporate hierarchy determines how decisions are made within the company. |
| Highlight | To emphasize or make prominent. | The report highlights the key issues facing the healthcare industry. |
| Hypothesis | A proposed interpretation created from insufficient evidence as a foundation for additional inquiries. | The scientist formulated a hypothesis that the new drug could reduce symptoms. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter I-L (46 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Identical | Exactly alike in every way. | The twins wore identical outfits to the party. |
| Identify | To recognize or distinguish something or someone. | The witness was able to identify the suspect in the lineup. |
| Ideology | A set of concepts and principles, particularly one that serves as the foundation for economic or political theories. | His political ideology influences his decision-making. |
| Illustrate | To make something clear or explain by using examples, charts, or pictures. | The teacher used a video to illustrate the concept of photosynthesis. |
| Impact | The effect or influence of one person, thing, or action on another. | The new law had a significant impact on small businesses. |
| Implicate | To show someone to be involved in a crime or to be responsible for something harmful. | The evidence implicates several individuals in the fraud case. |
| Impose | To force something unwelcome or unfamiliar to be accepted. | The government plans to impose new taxes on luxury goods. |
| Incentive | Something that motivates someone to do something. | The company offers cash bonuses as an incentive for meeting sales targets. |
| Incidence | The rate, frequency or occurrence of a disease, crime, or something else undesirable. | There has been an increase in the incidence of cyber attacks in recent years. |
| Incline | To feel willing or favorably disposed toward an action, belief, or attitude. | She is inclined to believe that the project will be successful. |
| Incorporate | To take in or include something as part of a whole. | The new plan will incorporate feedback from employees across all departments. |
| Indicate | To point out, show, or suggest something. | The results indicate that the treatment was ineffective. |
| Individual | A single human being as distinct from a group, class, or family. | Each individual has the right to voice their opinion. |
| Induce | To bring about or give rise to something. | The doctor used medication to induce labor. |
| Infer | To deduce information from evidence and reasoning rather than from explicit statements. | From her tone, I can infer that she was not happy with the results. |
| Inherent | To exist in something as a permanent, essential, or characteristic attribute. | The risks are inherent in any major financial investment. |
| Initiate | To cause a process or action to begin. | The manager will initiate a new training program next month. |
| Innovate | To introduce new methods, products or ideas. | The company has been able to innovate and stay ahead of its competitors. |
| Insert | To put something into something else. | Please insert the correct password to log in. |
| Insight | A deep understanding of a person or thing. | His research provided valuable insight into consumer behavior. |
| Inspect | To look at something closely in order to assess its condition or to discover flaws. | The mechanic will inspect the car before giving an estimate for repairs. |
| Institute | To set in motion or establish something, especially a program or system. | The school will institute a new curriculum next year. |
| Integrate | To combine one thing with another so that they become a whole. | The software will help integrate all the company’s data systems. |
| Integrity | The quality of being honest. | The politician’s integrity was questioned after the scandal. |
| Intense | Of extreme force, degree, or strength. | The debate became more intense as both sides presented their arguments. |
| Interact | To engage with someone or something. | The children are encouraged to interact with one another during playtime. |
| Internal | Located inside or within something. | The company is conducting an internal audit of its financial records. |
| Interpret | To explain the meaning of something. | The scientist will interpret the data to determine the significance of the results. |
| Intervene | To come between so as to prevent or alter an outcome. | The teacher had to intervene when the argument between the students escalated. |
| Invest | To put money, effort, or time into something with the expectation of achieving a benefit. | He decided to invest in real estate for long-term financial gain. |
| Investigate | To conduct a structured or official investigation aimed at uncovering and exploring the facts. | The detectives are continuing to investigate the cause of the accident. |
| Invoke | To call on a higher power or authority for assistance or as an authority. | The lawyer decided to invoke a rarely used legal statute to strengthen her case. |
| Involve | To include something as a necessary part or result. | The project will involve several departments working together. |
| Isolate | To set apart from others. | The virus has been isolated in the lab for further study. |
| Issue | An important topic or problem. | Climate change is a major issue facing the world today. |
| Justify | To show or prove to be right or reasonable. | The CEO had to justify the company’s decision to close several stores. |
| Label | A piece of paper, cloth, or other material that is attached to something and gives information about it. | The bottle’s label clearly states the ingredients of the product. |
| Layer | A sheet, quantity, or thickness of material, usually one of several, covering a surface or body. | The cake had several layers of chocolate and cream. |
