words to use in an essay to impress your teacher

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21 Words to Use in Your Essays to Impress Your English Teacher ...

Sabrina 64 Comments

After years of writing assignments all throughout school, you start to become repetitive when choosing what words to use in your essays. But there is a whole language out there full of words that are sure to impress your English teacher! Teachers grow tired of reading commonplace words like “good” “says” and “thinks” in essay after essay! So next time you walk into English class, keep in mind these great words to use in your essays!

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Definition: (noun) a countless or extremely great number

Replaces: a lotMyriad is one of the greatest words to use in your essays! We all have a tendency to say things like “a lot of examples” or “many experiences” in our essays, but that doesn’t make your essay stand out to your teacher. If you want to make your teacher perk up, be sure to include this word in your essay! An example sentence could be “The author suggests a myriad of solutions for the problem.” If you still find writing overwhelming, you can always count on authors from write my essay service. They are true experts in writing essays and student papers, their work is full of synonyms and colorful expressions your English teacher will love.

This article provides an excellent list of words that can be used to impress an English teacher when writing an essay. Not only does it provide definitions and examples of how to use each word, but it also provides a link to a writing service that can help students with their essays.

The article is particularly useful for teenagers, as it provides a great starting point for learning how to write an essay that stands out. In addition to the 21 words suggested in the article, there are many more words that can be used to make an essay more interesting. For example, words like “elucidate”, “proliferate”, and “permeate” are all great words to use in an essay.

In addition to the words suggested in the article, it is important to use a variety of sentence structures, as this can make an essay more interesting and engaging. Using simple sentences, compound sentences, and complex sentences can add variety to an essay.

Finally, it is important to keep the essay focused on the topic. The essay should have a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction should include the main idea of the essay, and the body should provide evidence and examples to support the

Definition: (verb) state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully

Replaces: saysAnother stellar word to add to your mental dictionary is “asserts”. This verb is much more powerful than the alternative “says”, but it doesn’t make you sound like a vocabulary nerd when you write it! Asserts can be used in a myriad of situations, but make sure you don’t say it so frequently that it becomes just as repetitive as “says”! An instance where asserts would fit perfectly is “The author asserts that the issue is lacking simple solutions”.

This article is aimed to help teens improve their writing skills and impress their English teachers. The 21 words that are suggested to use in essays are all powerful verbs that can replace more commonly used words. For example, instead of using the verb “says”, the author suggests using “asserts”. Asserts is a more forceful and confident way of stating a fact or belief. It adds more emphasis to the point being made.

The article also provides examples of other words that can be used instead of the more commonly used words. For example, instead of using “explain”, the author suggests “elucidate”. Elucidate is a more formal and sophisticated word that could make a big difference in the quality of the essay.

The article also provides examples of how to use the words in a sentence. For example, instead of saying “the author says that the issue is lacking simple solutions”, the author suggests saying “the author asserts that the issue is lacking simple solutions”. This is a great way to show the reader that the point being made is strong and confident.

Overall, this article is a great resource for teens who are looking to improve their

Frequently asked questions

Using impressive words in your essays can make your writing more interesting and show your English teacher that you have a good vocabulary. It also helps you communicate your ideas more effectively and can earn you better grades!

Words that are descriptive, not too common, and correctly used can impress your teacher. You can find these words by reading books, articles, or even word lists. Always make sure the words fit with the context of your essay.

Yes! You can use impressive words in all types of essays, whether they’re narrative, persuasive, descriptive, or expository. Just make sure the words you choose make sense with what you're trying to say.

If you use a word wrong, it might confuse your reader or weaken your argument. Always double-check the meaning and usage of a new word in a dictionary or online before adding it to your essay. Practice using it in a sentence first if you’re unsure.

There is no set number, but it’s important not to overdo it. Using too many fancy words can make your essay hard to read. Aim for a balance of impressive vocabulary and simple language to keep your essay clear and engaging.

Definition: (adjective) outstandingly bad; shocking

Replaces: badWhy use an adjective like “bad” when you could easily switch it out for a scholarly word like “egregious”! This word is sure to impress your English teacher, so you should remember to use it in your next essay! While there are a myriad of words that can replace “bad”, such as "dreadful", and "terrible", egregious is one of my favorite words! It rolls off the tongue and makes you sound like a literary genius! A sample sentence could be “The author asserts that other solutions to the problem are simply egregious.”

This article is aimed at teenagers looking to improve their writing skills. It provides 21 words to use in their essays to impress their English teacher. The article provides definitions and examples of how to use each word. It also includes advice on how to make sure the words are used correctly. The article encourages teenagers to use more sophisticated language in their essays to make them stand out from the crowd. It also encourages them to practice using the words in order to become more confident in their writing.

Definition: (adjective) wrong; incorrect

Replaces: wrongErroneous is an easy word to remember because the word means what it sounds like - something containing error. Including erroneous in your essays will take your writing to the next level! After reading a myriad of essays containing simple words like “wrong” and “flawed”, your teacher will be refreshed by your vast vocabulary! When you assert your opinions using elevated vocabulary, your teacher will note that you’re a real brainiac, and respect you for that! A perfect opportunity to use this word is when describing an egregious statement from the author : “The author’s solutions for the problem were merely erroneous and absurd ideas.”

This text is aimed at teenagers who want to impress their English teachers with their writing. The article provides 21 words that can be used in essays to demonstrate a wider vocabulary. It gives an example of how to use the word 'erroneous' in a sentence and explains how using elevated language can make a positive impression on teachers. The article also encourages readers to think critically about the author's statements and use higher-level words to express their opinions.

