50 Synonyms That Actually Boost Your Score

Most vocabulary lists are useless. They give you random words with no context. No guidance. No system. You memorize
them, then freeze on test day. This list is different. I analyzed hundreds of Band 7, 8, and 9 essays to find the exact
words that appear most often in high-scoring writing. These are the practical, high-impact synonyms that examiners
actually reward.
Why This List Is Different
I didn't just pick impressive-sounding words. Here's
exactly what I did:

01

Collected 300+ real Band 7-9 essays

Gathered actual IELTS tests for authentic analysis

02

Identified overused basic words

Found commonly repeated terms like "people",

"important", "good", etc.

03

Found high-scoring alternatives

Identified the synonyms that repeatedly appeared in

top-scoring essays
How to Use This List (The Right Way)
Here is a video on how to remember new words.

Don't try to memorize everything at once. That's the mistake most students make.

Here's my system:

1 2

Pick Your Starting 5 Context Practice

Choose 5 words from this list that feel most natural to Don't just memorize definitions. Practice each word in
you. Practice using them in sentences until they feel different situations:
automatic.
Writing about education
Discussing the environment
Talking about technology

3 4

Pressure Testing Integration

Use your 5 words in timed writing practice. When they Keep expanding until you're using 2-5 advanced
feel natural under pressure, add 5 more. words naturally in every essay.

Remember: Quality beats quantity every time.

How NOT to Use This List
o Don't Force "Impressive" Words
Wrong: "Individuals should ameliorate their quotidian existence."
Sounds fake and pretentious.

Right: "People should improve their daily lives." Clear and confident.

o Don't Use Words You're Unsure About

If you're not 100% confident about a word's meaning, don't use it.
Uncertainty shows in your writing, and examiners notice.

o Don't Try to Use Every Word in One Essay

Students who stuff essays with advanced vocabulary sound unnatural.
Use 5-10 high-level words per essay, maximum.

o Don't Ignore Context

Wrong: "Many individuals believe..." (talking about children)

Right: "Many youngsters believe..."

Context matters. Choose the right word for the situation.

Your Next Steps
Remember: The goal isn't to impress the examiner
Choose your starting 5 words with big words.
Select the ones that feel most natural to
The goal is to express your ideas clearly and precisely.
you
That's what gets you Band 7+.

Practice them in context

Use them in different situations until they

feel natural

Test them under pressure

Use them in timed writing exercises

Gradually expand

Add more words to your active vocabulary

Focus on natural usage

Aim for clarity over impressive-sounding

words
1. People
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

This is one of the most common words in English, but

relying on it too much can make your essay sound basic. Individuals
In IELTS, you often need to be more specific. Knowing
"Many individuals believe that the government
synonyms shows you can choose the right word for the
should be solely responsible..." (This sounds
right context.
slightly more formal and academic).

Example Sentence:

Many people believe that the government should be The public

solely responsible for environmental protection.
"The public often believes that the government
should be solely responsible..." (This refers to
people as a collective group).

Citizens

"Many citizens believe that the government should

be solely responsible..." (This is perfect when
discussing rights, duties, and a person's
relationship with their country).
2. Important
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

You will often need to argue that a point is important.

However, 'important' is sometimes overused. Using Crucial
stronger, more descriptive synonyms will make your
"It is crucial for young people to learn a second
arguments more persuasive.
language." (Implies it's a decisive point for future
success).
Example Sentence:

It is important for young people to learn a second

language. Vital

"It is vital for young people to learn a second

language." (Suggests it is necessary or essential for
life/success).

Essential

"It is essential for young people to learn a second

language." (Implies it is a fundamental, necessary
component).
3. Good
Context & Why you need to know it:

'Good' can be quite a vague adjective in academic

writing. What does 'good' actually mean? Examiners look
for precision. Replacing 'good' with a more descriptive
word makes your writing clearer and more impactful.

Example Sentence:
Spending time in nature has a good effect on mental
health.

Beneficial

"Spending time in nature has a beneficial effect

on mental health." (Clearly states it provides an
advantage or help).

Positive

"Spending time in nature has a positive effect on

mental health." (A direct and academic-sounding
alternative).