| Lecture | An educational talk to an audience. | The professor gave a fascinating lecture on the history of ancient civilizations. |
| Legislate | To make or enact laws. | The government needs to legislate to address the problem of air pollution. |
| Levy | To impose a tax, fee, or fine. | The city decided to levy a new tax on property owners to fund public schools. |
| Liberal | Open to new opinions or behaviours and willing to discard traditional values. | She holds liberal views on education and believes in reforming the system. |
| License | A license granted by an authority to possess or utilize something, engage in a specific activity, or conduct a business | You need a license to drive a car in most countries. |
| Link | A relationship or connection between people, things, or ideas. | The report found a strong link between exercise and mental health. |
| Locate | To discover the exact place or position of something. | The detectives were able to locate the missing person after days of searching. |
| Logic | Reasoning assessed or conducted according to strict principles of validity. | The scientist explained the logic behind the experiment’s design. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter M-O (35 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Maintain | To keep something in good condition or continue at the same level or rate. | It is important to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regularly. |
| Major | Important, serious, or significant. | The company made a major announcement about its new product line. |
| Manipulate | To control or influence something or someone cleverly or unscrupulously. | He tried to manipulate the data to make the results look better than they were. |
| Margin | The difference between the expense of manufacturing an item and the amount it is sold for. | The business operates on a small profit margin. |
| Mature | Fully developed physically; showing emotional and mental development. | The child is very mature for her age, handling complex situations well. |
| Maximize | To make as large or great as possible. | The company aims to maximize profits by increasing efficiency. |
| Mechanism | A system or structure that allows something to work. | The security mechanism ensures that only authorized personnel can enter the building. |
| Mediate | To bring about an agreement by intervening between people in a dispute. | The lawyer was called in to mediate the disagreement between the two parties. |
| Method | A way of doing something, especially a systematic way. | The scientific method is crucial for conducting accurate experiments. |
| Military | Relating to soldiers, arms, or war. | He served in the military for ten years before retiring. |
| Minimal | The least amount possible. | The programme was completed with minimal disruption to the workflow. |
| Modify | To make minor or partial changes to something. | The engineer had to modify the design to meet new safety regulations. |
| Monitor | To check and observe the progress or quality of something over a period of time. | The teacher will monitor the students during the test to ensure no cheating occurs. |
| Motive | A motive for taking action, particularly one that is concealed or not readily apparent | The detective tried to uncover the criminal’s motive for committing the crime. |
| Mutual | Experienced or done by two or more parties toward each other. | They have mutual respect for one another despite their differences. |
| Negate | To nullify or make ineffective. | The new evidence will negate the previous conclusions. |
| Network | A group or system of interconnected people or things. | She built a strong network of professionals during her career. |
| Neutral | Not supporting or favoring either side in a conflict or disagreement. | The country remained neutral throughout the conflict. |
| Nonetheless | In spite of that; nevertheless. | The weather was cold, but they went hiking nonetheless. |
| Norm | A standard or pattern, especially of social behavior, that is typical or expected. | In many cultures, it is the norm to greet people with a handshake. |
| Notion | A belief or idea. | She had a vague notion of what the project would involve but needed more details. |
| Objective | Considering only facts, not influenced by personal feelings or opinions | The journalist tried to remain objective when reporting on the issue. |
| Obligate | To bind someone legally or morally to an action or course of action. | The contract will obligate you to complete the project by the end of the year. |
| Obtain | To get or acquire something. | You must obtain permission from the owner before entering the property. |
| Obvious | Easily perceived or understood; clear. | It was obvious that she was upset after the meeting. |
| Occupy | To take up space, time, or attention; to live in or use a space. | The family will occupy the new house next month. |
| Occur | To happen or take place. | The accident occurred just as the rain began to pour. |
| Offset | To counterbalance or compensate for something. | The company’s losses were offset by gains in the international market. |
| Ongoing | Continuing; still in progress. | The investigation is ongoing, and new evidence may emerge soon. |
| Option | A thing that is or may be chosen. | She has the option to work from home or in the office. |
| Orient | To align or position something relative to a particular direction or environment. | The map is designed to help users orient themselves in the city. |
| Outcome | The result or effect of an action or situation. | The outcome of the election was surprising to many political analysts. |
| Output | The amount of something produced by a person, machine, or industry. | The factory’s output has increased significantly in the past year. |
| Overall | Taking everything into account; in general. | Overall, the team performed well despite the challenges. |