Definition: (verb) to cause or give rise to

Replaces: causesWhen you replace “causes” with engenders, you’re sure to knock your teacher’s socks off! While “causes” isn’t the most egregious word to write in an essay, it can still get worn out after too much use. A myriad of students will write about what causes events in their next essay, but you’ll be the only one to describe what engenders events! Here’s a sample sentence so you know exactly what you’re doing: “The author is not at all erroneous when she asserts that solving the problem will engender a better quality of life.”

This text serves as a helpful guide for teenage students who are looking for new words to use in their essays to impress their English teachers. It provides 21 examples of words that can be used to replace commonly used words, such as ‘causes’, in order to make essays more interesting and engaging. The article also provides sample sentences for each word so that readers can get a better understanding of the word’s usage. The article is published on a women-focused blog in the ‘teen’ category, making it an ideal resource for teenage girls who are looking for help in writing their essays.

Definition: (verb) to make use of

Replaces: usesFor the longest time, I couldn’t think of another word to replace “use”. Eventually I came across “utilize”, but I used it so frequently that it became as egregious as “use”! Finally, I began writing “employs” instead. There are a myriad of ways to use “employs” in your essay, but no matter how you say it, this word will engender more success in your essay! Employ has a double meaning, because it also means to give a job to someone. But it isn’t erroneous to use “employ” in the second sense of the word. For example :“The author employs rhetorical questions in order to assert her beliefs in a more persuasive manner.”

This article provides 21 words that can be used to replace common words in essays to make them more sophisticated. It also provides examples of how to use these words in context. The article is targeted at teenage girls, as it is published on a women-focused blog in the “teen” category. It is a helpful resource for anyone who wants to improve their writing skills, as it provides a variety of words to use in essays that will make them stand out from the crowd.

Definition: (adjective) most notable or important

Replaces: importantSalient is a great word to employ when writing your next essay. While a myriad of other words can easily replace “important”, I usually rely on this word to take my essay to the next level! Salient can easily replace words like “main” or “important”, just be sure not to use it erroneously! I don’t think anyone could argue that replacing “important” with salient wouldn’t engender a better written essay. A great way to use this word is “The author’s most salient solution is rather egregious, because one can assert that her suggestions would fail to solve the problem.”

Salient elevates the prose, offering an air of sophistication and precision in writing. For instance, articulating that "The salient features of the study underscore its uniqueness," imparts a sense of discernment, highlighting the crucial aspects that stand out. It's not merely about peppered usage; it’s the strategic placement that matters. Make certain that when you identify something as salient , it truly is the crux or the pinnacle of your arguments. This judicious employment will surely captivate your readers, imparting a clearer understanding and a more compelling argument in your academic endeavors.

Definition: (verb) think, understand, and form judgments by a process of logic

Replaces: thinksLike employs, reasons is a word with two very different definitions. But “reasons” will most likely engender success when you employ the verb form of the word to replace “thinks”. A myriad of instances come up when writing an essay where you’ll need to describe what a person thinks, but we all know variety is a salient component of every good essay! You can switch out “thinks” for “reasons”, but be sure not to switch it out for erroneous words like “extrapolates” just to sound smarter! To-the-point writing with loads of variety is what most teachers crave! So you can definitely write something along these lines in your next essay :“The author reasons that we can solve the problem if we all work together, but the methods she asserts will help us do so are egregious.”

This article was written to help students impress their English teachers with their writing. It provides 21 words to use in essays to make them more interesting. It includes words such as “delineate,” “enumerate,” and “ubiquitous”. It also provides definitions and examples of how to use the words in context. Additionally, the article encourages students to use the words to replace commonly used words such as “thinks” and “says”. It also provides advice on how to use the words without sounding pretentious.

Advantageous

Definition: (adjective) providing an advantage; favorable; beneficial

Replaces: goodOne word all teachers see far too much is “good”! Teachers all of my high school career have asserted that they do not wish to see “good” in any student essays that year, but the word always sneaks in! Good has become an egregious word that no teacher can escape! While it isn’t erroneous to use “good” to describe pleasing things in your essay, there are a myriad of better replacement words that you can turn to when you need to describe something “good”. My go-to alternative for good is “advantageous”, and employing this word engenders a fabulous essay! You could write “The author’s most salient solution is her most advantageous, as one can reason that it would effectively solve the problem.”

Definition: (verb) shock or excite (someone), typically into taking action

Replaces: motivatesOften times while writing, it's advantageous to address how the author's words and technique affect the reader. If the writer aims to galvanize his readers, he or she is basically calling the reader to action, to stand up against egregious crimes, erroneous accusations, or a myriad of other injustices. If you notice that the author employs intense diction, or asserts outright that his speech is meant to engender change, you should probably us the word “galvanize” at least once in your essay! After seeing that word in your essay, your teacher will reason that you understood the text well and were able to create an essay regarding the most salient theme in the piece.

This article is a great resource for teens who are looking to up their game in writing essays for their English classes. It provides 21 words that can be used to impress English teachers, and each word is accompanied by a definition and an example of how it can be used in a sentence. The words range from “acerbic” (meaning “harshly critical”) to “galvanize” (meaning “shock or excite, typically into taking action”). The article also provides examples of how these words can be used in the context of a text, making it easier for teens to understand how to incorporate them into their own writing. The article is written in an easy-to-understand style, making it accessible to teens of all levels of writing ability. It is a great resource for teens who want to make a good impression on their English teachers and get better grades on their essays.

Definition: (verb) to make or manufacture (an object)) with skill and careful attention to detail.