Favourable

"Spending time in nature has a favourable effect

on mental health." (Indicates an outcome that is
advantageous).
4. Develop
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:
This is a versatile verb used to talk about progress,
growth, or creating something new. It's excellent for Cultivate
discussing solutions, skills, or economic changes. "Countries need to cultivate more sustainable
sources of energy." (Suggests gradual, careful
Example Sentence:
development).
Countries need to develop more sustainable sources of
energy.
Foster

"Countries need to foster more sustainable

sources of energy." (Implies encouraging
something to grow).

Establish

"Countries need to establish more

sustainable sources of energy." (Focuses on
the creation and setting up of these sources).
5. Increase (verb)
Context & Why you need to know it: 120

Essential for both Task 1 (describing data trends) and

Task 2 (discussing problems or solutions, e.g., an 80

increase in crime or the need to increase funding).

Example Sentence: 40

The government plans to increase investment in the

public transport system. 0
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023

Synonyms & Examples:

Boost: "The government plans to boost investment

in the public transport system." (A strong, dynamic
word).
Raise: "The government plans to raise investment in
the public transport system." (This would indicate
that it will start a new initiative to increase
investment).
6. Government
Context & Why you need to know it:

A key stakeholder in almost every IELTS common Task 2

topic (education, environment, health, etc.). You need
synonyms to avoid repeating "the government" in every
other sentence.

Example Sentence:

The government is responsible for creating policies that

protect its citizens.

Synonyms & Examples:

The authorities: "The authorities are responsible

for creating policies..." (A general term for people in
power).
The state: "The state is responsible for creating
policies..." (Refers to the governing body of a nation).
Policymakers: "Policymakers are responsible for
creating policies..." (Focuses on the individuals and
groups who create the rules).
7. Society
Context & Why you need to know it:

This word is at the heart of many essay questions about

social trends, culture, and community issues.
The community
Example Sentence:
"Modern technology has had a profound impact on
Modern technology has had a profound impact on the community." (Can be used for society in
society. general, or a more local group).

The general populace

"Modern technology has had a profound impact on

the general populace." (A more formal, high-level
term for the population).

Civilisation

"Modern technology has had a profound impact on

modern civilisation." (A broader term, good for
discussing major, long-term historical shifts).
8. Technology
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:
A very frequent topic in IELTS. Being able to discuss it
with a varied vocabulary is a huge advantage. Innovation

Example Sentence: "The advancement of innovation has transformed

the way we work..." (Focuses on the new ideas and
The advancement of technology has transformed the inventions).
way we work and communicate.

Digital tools

"Digital tools have transformed the way we work

and communicate." (More specific, good when
talking about computers, apps, and the internet).

Technological progress

"Technological progress has transformed the way

we work and communicate." (A good phrase to use
for variety).
9. Environment
Context & Why you need to know it:

Another classic IELTS topic. You need to be able to

discuss nature, pollution, and conservation with
academic language.

Example Sentence:
Protecting the environment is a challenge that requires
global cooperation.

Synonyms & Examples:

The natural world: "Protecting the natural world is a
challenge that requires global cooperation." (A lovely,
descriptive alternative).
Ecosystems: "Protecting our ecosystems is a
challenge that requires global cooperation." (More
scientific, referring to the complex network of living
organisms).
The planet: "Protecting the planet is a challenge
that requires global cooperation." (Used for
emphasis on a global scale).
10. Children
Context & Youngsters The youth / Minors
Why you "It is vital that
Young "It is vital that
need to youngsters are
people minors are
know it: taught about "It is vital that taught about
Education, healthy eating the youth are healthy eating
family, and habits..." taught about habits..." (A
social (Slightly less healthy eating more
development formal but habits..." formal/legal
are common acceptable in (Refers to this term, good for
themes. You'll IELTS demographic essays on law
need speaking). group as a and
alternatives to whole). responsibility).
'children'.
Note: this is
Example heavily
Sentence: It is dependent on
vital that context.
children are Teenagers/Ado
taught about lescents can
healthy eating be used for
habits from a those between
young age. the ages of 13-
17/Infant for
babies
/Toddlers for 2-
3 year olds
11. Students
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Essential for any essay on the topic of education, from

primary school to university. Learners

"Universities should provide more mental health

Example Sentence:
support for their learners." (A broader term that
Universities should provide more mental health support emphasizes the act of learning).
for their students.