| Overlap | To cover part of the same area of interest or activity. | The responsibilities of the two departments often overlap, causing confusion. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter P-Q (44 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Panel | A group of people gathered for a purpose, like a discussion or judging. | The panel of interviewers will evaluate the candidates for the job. |
| Paradigm | A typical example or model of something | The company’s new management approach represents a significant shift in their paradigm. |
| Parallel | Continuing in the same direction, maintaining equal distance at every point, never meeting. | The two roads run parallel to each other for several miles. |
| Parameter | A limit that defines the scope of a particular process or activity. | We need to set clear parameters for the project to ensure it stays on track. |
| Participate | To take part in an activity or event. | Staff are encouraged to participate in the training sessions. |
| Perceive | To become aware of something through the senses. | She could perceive a change in his attitude towards the project. |
| Persist | To continue firmly or stubbornly in an action despite difficulty or opposition. | Despite the challenges, she continued to persist in her efforts to finish the project. |
| Perspective | A particular attitude toward or way of regarding something; a point of view. | From her perspective, the proposal seemed like a good idea. |
| Phase | A distinct period or stage in a process or development. | The project is entering its final phase. |
| Phenomenon | A fact or circumstance that is seen to be present or occur, particularly one whose origin is uncertain | The Northern Lights are a phenomenon that attracts people every year. |
| Philosophy | The examination of the basic essence of knowledge, reality, and existence. | She is majoring in philosophy at the university. |
| Physical | Relating to the body as opposed to the mind; tangible or concrete. | Regular physical exercise helps to maintain good health. |
| Portion | A part of a whole; an amount, section, or piece of something. | Please divide the cake into equal portions so that everyone gets a piece. |
| Pose | To present or constitute (a problem, danger, or difficulty). | The new rules pose a challenge for small businesses. |
| Positive | Characterized by or consisting of the presence of qualities or attributes that are good. | She maintained a positive attitude throughout the difficult situation. |
| Potential | Showing or having the capacity to develop into something in the future. | The new technology has great potential to revolutionize the industry. |
| Practitioner | An individual actively engaged in an art, discipline, or profession, especially medicine. | He is a well-known practitioner in the field of cardiology. |
| Precede | To come before something in time, order, or position. | The formal meeting will precede the luncheon. |
| Precise | Marked by the accuracy or precision of expression or detail. | The measurements need to be very precise for the machine to function properly. |
| Predict | To say or estimate that a specific thing will happen in the future. | Traders predict that the stock market will rise in the coming months. |
| Preliminary | An action or occurrence that takes place before or as a preparation for something more significant or substantial. | The preliminary results suggest that the new treatment is effective. |
| Presume | To suppose that something is the case on the basis of probability. | I presume you are here to discuss the latest project updates. |
| Previous | Existing or occurring before in time or order. | He mentioned his previous job during the interview. |
| Primary | Of chief importance; principal. | Education is a primary concern for the community. |
| Prime | Of first importance; main. | The prime objective of the project is to increase efficiency. |
| Principal | The most important or senior person in an organization or group. | The principal of the school gave a speech at the graduation ceremony. |
| Principle | A basic truth or statement that acts as the basis for a belief system | The company operates on the principle of honesty and transparency. |
| Prior | Existing or coming before in time, order, or importance. | He had prior experience in the industry before starting his own business. |
| Priority | The condition or fact of being regarded or treated as more important than others. | The government made healthcare a top priority in its budget plan. |
| Proceed | To begin or continue a course of action. | After receiving approval, the team will proceed with the next phase of the project. |
| Process | A series of steps taken to achieve a particular outcome. | The hiring process includes interviews and reference checks. |
| Professional | Related to or associated with a profession. | She is a professional photographer with years of experience in the industry. |
| Prohibit | To officially prohibit something through legislation, regulation, or other forms of authority. | Smoking is strictly prohibited in the school. |
| Project | A planned piece of work | The team is working on a new research project that will be presented next month. |
| Promote | To support or actively encourage something; to advance in rank or position. | The company plans to promote its new product through a series of advertisements. |
| Proportion | A share of or part of something considered in comparative relation to a whole. | A large proportion of the dolls were defective. |
| Prospect | The likelihood of some future event occurring. | There is a good prospect of success for the new venture. |
| Protocol | The official system of rules or procedures governing affairs of state or diplomatic occasions. | The ambassador followed the correct diplomatic protocol during the meeting. |