Replaces: makes/produces/writesI love the word “craft” because it instantly fills your teacher’s mind with imagery that will galvanize her to keep on reading! Instead of asserting that a writer “produces a speech” or “writes a story”, employ this artful word! “The speaker crafts his lecture by including a myriad of allusions to other salient speeches” is a great start to a thesis statement! Varied word choice is always advantageous in writing, whereas a limited vocabulary can prove to be egregious! While your peers write essays filled with erroneous grammar and improper uses of diction, you’ll be creating a unique essay! Since “craft” alters the tone of your entire essay, you can reason that it will engender a higher score on your paper!

This article provides 21 words to use in essays to impress English teachers. It encourages students to use varied word choice and a wider vocabulary to create unique essays. The article focuses on the word “craft” as an example, explaining how it can alter the tone of an essay. It also suggests that using a wider vocabulary will help students to avoid common grammar and diction mistakes. The article is aimed at teenagers, encouraging them to create essays with a professional tone and to take pride in their work.

Substantiate

Definition: (verb) provide evidence to support or prove the truth of

Replaces: provesThroughout an analysis essay, you probably craft a myriad of phrases employing the word “prove”. After all, every author’s goal is to prove something, right? However, it’s advantageous to include a greater variety of words, in order to engender an essay worthy of an A! You never want to use this word erroneously, though, or else you’ll have an egregious outcome! Your teacher wants to see that the piece you read galvanized you to assert your opinion with a wider vocabulary, but tossing in big words incorrectly won’t help you. Before you use this word, a very salient step is ensuring that you reason through all of your vocabulary options; does the author vindicate, confirm, justify, or actually substantiate the claim? There are so many words out there, make sure you choose the right one!

This article is an excellent resource for teen writers looking to make an impression on their English teacher. It provides a list of 21 words to use in essays that can help boost the writer's vocabulary and impress their teacher. The article also provides helpful tips for using these words correctly to avoid using them incorrectly. It also explains the importance of researching the words and finding the most appropriate one to use in a given context to ensure the essay is well written. Finally, the article encourages readers to look outside the traditional thesaurus for words to use in their essays, as there are many more words available to explore.

Definition: (adjective) able to burn or corrode organic tissue by chemical

Replaces: mean/harshIn order to substantiate that an author’s tone is confrontational, sarcastic, or rude, you should use one precise term: caustic. Like “craft”, “caustic” is a word filled with imagery that is sure to engender advantageous results regarding your grade and your teacher’s opinion of you. While it certainly isn’t egregious to replace “caustic” with a word like “bitter”, “abrasive”, or a myriad of other terms, in my opinion, employing caustic stirs a much stronger emotion in the grader. Upon reading that word, one will reason that the caustic person is dangerous and malicious. Make sure you don’t overuse this word though; you should only use it to accurately describe some salient topics, otherwise it may slip out and erroneously describe something. Ultimately though, asserting your opinions with the help of this word will galvanize your teacher to give you an A!

This article provides 21 words that can be used to help make essays more impressive and memorable. It explains the meaning of each word and provides an example of how to use it in a sentence. The words range from more common words like “caustic” to more obscure words like “egregious”. The article also emphasizes the importance of using the right words to accurately describe a situation. Furthermore, it cautions against overusing words, as this can lead to confusion and misinterpretation. The article is geared towards teens, and can be a helpful tool for students to use to enhance their writing skills.

Definition: (verb) to make clear

Replaces: explainWhile writing essays, there's no doubt that you'll be doing some elucidating. You'll want to ensure that your readers clearly understand your ideas and follow your train of thought. At the same time, you can also plug in elucidate in some of your essays to show off your sophisticated vocab!

Using sophisticated words in essays is a great way to impress your English teacher. Elucidate is a great word to use in this context, as it means to make clear. It can be used to explain complex ideas or arguments in a way that is easy for the reader to understand.

In addition to elucidate, there are many other sophisticated words that can be used in essays. For instance, words like “permeate”, “exemplify”, and “convoluted” can all help to make an essay more interesting and engaging. Furthermore, using words like “postulate” and “speculate” can help to demonstrate that the writer has a good understanding of the subject matter.

In addition to using sophisticated words, it is also important to use the right tone in essays. For instance, using a formal tone is usually more appropriate for academic essays, while a more conversational tone can be more suitable for creative essays.

Finally, it is important to use words that are appropriate for the context. For example, using words like “enormous” or “tremendous” can be more appropriate for a creative essay, while words like

Definition: (adjective): intended for or likely to be understood by only a small number of people with a specialized knowledge or interest.

Replaces: obscureEsoteric is one of those words that you probably don't commonly use so it might not exactly replace an overused word but it perfectly captures something that's not so easy to explain. The next time you're trying to explain something to a school friend or teacher, let 'em know that they clearly don't share your esoteric knowledge on the subject.

Esoteric is a great word to use in your essays to impress your English teacher! It is an adjective that describes something that is only understood by a select few people who have specialized knowledge or interest. It is a great alternative to the overused word “obscure.” Using this word can show your teacher that you have a wide vocabulary and can think outside the box. It is also a great way to make your writing more interesting and to stand out from your peers.

Definition: (adjective) very weak or slight.

Replaces: weak or fragileTenuous is often used to describe the state of a relationship or feelings so don't be surprised if you start using this word to relay your feelings about a new guy in your life or maybe even how you feel about your latest impulse purchase.

Tenuous is a great adjective to use in essays to impress your English teacher. It means very weak or slight, and is often used to describe relationships or feelings. It can be used to describe the strength of a relationship between two people, or the strength of an emotion. Tenuous can also be used to describe a situation that is fragile or delicate. It is a great word to use to express subtle nuances in relationships or feelings. Additionally, it can be used to describe a situation that is on the brink of collapse or disaster.