Pupils

"Schools should provide more support for their

pupils." (Typically used for school-age children,
not university students).

Scholars

"The university provides funding for its most

promising scholars." (Used for high-achieving or
academic students, often at a higher level).
12. Improve
Context & Why you need to know it:
Enhance
A core verb for suggesting solutions or discussing
"Governments must take steps to enhance
positive developments.
air quality..." (Means to intensify or increase
Example Sentence: the quality of something).

Governments must take steps to improve air quality in

major cities. Ameliorate

"Governments must take steps to

ameliorate the problem of poor air
quality..." (A high-level, formal word
meaning 'to make something bad better').

Refine

"The company sought to refine its

manufacturing process to reduce waste."
(Means to improve by making small
changes).
13. Effective
Context & Why you need to know it: 90

When you propose a solution in Task 2, you need to

argue that it will be 'effective'. Using a range of words 60

shows a better command of English.

Example Sentence: 30

Stricter penalties are an effective deterrent to crime.

0
Stricter Penalties Community Service Rehabilitation Education

Synonyms & Examples:

Productive: "Stricter penalties are a productive

deterrent to crime." (Suggests it produces the
desired results).
Potent: "Stricter penalties are a potent deterrent to
crime." (A powerful word, suggesting a strong
effect).
Successful: "Stricter penalties are a successful
deterrent to crime." (Focuses on the positive
outcome).
14. Necessary
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Used to express that something is required or must be

done. It's a strong way to frame a solution or a duty. Essential

"It is essential for individuals to take personal

Example Sentence:
responsibility..." (Means absolutely required,
It is necessary for individuals to take personal fundamental).
responsibility for their health.

Imperative

"It is imperative that individuals take personal

responsibility..." (A very strong, formal word
suggesting urgency and importance).
15. Different
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Useful for making comparisons and contrasts, which is a Various: "There are various approaches to solving
key skill in academic writing. this problem." (A very common and effective
synonym).
Example Sentence:
Diverse: "There are diverse approaches to solving
There are many different approaches to solving this this problem." (Emphasizes a wide range of distinct
problem. types).
16. Work (noun)
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

The world of work, careers, and employment is a Employment: "Finding fulfilling employment is a
frequent topic. major goal..." (A more formal term).
A career: "Building a fulfilling career is a major goal..."
Example Sentence:
(Implies a long-term professional journey).
Finding fulfilling work is a major goal for many young A profession: "Entering a fulfilling profession is a
adults. major goal..." (Often refers to jobs requiring special
training or education, like medicine or law).
17. Companies
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Essential for discussing topics related to business, the

economy, globalization, and marketing. Corporations

Example Sentence: "Corporations have a social responsibility..."

(Typically refers to large companies).
Companies have a social responsibility to minimize their
environmental impact.
Businesses

"Businesses have a social responsibility..." (A

general term for any commercial organisation).
18. Individual (noun)
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

A formal and academic alternative to 'person'. It's used to Person: "The rights of each person must be
discuss personal responsibility, rights, and the role of balanced..." (singular).
single people within a society. Citizen: "The rights of the citizen must be
balanced..." (Emphasizes the person's role in a state).
Example Sentence:

The rights of the individual must be balanced against

the needs of the community.
19. Global
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:
Topics like the environment, economy, and culture are
often discussed on a global scale. This adjective is Worldwide
crucial.
"Climate change is a worldwide issue..." (A direct

Example Sentence: and perfectly suitable synonym).

Climate change is a global issue that requires an

international response. International

"Climate change is an international issue..." (Used

when comparing or involving two or more nations).

Universal

"The desire for peace is a universal human trait."