| Psychology | The exploration of the human mind and its operations, particularly those influencing behavior. | She is studying psychology to better understand human behavior. |
| Publication | The preparation and issuing of a journal, book or other material for public sale. | The publication of the report was delayed due to revisions. |
| Purchase | To acquire something by paying for it. | She decided to purchase a new laptop after her old one broke down. |
| Pursue | To follow or chase something in order to catch or achieve it. | He decided to pursue a career in law after graduating from college. |
| Qualify | To meet the requirements or criteria for something. | She did not qualify for the scholarship due to her incomplete application. |
| Quote | To repeat someone’s words, usually with attribution. | He likes to quote famous authors during his presentations. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter R (33 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Radical | Something that is very different from the usual or traditional, often involving extreme changes. | The new policy represents a radical change in government strategy. |
| Random | Something that happens without a specific pattern, plan, or purpose. | The winners of the lottery were selected at random. |
| Range | The distance between two points or limits. | The temperature will vary within a range of 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. |
| Ratio | A relationship between two numbers showing how much of one thing there is compared to another. | The ratio of students to teachers is 20 to 1. |
| React | To respond or behave in a particular way in response to something. | How did the audience react to the speaker’s controversial comments? |
| Recover | To return to a normal state of health, mind, or strength. | It took her several months to fully recover from the surgery. |
| Refine | To improve something by making small changes, often to make it more pure, polished, or effective. | The company aims to refine its manufacturing process to reduce waste. |
| Regime | A government, especially an authoritarian one. | The current political regime has been in power for over a decade. |
| Region | An area or division, often part of a country or the world, that has definable characteristics but not always fixed boundaries | The mountain region is known for its scenic beauty. |
| Regulate | To control or maintain something according to rules or a set standard | The thermostat helps regulate the temperature in the house. |
| Reinforce | To strengthen or support with additional personnel or material. | The manager plans to reinforce the team with extra staff during the busy season. |
| Reject | To dismiss as faulty, inadequate or unacceptable. | The proposal was rejected by the board due to insufficient data. |
| Relate | To make or show a connection between. | The two incidents are closely related and may have the same cause. |
| Release | To set something free or allow it to move or be available | The company will release the new product next month. |
| Relevant | Closely connected to the matter at hand. | The information was not relevant to the topic of discussion. |
| Reluctant | Unwilling and hesitant; disinclined. | She was reluctant to sign the contract without reading it carefully. |
| Rely | To depend on with full confidence or trust. | The team relies on their leader for guidance during difficult projects. |
| Remove | To take something away or off from the position occupied. | Please remove all the clutter from your desk before the meeting. |
| Render | To provide or give a service, help, etc. | The artist was able to render a lifelike portrait in just a few hours. |
| Renew | To make something new again, or to extend the period of validity. | I need to renew my passport before the trip. |
| Reside | To live in a particular place. | Many university students reside in dormitories on campus. |
| Resolve | To find a solution to a problem or contentious matter. | They are working hard to resolve the conflict through negotiations. |
| Resource | Refers to a supply of something that can be used when needed. It can be materials, money, staff, or other assets | Water is a valuable natural resource that we must conserve. |
| Restrain | To hold back or limit someone or something | The police had to restrain the protestors to prevent further violence. |
| Restrict | To limit the size, amount, or range of something. | The new laws will restrict access to certain areas to protect wildlife. |
| Retain | To keep possession of something. | It is important to retain your receipts for tax purposes. |
| Reveal | To make something known that was previously secret or unknown. | The survey results reveal a clear indication of negative feeling towards the policy. |
| Revenue | Income, especially when of an organization and of a substantial nature. | The company’s revenue increased by 15% last quarter. |
| Reverse | To move backward or make something move backward. | They had to reverse their decision after receiving new information. |
| Revise | To reconsider and alter something, especially in light of further evidence. | The student was asked to revise her essay before submitting it for final grading. |
| Rigid | Not flexible or stiff, and it can also describe something that is strict or unchanging | The rules are quite rigid and leave little room for interpretation. |
| Role | The function or part someone plays in a particular situation or activity | His role in the project is to manage the contractors. |
| Route | A way or course taken in getting from a starting point to a destination. | The delivery driver followed the fastest route to reach the destination on time. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter S (35 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Scenario | A postulated sequence of possible events. | The worst-case scenario is that the project will be delayed by six months. |