Perfunctory

Definition: (adjective) (of an action or gesture) carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection.

Replaces: hasty, carelessI personally love this word because it's a grown-up way to say "half-ass." I'm certain you've never written an essay in a perfunctory manner but for those times that you want to express how your classmate did a perfunctory job in contributing to your group project or tell your boyfriend that he gave you a perfunctory kiss and he needs to step it up, it's perfect!

This article provides 21 words that can be used to impress an English teacher in essays. These words are often used in a more sophisticated manner than the typical words used by teenagers. The words listed in this article include words such as "perfunctory," which means carried out with a minimum of effort or reflection. This article is an excellent resource for teens who are looking to improve their writing skills and impress their English teacher. It provides a great list of words that can be used in essays to make them sound more sophisticated and mature.

Definition: (noun) out of the ordinary; irregular; something different from the norm.

Replaces: oddity, abnormalityAnomaly isn't a word you'll probably use very often, but if you can figure out a use for it in your essay, you're sure to impress your teacher. It's a way of saying something is strange or not normal, but has such a class to it so you're not stuck saying, "It's so weird" but instead can say, "That's quite an anomaly."

This article provides 21 words that can be used to impress an English teacher when writing essays. These words are sophisticated and can help to add a level of sophistication to your writing. The words range from uncommon ones like 'anomaly' to more common ones like 'irony'. The article also provides definitions for each word and an example of how it can be used in a sentence. Additionally, the article provides helpful tips on how to use the words in the correct context. This article is particularly helpful for students who are looking to get better grades on their essays.

Definition: (noun) piece or component of something larger; aspect of something bigger.

Replaces: face, side, planeThis one is another good word to use, though not sure how you'd configure it into your essay depending on the subject. You could describe someone's personality as "multi-faceted" if you're trying to describe their uniqueness, or if you're trying to kindly imply they're two-faced. The decision is yours how it's used but it's definitely a word to add to your vocab to sound more intelligent.

This article is designed to help teens improve their writing skills and vocabulary by introducing 21 words that can be used to make their essays more impressive. These words are chosen to help teens express themselves more effectively and to make their writing sound more sophisticated. The words are all selected from different categories such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs. With these words, teens can add more depth to their writing and make their essays more interesting. Additionally, examples are provided to demonstrate how the words can be used in a sentence.

Definition: (noun) an abundance; wide variety; excess.

Replaces: A lot, tons, a bunchPlethora is a great word to use even if everyday life! If you're trying to say there is a lot of something, you can say you have a plethora, and you'll sound super smart. Throwing that word into a paper, correctly used of course, is bound to impress your teacher because it's basic yet shows you can use larger words.

The article also includes other words such as "dubious," "lucid," "sagacity," "ostensible," "precipitate," "ameliorate," "venerate," "ameliorate," "perfidy," "obstreperous," "approbation," "laconic," "prolific," "acquiesce," "torpid," "abate," "expedite," "mollify," and "dubious." These words are all useful for improving your writing and making it more sophisticated. Each word has a definition and an example of how to use it correctly in a sentence. The article also provides tips on how to use these words effectively in your essays, such as making sure you understand the definition and context of the word before using it. This is a great resource for students looking to make their writing stand out.

Definition: (adjective) omnipresent; widespread; everywhere at once.

Replaces: all over, everywhere, worldwideThis is a great word to use when you're trying to describe something everywhere. A world-wide flu outbreak is something you could say is ubiquitous. It's a big word to have on hand in your vocabulary and you're bound to sound smarter just by using it.

There you have it! Great scholarly words that are sure to blow away your English teacher! I hope that after adding these words to your vocabulary, your writing will improve, but I know there are plenty of fabulous words I didn’t mention! What are some of your favorite words to use in your essays?

This article was written in collaboration with editor Sabrina Yates and Lisa Washington

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

#10 where da example

This article is really helpful.. Thanks a lot!

Are they all American?

Writing down

Yay! Now I'll have good essays lol

#16 examples??

Thank you very much for this awesome vocab, please tell me if I can employ "I reason so" instead of "I think so"? please reply!

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50 Words To Impress Your English Examiner

When preparing to write an English exam , there are a number of things you should do. We always recommend practising comprehension exercises, familiarising yourself with parts of speech, and levelling up in your creative writing abilities. If you want to impress your English examiner and get more creative with your writing, here is one very simple and practical step you can take: include new and interesting words into your vocabulary. Not only will you stand out from the crowd, but you will improve your ability to write captivating content, and this is a skill you can use beyond your exams. 

Not sure where to begin? Take a look at this list of 50 words that will be sure to impress your English examiner. In this list, we will explain the meaning of each word and show you how to use it in an example sentence. This list will include words you might already know and a few words you haven’t heard before. Use this as an exercise to expand your vocabulary and find new ways to use these words in your own writing. 

Abhor (verb)

Meaning: to hate or detest. 

Example sentence: After being hit in the head one too many times while playing cricket, John began to abhor the sport.

Acquiesce (verb)

Meaning: to agree without protesting. 

Example sentence: Even though Aubrey was enjoying his evening outside, when his wife asked him to come in for dinner, he acquiesced to her request. 

Amiable (adjective)

Meaning: friendly.

Example sentence: Neil was an amiable fellow who got along with pretty much everybody. 

Appease (verb)

Meaning: to calm or satisfy. 