(Means applying to everyone or everything,
everywhere).
20. Modern
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Used to contrast the present day with the past. It's a key Contemporary: "Contemporary lifestyles are often
word for essays on social change, tradition, and more sedentary..." (A more formal and academic-
technology. sounding synonym).
Present-day: "Present-day lifestyles are often more
Example Sentence:
sedentary..." (A clear and effective alternative).
Modern lifestyles are often more sedentary than those
of previous generations.
21. Many
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

A very common quantifier. While perfectly fine to use, Numerous: "Numerous experts argue that
relying on it too much can seem repetitive. Using automation will lead to job losses." (A direct and
synonyms adds academic flair. formal synonym).
A large number of: "A large number of experts
Example Sentence:
argue that automation will lead to job losses." (A
Many experts argue that automation will lead to job simple, effective phrase to add variety).
losses.
22. Help (verb)
Context & Why you need to know it:
Assist
A simple, common verb. In formal academic writing, it's
often better to use a more sophisticated alternative to "Volunteering can assist students in developing a

sound more authoritative. sense of responsibility." (A more formal alternative).

Example Sentence:
Aid
Volunteering can help students develop a sense of
responsibility. "Volunteering can aid the development of a
student's sense of responsibility." (Another formal
choice, often used with 'in' or in noun form).

Support

"Volunteering can support students in developing a

sense of responsibility." (Implies providing a
foundation or encouragement).
23. Provide
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

This is a strong, academic verb for talking about giving, Supply

supplying, or making something available. It's excellent
for essays about solutions. "Libraries supply access to a vast range of
information..." (A direct synonym, implies fulfilling
Example Sentence: a need).

Libraries provide access to a vast range of information

for free. Offer

"Libraries offer access to a vast range of

information..." (Suggests making something
available for people to accept or reject).

Furnish

"Libraries furnish the community with access to a

vast range of information." (A more formal, high-
level verb meaning to supply or provide).
24. Believe
Context & Why you need to know it:
Argue
Used for introducing an opinion or argument. Using
alternatives can show the strength of your conviction "I would argue that censorship in the media is

and add academic weight to your claims. sometimes justified." (Stronger, suggests you have
reasons and evidence).
Example Sentence:

I believe that censorship in the media is sometimes

Contend
justified.
"Some contend that censorship in the media is
sometimes justified." (A formal verb for putting
forward an argument).
25. Create
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

A powerful verb for discussing the act of making or Generate: "The government should implement
bringing something into existence, from jobs and policies to generate more jobs..." (Often used for
opportunities to policies and art. things like jobs, revenue, or electricity).
Establish: "The government should establish a
Example Sentence:
program to create more jobs..." (Implies setting
The government should implement policies to create something up on a firm, long-term basis).
more jobs for young graduates.
26. Education
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

A core IELTS topic. You need a range of words to discuss

it without sounding repetitive. Schooling

"Access to quality schooling is crucial for a nation's

Example Sentence:
progress." (Often refers more specifically to the
Access to quality education is crucial for a nation's instruction received at school).
progress.

Learning

"Lifelong learning is crucial for personal and

professional development." (A broader concept
that includes self-study and experience).
27. Health
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Another central IELTS topic covering everything from diet Well-being: "An individual's diet has a direct impact
and exercise to healthcare systems. on their overall well-being." (A broader term that
includes mental and social health, not just physical).
Example Sentence:
Physical condition: "An individual's diet has a direct
An individual's diet has a direct impact on their overall impact on their physical condition." (More specific
health. to the body).
Medical care / Healthcare: "The government needs
to invest more in public healthcare." (Refers to the
system of providing medical services).
28. Family
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:
A fundamental social unit and a common topic in
questions about society, tradition, and child The household
development.
"The average household now contains fewer

Example Sentence: people than it did 50 years ago." (Refers to the

people living in one house).
The family structure has changed significantly over the
last 50 years.
The domestic unit

"The domestic unit has changed significantly over

the last 50 years." (A very formal, sociological term
for the family/household).
29. Teachers
Context & Why you need to know it:

Essential vocabulary for any essay about education.

Example Sentence: Educators

Good teachers are essential for a positive learning "Good educators are essential for a positive
environment. learning environment." (A broader, more formal
term).

Tutors

"Many students hire private tutors to help them

with difficult subjects." (Refers to a teacher who
teaches individuals or small groups).

Instructors

"Driving instructors must be patient and clear."