| Scheme | A plan or system, often used to achieve a particular goal. | The government introduced a new housing scheme to support low-income families. |
| Scope | The extent or range of something. | The scope of the project includes all phases of development and testing. |
| Section | A distinct part of something. | The report includes a section on the environmental impact of the project. |
| Sector | An area or portion that is distinct from others. | The technology sector has shown significant growth over the last decade. |
| Secure | To make something safe or protected, or to obtain something firmly. | The company is looking to secure new contracts in the international market. |
| Seek | To attempt to find something. | She decided to seek advice from a friend about her situation. |
| Select | To choose something as being the best or most suitable. | Please select a seat for your trip |
| Sequence | A particular order in which related events or things follow each other. | The film follows a complex sequence of events leading to the main character’s revelation. |
| Series | A number of things, events, or people of a similar kind or related nature coming one after another. | The company released a series of advertisements promoting its new product. |
| Shift | To move or cause to move from one place to another. | There has been a shift in public opinion on climate change. |
| Significant | Sufficiently great or important to be worthy of attention. | The study revealed a significant increase in literacy rates. |
| Simulate | To copy the appearance or character of something. | The flight simulator is used to simulate various in-flight scenarios for training pilots. |
| Site | A piece of land where a town, structure, or monument is built. | The site for the new shopping center has been chosen by the developers. |
| So-called | Used to express doubt or skepticism about something referred to by a name or term. | The so-called expert gave advice that was later proven to be incorrect. |
| Sole | The only one; single or unique. | He is the sole proprietor of the business. |
| Source | Used to express doubt or scepticism about something referred to by a name or term. | The internet is a vast source of information on various topics. |
| Specify | To identify clearly and definitely. | The contract specifies the terms and conditions of the agreement. |
| Sphere | A round solid figure, or an area of interest or activity. | She has extensive knowledge in the sphere of education. |
| Stable | Unlikely to alter or collapse; securely fixed. | The economy has been relatively stable for the past two years. |
| Statistic | A numerical fact or datum, especially one computed from a sample. | According to the latest statistics, people are saving less than the previous generation. |
| Status | The relative social, professional, or other standing of someone or something. | His status within the company improved after he led a successful project. |
| Strategy | A strategy crafted to accomplish a long-term objective or overall goal. | The company developed a new marketing strategy to increase brand awareness. |
| Stress | Force or stress applied to a physical object or a condition of mental or emotional pressure. | He is experiencing a lot of stress because of the stock market crash. |
| Structure | The organization of and connections among the components or factors of a complex whole. | The structure of the organization allows for efficient decision-making processes. |
| Submit | To present a proposal, application, or other document for consideration or judgment. | Please submit your report by the end of the week. |
| Subsequent | Coming after something in time; following. | Subsequent events revealed that the initial reports were incorrect. |
| Substitute | A person or thing acting or serving in place of another. | Mike came on as a substitute striker in the football match. |
| Successor | A person or thing that succeeds another. | The company appointed a successor to the CEO after his retirement. |
| Sufficient | Enough; adequate. | The project team has sufficient resources to complete the task. |
| Summarize | To give a concise statement of the main points of something. | The speaker asked her to summarize the key points of the presentation. |
| Supplement | Something added to complete or enhance something else. | The vitamins act as a supplement to a healthy diet. |
| Survey | To examine and record the area and features of a land surface. | A professional team was hired to survey the land before construction began. |
| Sustain | To enhance or back either physically or mentally. | The organization works to sustain wildlife conservation efforts. |
| Symbol | A symbol or sign employed as a standard depiction of an object, function, or process. | The dove is often used as a symbol of peace. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter T (19 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Target | A object, person or place selected as the aim of an attack or goal. | The company’s sales target for this quarter is $2 million. |
| Task | A piece of work to be done or undertaken. | She completed the assigned task ahead of the deadline. |
| Team | A team of individuals collaborating to reach a shared objective. | The team worked late into the night to finish the project. |
| Technique | A method of carrying out a particular task, especially the execution of an artistic or scientific procedure. | He demonstrated a new technique for solving complex equations. |
| Technology | The use of scientific knowledge for useful and practical applications | Advances in technology have transformed the way we communicate. |