Example sentence: When Theo cries, his mothers gives him a dummy to appease him. 

Avarice (noun)

Meaning: excessive greed. 

Example sentence: Tom’s avarice led him to amass an enormous personal fortune. 

Brazen (adjective)

Meaning: excessively bold, brash, clear and obvious.

Example sentence: The readers noticed Chris’s brazen attempt to plagiarise another author’s work.

Brusque (adjective)

Meaning: short, abrupt, dismissive.

Example sentence: Nicola’s brusque manner sometimes causes offence with her work colleagues. 

Callous (adjective)

Meaning: harsh, cold, unfeeling.

Example sentence: Jeff’s callous lack of remorse was a shock to the jury.

Candour (noun)

Meaning: honesty or frankness. 

Example sentence: Liz is usually quite evasive, so we were surprised by her candour . 

Circumspect (adjective)

Meaning: cautious.

Example sentence: I told Jane’s father I would bring her home promptly at midnight, but it would have been more circumspect not to have specified a time. 

Clandestine (adjective)

Meaning: secret.

Example sentence: Maria and Markus had arranged to meet in the library for a clandestine liaison. 

Coerce (verb)

Meaning: to make somebody do something by force or threat. 

Example sentence: The judge decided that Anna did not have to honour the contract because she had been coerced into signing it. 

Complacency (noun)

Meaning: self-satisfied ignorance of danger.

Example sentence: Shelly attempted to shock her friends out of their complacency by displaying a frightening picture of what may happen to them. 

Confidant (noun)

Meaning: a person entrusted with secrets. 

Example sentence: Not long after we met, he became my primary confidant.  

Connive (verb)

Meaning: to plot or scheme. 

Example sentence: Simona connived to get me to give up my plans to launch my new business.

Cumulative (adjective)

Meaning: increasing or building upon itself. 

Example sentence: The cumulative effect of multiple tutor sessions resulted in a vast improvement on Joel’s exam results. 

Deferential (adjective)

Meaning: showing respect for another’s authority. 

Example sentence: Glen is always extremely deferential to any type of authority figure. 

Demure (adjective)

Meaning: quiet, modest, reserved. 

Example sentence: Even though everybody else at the party was going crazy and having a good time, Evan remained demure . 

Deride (verb)

Meaning: to laugh at mockingly, scorn.

Example sentence: The Spanish teacher often derided the other teacher’s accent. 

Diligent (adjective)

Meaning: showing care in doing one’s work. 

Example sentence: Lauren was diligent in her research and made sure to double check all her measurements. 

Elated (adjective)

Meaning: overjoyed, thrilled. 

Example sentence: When she found out she had won the lottery, Joy was elated .

Embezzle (verb)

Meaning: to steal money by falsifying records. 

Example sentence: William was fired after embezzling money from the company’s funds. 

Empathy (noun)

Meaning: sensitivity to another’s feelings as if they were one’s own. 

Example sentence: I feel such empathy for my friend who’s grieving the loss of her father. 

Enmity (noun)

Meaning: ill will, hatred, hostility. 

Example sentence: It’s clear that Rory and Bruce have not forgiven each other, because the enmity between them is obvious. 

Fabricate (verb)

Meaning: to make up, to invent. 

Example sentence: After arriving late to class, I fabricated an excuse about my car breaking down on my journey. 

Feral (adjective)

Meaning: wild, savage. 

Example sentence: I wouldn’t want to be alone with that beast because it looks so feral . 

Gluttony (noun)

Meaning: overindulgence in food or drink. 

Example sentence: Simpson’s Chicken is so delicious that I can’t help but embrace gluttony while I eat it. 

Gratuitous (adjective)

Meaning: uncalled for, unwarranted. 

Example sentence: There were far too many gratuitous personal insults thrown about in the debate. 

Haughty (adjective)

Meaning: disdainfully proud. 

Example sentence: Angela’s haughty dismissal of her co-workers will backfire on her someday. 

Impeccable (adjective)

Meaning: exemplary, flawless.

Example sentence: Cathi’s ability to reorganise and tidy her room is impeccable . 

Inept (adjective)

Meaning: not suitable or capable, unqualified.

Example sentence: Maggy proved how inept she was when she dropped an entire plate of food in a customer’s lap. 

Jubilant (adjective) 

Meaning: extremely joyful, happy. 

Example sentence: The audience was jubilant when Ed Sheeran walked out onto the stage to perform. 

Lurid (adjective)

Meaning: ghastly, sensational. 

Example sentence: Jess’s story was judged too lurid to be published on the website because she went into great detail about the character torturing his victims. 

Maverick (noun)

Meaning: an independent, nonconformist person. 

Example sentence: Mark is a real maverick and always does things his own way. 

Meticulous (adjective)

Meaning: extremely careful with details. 

Example sentence: The ornate beading on Nicole’s wedding dress was a product of meticulous handiwork. 

Myriad (adjective)

Meaning: consisting of a very great number. 

Example sentence: I find it hard to decide what to do on a Saturday night because London has a myriad of possibilities. 

Novice (noun)

Meaning: a beginner, someone without training or experience. 

Example sentence: Garth was a novice at kettlebell workouts so he began with the basics. 

Nuance (noun)

Meaning: a slight variation in meaning, tone, expression. 

Example sentence: The poem had many nuances which weren’t obvious to the casual reader, but the teacher could quickly point them out. 

Oblivious (adjective)

Meaning: lacking consciousness or awareness of something. 

Example sentence: Phil was oblivious to the burning smell coming from the kitchen and he didn’t notice the rolls in the oven were burning. 

Penchant (noun)

Meaning: a tendency, partiality, preference.