(Often used for someone who teaches a practical
skill).
30. Adults
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Used to discuss people who are no longer children, often Grown-ups: "Many grown-ups are now returning to
in contrast to them. Essential for essays on education, university..." (Slightly less formal but widely
work, and life stages. understood and acceptable).
Mature individuals: "Mature individuals often have
Example Sentence:
different learning needs compared to younger
Many adults are now returning to university to gain new students." (A formal and respectful way to refer to
qualifications. adults).
31. Social
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

A key adjective describing anything related to society, Communal: "The rise of social media has impacted
community, and interaction between individuals. communal interaction." (Relating to a community).
Societal: "Societal norms have changed
Example Sentence:
dramatically in recent decades." (A very formal
The rise of social media has had a major impact on adjective relating to society as a whole).
people's social lives. Public: "His behaviour in a public setting was
unacceptable." (Relating to people in general).
32. Public (adjective)
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Used to describe services and spaces that are for the

use of everyone, often provided by the government. State-funded / State-run

"Investment in state-run transport is essential..."

Example Sentence:
(Specifies that it is funded and operated by the
Investment in public transport is essential to reduce state).
traffic congestion.

Civic

"Civic duty includes voting and respecting the

law." (Relating to a city or town, and the duties of
citizens).

Community

"The community swimming pool is open to

everyone." (Emphasises that it serves the local
community).
33. Local
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

An adjective to specify a particular area, neighbourhood, Community-based: "Supporting community-based

or region, often in contrast to 'national' or 'global'. businesses is beneficial..." (Emphasizes that the
business is part of and serves the community).
Example Sentence:
Neighbourhood: "The neighbourhood watch
Supporting local businesses is beneficial for the scheme helped to reduce crime." (Relating to a
community's economy. specific residential area).
Regional: "Supporting regional businesses is
beneficial for the area's economy." (Refers to a larger
area or region than just a town).
34. Time
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

An abstract concept that is central to many essays (e.g.,

use of free time, changes over time). You often need Leisure hours
phrases rather than single-word synonyms.
"People today seem to have fewer leisure hours
than in the past." (Specifically refers to non-work
Example Sentence:
time).
People today seem to have less free time than in the
past.
An era

"In a bygone era, people had more free time." (Used

to refer to a distinct period in history).
35. Life
Context & Why you need to know it:

A very broad term. Making it more specific shows a

higher level of language skill.
Existence
Example Sentence:
"Technology has changed almost every aspect of
Technology has changed almost every aspect of modern modern existence." (A more philosophical, formal
life. term).

Way of living / Lifestyles

"Technology has changed almost every aspect of

modern lifestyles." (Focuses on the manner in
which people live).

Daily routines

"Technology has changed the daily routines of

most people." (More specific to day-to-day
activities).
36. Experience (noun)
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Can refer to an event you've lived through or, more

commonly in IELTS, the knowledge and skill gained from Practical knowledge
doing something.
"Most employers look for candidates with practical
knowledge." (Highlights the hands-on aspect).
Example Sentence:

Most employers look for candidates with practical work

experience. Expertise

"Most employers look for candidates with expertise

in the field." (A stronger word, implying a high level
of skill).
37. Skills
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Absolutely essential for topics on education and Abilities: "The education system should focus on
employment. teaching practical abilities..." (A general synonym).
Competencies: "The education system should focus
Example Sentence:
on developing core competencies." (A formal,
The education system should focus on teaching business-oriented word for skills needed to do a job).
practical skills as well as academic knowledge. Prowess: "He was admired for his academic
prowess." (A high-level word meaning great skill or
expertise).
38. Information
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Central to discussions about media, the internet, and

education. Data

"The internet allows for the instant sharing of data

Example Sentence:
across the globe." (Often implies raw facts, figures,
The internet allows for the instant sharing of and statistics).
information across the globe.

Knowledge

"The internet allows for the instant sharing of

knowledge across the globe." (Implies a more
understood or organised form of information).
39. Community
Context & Why you need to know it:
Society
Refers to a group of people living in the same place or
having a particular characteristic in common. "Public libraries are vital for a well-functioning
society." (Broader, refers to people in a country or
Example Sentence: region).

Public libraries can be a vital hub for the local

community.
The populace

"The local populace can benefit from public

libraries." (A formal word for the inhabitants of an
area).