| Temporary | Lasting for only a short period of time; not permanent. | The company hired temporary workers to assist during the busy season. |
| Terminate | To bring something to an end. | The contract will terminate at the end of the fiscal year. |
| Theory | A proposal or a framework of concepts designed to clarify something. | The professor explained the theory behind the experiment in detail. |
| Thesis | A claim or proposition that is presented as a basis to be upheld or demonstrated. | She is writing her thesis on the impact of social media on communication. |
| Topic | A subject or matter dealt with in a conversation, discourse, or written work. | The discussion centered around the topic of climate change. |
| Trace | To find or discover by investigation. | The police were able to trace the call back to its source. |
| Tradition | The passing of traditions or convictions from one generation to the next. | It is a family tradition to gather for dinner every Sunday. |
| Transfer | To move from one place to another. | The employee requested a transfer to the company’s new office overseas. |
| Transform | To undergo a complete or striking transformation in shape, look, or nature. | The renovation will transform the old building into a modern workspace. |
| Transit | The act of passing across or through a place. | The package is currently in transit and will arrive tomorrow. |
| Transmit | To send or pass on from one person or place to another. | The virus can transmit through direct contact with an infected person. |
| Transport | To take or carry people or goods from one place to another. | The company uses trucks to transport horses across the country. |
| Trend | A general path in which something is progressing or evolving. | There is a trend in remote working in the tech community. |
| Trigger | To bring about an event or circumstance to occur or be present. | The announcement of the merger triggered a surge in the company’s stock price. |
TOEFL Vocabulary List – Letter U-Z (26 Words)
| Word | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Ultimate | Being or happening at the end of a process; final. | The ultimate goal of the project is to improve customer satisfaction. |
| Undergo | To undergo or encounter something, usually something undesirable or changeable. | She had to undergo surgery to repair the injury. |
| Undertake | To commit oneself to and begin a task or responsibility. | He will undertake the leadership of the new team next month. |
| Unify | To make or become united, uniform, or whole. | The goal is to unify all departments under a single management system. |
| Unique | Being the only one of its kind; unlike anything else. | Her design is unique and stands out from the rest. |
| Utilize | To make practical and effective use of something. | The company plans to utilize a temporary workforce for the project. |
| Valid | Possessing a solid foundation in reasoning or truth; sensible or persuasive. | You need a valid reason to apply for an extension. |
| Variable | Not consistent or having a fixed pattern; liable to change. | The weather in the region is highly variable and unpredictable. |
| Vehicle | An object utilized for carrying individuals or items, particularly over land. | They used a large vehicle to transport the equipment to the site. |
| Version | A specific version of something that varies in some aspects from a prior version. | The new version of the software includes several improvements. |
| Via | By way of or through a particular place. | The package was sent via air mail to ensure faster delivery. |
| Viable | Capable of working successfully; feasible. | The company is exploring viable options for expanding its operations. |
| Virtual | Close to or roughly as outlined, but not entirely or in accordance with a precise definition. | The company holds virtual meetings with its international partners. |
| Visible | Able to be seen. | The mountains are clearly visible from the hotel balcony. |
| Vision | The capacity to envision or strategize for what lies ahead using creativity or insight. | The CEO’s vision for the company focuses on innovation and sustainability. |
| Visual | Relating to seeing or sight. | The movie’s visual effects were stunning and realistic. |
| Volume | The volume that a material or item takes up. | The volume of water in the reservoir has decreased significantly. |
| Voluntary | Completed, provided, or performed out of one’s own free will. | Participation in the survey is completely voluntary. |
| Welfare | The well-being, joy, and prosperity of an individual or community | The government is responsible for the welfare of its citizens. |
| Whereas | In contrast or comparison with the fact that. | She enjoys hiking, whereas he prefers staying indoors. |
| Widespread | Found or distributed over a large area or number of people. | The flu outbreak was widespread across the country. |
| Willing | Enthusiastic, or set to take action | She is willing to help out whenever necessary. |
| Wipe | To clean or dry something by rubbing its surface with a cloth or one’s hand. | Please wipe the table after you finish eating. |
| Witness | To see an event take place. | He was called to witness the signing of the contract. |
| Yield | To produce or provide something, such as a profit or result. | The investment is expected to yield a high turnover of sales. |
| Zone | A region or expanse of territory possessing a specific trait, function, or limitation. | The city designated this area as a hazardous zone. |
Tips for Studying TOEFL Vocabulary
- Create a Study Schedule: Set aside specific times to study each day and stick to your schedule. The key to learning a new language is consistency
- Use Flashcards: Flashcards are a great tool for memorising definitions and sentences. Write the words from this TOEFL Vocabulary List on one side and the definition with an example sentence on the other.