Example sentence: Dale’s family became fed up with her penchant for bringing stray dogs home. 

Perusal (noun)

Meaning: a careful examination, review.

Example sentence: Matthew agreed to accept the role after a three-month perusal of the movie script. 

Quaint (adjective)

Meaning: charmingly old-fashioned.

Example sentence: Elizabeth was delighted by the quaint tea house in Dorset. 

Rash (adjective)

Meaning: hasty, incautious. 

Example sentence: You better think things over calmly and thoroughly instead of making rash decisions.

Salient (adjective)

Meaning: significant, conspicuous. 

Example sentence: One of the salient differences between Monica and Rebecca is that Rebecca is much taller. 

Superfluous (adjective)

Meaning: exceeding what is necessary. 

Example sentence: Janice had already won the campaign so her constant flattery of others was superfluous . 

Truculent (adjective)

Meaning: ready to fight, cruel. 

Example sentence: The club doesn’t really attract the dangerous types, so why was the bouncer being so truculent ?

Umbrage (noun)

Meaning: resentment, offence. 

Example sentence: Rachel called me a coward and I took umbrage to the insult. 

Venerable (adjective)

Meaning: deserving of respect because of age or achievement. 

Example sentence: The venerable judge made several key rulings in landmark cases throughout the years. 

Wanton (adjective)

Meaning: undisciplined, lewd, lustful. 

Example sentence: Johanna’s wanton demeanour often made the frat guys next door very excited. 

Zenith (noun)

Meaning: the highest point, culminating point. 

Example sentence: I was too polite to tell Phoebe that she had reached the absolute zenith of her career with that one hit song of hers. 

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How to Impress Teachers With Your Essay

Last Updated: February 27, 2018

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 15 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 47,464 times.

Ever wonder what it takes to get the A? Course you have.

Essay Template and Sample Essays

Impressing Teachers with Your Own Essay

• If you talk about something briefly at the very beginning of your intro, refer back to it quickly in your conclusion. It'll remind your teacher you know how to write an essay and you know what you're doing.

Community Q&A

• Never repeat yourself. Never repeat yourself. Never repeat yourself. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Be funny. It doesn't have to be laugh-out-loud humor (it can be though), but just say a little something here and there to make the teacher slightly smile when reading. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 1
• Be creative. Creativity is your best friend, your best weapon, and your best gift. Express your creativity in your essay, and it'll rub off on your teacher. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 1
• Don't overdo the humor or emotion. Too little and it's not effective. Too much and the teacher sees right through your pitiful attempt at writing a good essay. Like a spoonful of sugar, it takes just the right dose to work. Thanks Helpful 3 Not Helpful 0
• Don't include the teacher in your essay. Know who you're addressing, but don't say "And in conclusion, that's why you're reading this essay now and why if I don't say anything in this sentence, you won't give me an A." Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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• Posted in in Writing

30 Advanced Essay Words to Improve Your Grades

• Posted by by Learn English Every Day
• September 13, 2023

In this guide, you’ll find 30 advanced essay words to use in academic writing. Advanced English words are great for making academic writing more impressive and persuasive, which has the potential to wow teachers and professors, and even improve your grades.

30 Advanced Essay Words

• Definition: Present, appearing, or found everywhere.
• Example: The smartphone has become ubiquitous in modern society.
• Replaces: Common, widespread, prevalent.
• Definition: Fluent or persuasive in speaking or writing.
• Example: Her eloquent speech captivated the audience.
• Replaces: Well-spoken, articulate.
• Definition: To make less severe, serious, or painful.
• Example: Planting more trees can help mitigate the effects of climate change.
• Replaces: Alleviate, lessen, reduce.
• Definition: In contrast or opposite to what was previously mentioned.
• Example: Some believe in climate change; conversely, others deny its existence.
• Replaces: On the other hand, in opposition.
• Definition: Stated or appearing to be true, but not necessarily so.
• Example: His ostensible reason for the delay was a traffic jam.
• Replaces: Apparent, seeming, supposed.
• Definition: A countless or extremely great number.
• Example: The internet offers a myriad of resources for research.
• Replaces: Countless, numerous.
• Definition: Exceeding what is necessary or required.
• Example: His lengthy introduction was filled with superfluous details.
• Replaces: Excessive, redundant.
• Definition: To cause something to happen suddenly or unexpectedly.
• Example: The economic crisis precipitated widespread unemployment.
• Replaces: Trigger, prompt.
• Definition: Too great or extreme to be expressed or described in words.
• Example: The beauty of the sunset over the ocean was ineffable.
• Replaces: Indescribable, inexpressible.
• Definition: Having knowledge or awareness of something.
• Example: She was cognizant of the risks involved in the project.
• Replaces: Aware, conscious.
• Definition: Relevant or applicable to a particular matter.
• Example: Please provide only pertinent information in your report.
• Replaces: Relevant, related.
• Definition: Showing great attention to detail; very careful and precise.
• Example: The researcher conducted a meticulous analysis of the data.
• Replaces: Thorough, careful.
• Definition: Capable of producing the desired result or effect.
• Example: The medication has proved to be efficacious in treating the disease.
• Replaces: Effective, successful.
• Definition: Mentioned earlier in the text or conversation.
• Example: The aforementioned study provides valuable insights.
• Replaces: Previously mentioned, previously discussed.
• Definition: To make a problem, situation, or condition worse.
• Example: His criticism only served to exacerbate the conflict.
• Replaces: Worsen, intensify.
• Definition: The state or capacity of being everywhere, especially at the same time.
• Example: The ubiquity of social media has changed how we communicate.
• Replaces: Omnipresence, pervasiveness.
• Definition: In every case or on every occasion; always.
• Example: The professor’s lectures are invariably informative.
• Replaces: Always, consistently.
• Definition: To be a perfect example or representation of something.
• Example: The city’s skyline epitomizes modern architecture.
• Replaces: Symbolize, represent.
• Definition: A harsh, discordant mixture of sounds.
• Example: The cacophony of car horns during rush hour was deafening.
• Replaces: Discord, noise.
• Definition: A person who acts obsequiously toward someone important to gain advantage.
• Example: He surrounded himself with sycophants who praised his every move.
• Replaces: Flatterer, yes-man.
• Definition: To render unclear, obscure, or unintelligible.
• Example: The politician attempted to obfuscate the details of the scandal.
• Replaces: Confuse, obscure.
• Definition: Having or showing keen mental discernment and good judgment.
• Example: Her sagacious advice guided the team to success.
• Replaces: Wise, insightful.
• Definition: Not or no longer needed or useful; superfluous.
• Example: His repeated explanations were redundant and added no value.
• Replaces: Unnecessary, surplus.
• Definition: Unwilling or refusing to change one’s views or to agree about something.
• Example: The intransigent negotiators couldn’t reach a compromise.
• Replaces: Unyielding, stubborn.
• Definition: Characterized by vulgar or pretentious display; designed to impress or attract notice.
• Example: The mansion’s ostentatious decorations were overwhelming.
• Replaces: Showy, extravagant.
• Definition: A tendency to choose or do something regularly; an inclination or predisposition.
• Example: She had a proclivity for taking risks in her business ventures.
• Replaces: Tendency, inclination.
• Definition: Difficult to interpret or understand; mysterious.
• Example: The artist’s enigmatic paintings left viewers puzzled.
• Replaces: Mysterious, cryptic.
• Definition: Having a harmful effect, especially in a gradual or subtle way.
• Example: The pernicious influence of gossip can damage reputations.
• Replaces: Harmful, destructive.
• Definition: Shining with great brightness.
• Example: The bride looked resplendent in her wedding gown.
• Replaces: Radiant, splendid.
• Definition: Optimistic, especially in a difficult or challenging situation.
• Example: Despite the setbacks, he remained sanguine.
• Replaces: Optimistic, hopeful.