Neighbourhood

"A public library can be a vital hub for the

neighbourhood." (More specific to a residential
area).
40. Economic
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

A crucial adjective for discussing topics related to the Financial: "The government's main goal is to ensure
economy, finance, trade, and business. financial stability." (Relating to money
management).
Example Sentence:
Monetary: "The central bank sets monetary policy,
The government's main goal is to promote economic such as interest rates." (Specifically relating to the
growth. money in a country).

-4
2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
41. Personal
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:
An adjective for something relating to or affecting a
single individual. Used to contrast with 'public' or Individual
'general'.
"The choice to have children is a deeply individual

Example Sentence: decision." (A direct and formal synonym).

The choice to have children is a deeply personal

decision. Private

"The choice to have children is a private matter."

(Emphasizes that it is not for public interference).

Subjective

"Art appreciation is a highly subjective experience."

(Means based on personal feelings or opinions, not
external facts).
42. National
Context & Why you need to know it:
Nationwide
Describes something relating to an entire nation, as
opposed to local or global. "The government announced a nationwide
lockdown." (Means extending across the whole
Example Sentence: nation).

The country's national identity is built on its unique

history and culture.
Domestic

"Domestic policy focuses on issues within the

country." (Used to contrast with 'foreign' or
'international').
43. Significant
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

A more powerful and academic word than 'important' or

'big'. It means something is large or important enough to Substantial
be worthy of attention.
"There has been a substantial increase in the use

Example Sentence: of renewable energy." (Suggests a large amount or

size).
There has been a significant increase in the use of
renewable energy.
Considerable

"There has been a considerable increase in the

use of renewable energy." (Another strong word for
'large in amount').

Marked

"There has been a marked increase in the use of

renewable energy." (Means noticeable and clear).
44. Possible
Context & Why you need to know it: Synonyms & Examples:

Used to talk about whether something can be done. It's Feasible: "It is feasible to reduce pollution if we take
key for discussing solutions in Task 2. collective action." (Means possible and practical to
do easily or conveniently).
Example Sentence:
Viable: "This is not a financially viable solution."
It is possible to reduce pollution if we take collective (Means capable of working successfully; often used
action. in a business or practical context).
Attainable: "Setting attainable goals is key to
motivation." (Means able to be reached or achieved).
45-50: Advanced Vocabulary for High-Impact
Writing

Available Common

Example: Not enough funding is available for Example: Traffic congestion is a common
arts and culture. problem in most major cities.

Accessible: "Not enough funding is Widespread: "Traffic congestion is a

accessible for arts and culture." (Implies widespread problem in most major

1 it is easy to get or use). cities." (Found over a large area).

1
Obtainable: "Not enough funding is Ubiquitous: "Smartphones have become
obtainable for arts and culture." (A formal ubiquitous in modern society." (A high-
word for 'able to be got'). level word meaning present, appearing, or

On hand: "We need to use the resources found everywhere).

we have on hand." (Means present and Frequent: "Car accidents are a frequent
ready for use). occurrence on this road." (Happening
often).

Successful
General
Example: The campaign to raise awareness
about recycling was very successful. Example: The general opinion is that taxes
are too high.
Fruitful: "The discussion was very
fruitful, and we came up with many new Overall / Broad: "The overall opinion is
ideas." (Produces good results; that taxes are too high." (Considering
2 productive). 2 everything).
Prosperous: "The business became very Widespread: "There is widespread
prosperous." (Used for financial success agreement that taxes are too high." (Held
or flourishing in general). by many people).
Thriving: "The company is thriving in the Prevailing: "The prevailing opinion is that
current market." (Means growing or taxes are too high." (Means existing at a
developing vigorously). particular time; current).

Popular More (comparative)

Example: Streaming services have become Example: We need to put more effort into
extremely popular in recent years. protecting the environment.

Widespread: "The use of streaming Greater: "We need to put greater effort
services has become widespread." into protecting the environment." (A more
3 (Means found or distributed over a large formal and emphatic choice).
area or number of people). 3 Additional: "We need to provide
Prevalent: "This belief is more prevalent additional funding for schools." (Used to
among younger generations." (Means talk about adding to what is already
widespread in a particular area or at a there).
particular time). Further: "Further research is needed to
confirm these findings." (Often used for
abstract things like research, details, or
thought).