- Practice Using the Words: Write sentences using the new words. This helps you understand the context better and prepares you for the writing and speaking sections of the TOEFL.
- Review Frequently: Go back over the words you have already studied to make sure they stay fresh in your mind.
TOEFL Vocabulary – Key Takeaways
A strong vocabulary is crucial for you to succeed in your TOEFL exam. This TOEFL vocabulary list is a powerful tool to improve your language skills. Reviewing these essential words for TOEFL frequently and using them in context, such as in speaking practice with your tutor, will ensure you fully understand their meanings. By successfully mastering these 400 words, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle the vocabulary challenges presented in the TOEFL exam.
More FREE TOEFL Resources to Strengthen Your Skills
A strong vocabulary is essential for success in all TOEFL sections, especially speaking. Precise word choice helps you express ideas clearly and confidently. If you’re preparing for the Speaking section, these guides and templates will help you structure high-scoring responses:
- TOEFL Speaking Task 1 Guide & Template – Learn how to organise your independent response with sample answers and key strategies.
- TOEFL Speaking Task 2 Guide & Template – Master the integrated task with a structured approach and response template.
- TOEFL Speaking Task 3 Guide & Template – Understand how to explain the connection between reading and lecture content effectively.
- TOEFL Speaking Task 4 Guide & Template – Develop strong summarisation skills for academic lectures with a clear response framework.
For more TOEFL preparation strategies, visit our TOEFL Test Prep Hub. It’s your go-to resource for FREE guides, study tips, and practice materials for all TOEFL Speaking Tasks.
TOEFL Vocabulary – FAQs
Why Is It Important To Study A TOEFL Vocabulary List?
A TOEFL vocabulary list helps you understand the content you will be presented with on the exam. Acquainting yourself with these terms can enhance your skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Knowing the right words can make a significant difference in your overall TOEFL score.
How Many Words Should I Aim To Learn For The TOEFL?
While there is no set number, most students find it helpful to learn at least 400 essential TOEFL words. This range covers a variety of academic and everyday vocabulary you are likely to encounter during the test.
What Is The Best Way To Study TOEFL Vocabulary?
The best approach is to create a study routine incorporating multiple methods— reading academic texts, practising writing and speaking new words with sample sentences, and using a TOEFL vocabulary list to create flashcards. Regular practice helps reinforce the words and their meanings in context.
How Can I Improve My Retention Of TOEFL Vocabulary Words?
To retain TOEFL vocabulary effectively, it’s crucial to use the words in context. You can practice by writing sentences, having conversations with English speakers or working with a tutor.
Are The Words On A TOEFL Vocabulary List Enough To Score High On The Exam?
A TOEFL vocabulary list is a great starting point, but you should also focus on developing your overall language skills, including grammar, reading comprehension, and listening. The words on the list will boost your understanding, but practising with real test questions is the best way to prepare fully for the exam.
How Soon Before My Exam Should I Start Learning TOEFL Vocabulary Words?
The sooner you begin learning the better! Give yourself enough time to really understand and master using these words in English flexibly before you take the exam. This gives you enough time to go through the entire TOEFL vocabulary list, practice, and review thoroughly before test day.
Should I Focus On Difficult Words Or Common TOEFL Words?
While learning difficult words can be beneficial, focusing on the most common TOEFL vocabulary is also effective for improving your score. A well-rounded TOEFL list of words will include both common and challenging terms, helping you navigate a variety of test scenarios.
Can TOEFL Vocabulary Help In Other Areas Of The Exam Besides Reading?
Yes, TOEFL vocabulary plays a key role in all sections of the test. A solid TOEFL vocabulary list is essential for overall exam success.