Using these advanced words in your essays can elevate your writing, making it more precise, engaging, and impactful.

As you work on your essays, consider the nuanced meanings and applications of these advanced words, and use them judiciously to enhance the quality of your academic writing.

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100 Words and Phrases to use in an Essay

Thomas Babb

Writing a compelling essay involves much more than simply putting your thoughts on paper. It demands the use of a precise vocabulary that not only enriches your content but also structures it in a way that is both logical and engaging. The right words and phrases can transform your essay from a basic assignment to an insightful and persuasive piece of writing.

This guide introduces you to 100 essential words and phrases recommended by expert English tutors that will help you convey your ideas more effectively. From adding information to expressing contrasts, and from illustrating examples to summarising your points, these carefully selected terms will enhance the clarity and impact of your essays.

Adding Information

When crafting an essay, integrating additional details effectively can enrich the written content and present a well-rounded argument. Here's how you can use each phrase under this category:

1. Furthermore - Use this to add weight to a point already mentioned, providing further evidence without redundancy.

2. Moreover - Similar to "furthermore," it introduces information that not only adds to the argument but enhances it.

3. Similarly - This indicates that the upcoming point shares notable characteristics with the previous one, aiding in drawing parallels.

4. Additionally - Introduces extra information or arguments that augment the current discussion.

5. Also - A simpler form of "additionally" that integrates extra facts smoothly.

6. Likewise - Indicates similarity and supports points by showing how they relate to each other in terms of qualities or actions.

7. In addition - This phrase is useful for contributing additional supportive details in a clear manner.

8. As well as - Functions to include another subject or item into your discussion without diverging from the main topic.

9. Not only... but also - A powerful structure for emphasizing not just one, but two important points, enhancing the depth of the argument.

10. Alongside - Implies that the information being added runs parallel to the already established facts, reinforcing them.

These phrases, when used correctly, help to build a strong, cohesive narrative flow in your essays, guiding the reader through a logical progression of ideas. For more on enhancing your writing with effective information addition, explore resources like Oxford Royale's Essay Writing Tips .

Introducing Examples

Introducing concrete examples is crucial in illustrating and supporting your claims effectively in an essay. Here’s how to use each word or phrase linked to this category:

11. For instance - Introduces a specific example that illuminates a broader point, helping to clarify complex ideas.

12. For example - Functions similarly to "for instance," offering a direct illustration to support or demonstrate a claim.

13. Such as - Prepares the reader for an example that is part of a larger category, typically used to list items or concepts.

14. Like - Introduces comparisons or examples in a casual and relatable manner.

15. Particularly - Highlights an example that is especially relevant to the argument, focusing attention on significant details.

16. In particular - Similar to "particularly," but often used to introduce a standout example that underscores a critical point.

17. Including - Serves to add examples to a list that may already be understood to be part of the topic being discussed.

18. Namely - Specifies and introduces exact and often multiple examples or details directly related to the point.

19. Chiefly - Points to the most important or significant examples or reasons in support of an argument.

20. Mainly - Indicates that the examples provided are the primary ones to consider, focusing on the most relevant instances.

Effective use of these phrases not only clarifies your points but also strengthens your arguments by making abstract concepts tangible. For detailed guidance on how to incorporate examples effectively in your essays, refer to academic resources like Harvard College Writing Center .

