Beware of IELTS synonym lists
Graphics of IELTS vocabulary synonyms can look helpful. They suggest that some synonyms are 'better' than others.
Example
End - terminate, conclude, cease
Many graphics will suggest that 'terminate', 'conclude' and 'cease' are better words to use than end. Not true.
1. What time does this film end?
This sentence will become significantly worse if you write 'what times does this film terminate?'
Terminate has a specific meaning and context in which in can be used. Eg. to terminate a contract.
These types of tips look like 'bitesized help', but they can create problems.
For every new word, always check its meaning, its context, example sentences of how to use it and differences from similar words.
Posted Sep 8, 2026, 10:21 AM UTC
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