Demonstrating Contrast

IB English tutors suggest that Using contrast effectively in your essays can highlight differences that clarify your points or show alternative perspectives. Here’s how to use each phrase to demonstrate contrast:

21. Conversely - Signals a stark contrast to what has just been discussed, often introducing an opposing viewpoint.

22. However - A versatile tool to introduce a contradiction or counterpoint, breaking from the previous line of reasoning.

23. Nevertheless - Indicates persistence of a stated fact or opinion despite the contrasting information that follows.

24. On the other hand - Used to present a different perspective or an alternative to the argument previously mentioned.

25. Although - Begins a sentence where the main clause contrasts with the lesser significant, conditional clause.

26. Even though - Similar to "although," but often emphasizes a stronger degree of contrast between the conflicting elements.

27. But - A simple and direct way to introduce a contradiction to the preceding statement.

28. Yet - Suggests a contrast that is surprising or unexpected based on the previous statements.

29. Instead - Introduces an alternative action or thought in response to what has been previously discussed.

30. Rather - Used to correct or propose a different idea from what was initially stated or understood.

These phrases are essential for essays where comparing and contrasting ideas, arguments, or perspectives is necessary to deepen understanding or enhance the argument’s complexity. To learn more about using contrast in writing, visit educational resources such as Purdue Online Writing Lab .

Showing Cause and Effect

A-Level English tutors point out that effectively indicating cause and effect relationships in your essays helps clarify the reasons things happen and the consequences that follow. Here’s how to use each word or phrase to illustrate these relationships:

31. Consequently - Signals a direct result from the action or situation mentioned, highlighting the effect or outcome.

32. Therefore - Used to introduce a logical conclusion or result that follows from the reasoning presented earlier.

33. Thus - Indicates a conclusion or result that is a natural consequence of the facts previously mentioned.

34. Hence - Similar to "thus," it conveys a consequence that is a logical extension from the argument or data presented.

35. Accordingly - Shows that an action or decision is a logical response to the circumstances or facts discussed.

36. As a result - Directly points out the outcome or effect resulting from a specific cause or set of conditions.

37. This leads to - Introduces a sequence where one event or fact causes another, often used to chain multiple effects.

38. It follows that - Used when deducing a conclusion that logically arises from the preceding argument or evidence.

39. Leading to - Connects an initial action or decision directly with its consequences, highlighting a progression of events.

40. Contributing to - Indicates that the action or event adds to a situation, leading to a particular result or effect.

Mastering the use of these phrases can enhance the persuasive power of your writing by clearly linking actions and their consequences.

Adding Emphasis

Effectively emphasising key points in your essays can make your arguments more compelling and memorable. Here’s how to appropriately use each word or phrase to add emphasis:

41. Significantly - Indicates that something is of great importance or consequence, drawing the reader's attention to the gravity of the point being made.

42. Importantly - Prioritises the following information as crucial for understanding the argument or situation.

43. Indeed - Reinforces the truth of a statement, often used to confirm and agree with a previously mentioned point that might be surprising or emphatic.

44. Absolutely - A strong affirmation that leaves no doubt about the veracity or importance of the statement.

45. Definitely - Communicates certainty about a fact or opinion, strengthening the author's stance.

46. Certainly - Similar to "definitely," it expresses a high degree of assurance about the information being provided.

47. Undoubtedly - Suggests that there is no doubt about the statement, reinforcing its truth and relevance.

48. Without a doubt - A more emphatic form of "undoubtedly," eliminating any ambiguity about the point’s validity.

49. Particularly - Highlights specific information as especially significant within a broader context.

50. Especially - Used to indicate that something holds more significance than other elements, often emphasizing exceptional cases or instances.

Using these expressions strategically can enhance the persuasive impact of your writing by underscoring the most critical elements of your argument. To see more words and further explore techniques for adding emphasis in academic writing, visit resources like Cambridge Dictionary Blog .

Explaining and Clarifying

In academic essays, clearly explaining and clarifying complex ideas is essential for effective communication. IGCSE tutors and GCSE tutors suggest that each of these phrases can be used to enhance understanding:

51. That is to say - Used to introduce a rephrasing or elaboration on something that has just been stated.

52. In other words - Helps clarify a statement by expressing it in different terms for better understanding.

53. To put it another way - Similar to "in other words," it offers an alternative explanation or perspective to ensure clarity.

54. To clarify - Directly states the intent to make something clearer or to resolve any misunderstandings.

55. To explain - Introduces a detailed explanation aimed at enhancing understanding of a complex issue or point.

56. This means that - Connects a statement or idea to its implications or necessary interpretations.

57. This implies - Suggests a deeper, often unspoken consequence or meaning behind the given information.

58. Put simply - Introduces a simpler or more straightforward version of what has been discussed, making it more accessible.

59. In simpler terms - Another phrase to ease comprehension by breaking down complex concepts into basic language.

60. Thus - Concludes an explanation by summarizing the logical result or conclusion derived from the argument made.

Using these phrases effectively can help articulate intricate arguments in a more digestible format, aiding the reader’s understanding and engagement.

Summarising and Concluding

Expert IB tutors and A-Level tutors recommend that effectively summarising and concluding your essays is crucial for reinforcing your main points and providing a satisfying closure to any persuasive essay. Here’s how to use each word or phrase to effectively wrap up your discussions:

61. In conclusion - Signals the beginning of the final summary, clearly stating that the argument is drawing to a close.

62. To sum up - Introduces a concise summary of the key points discussed, often used before the final conclusion.

63. Ultimately - Indicates a final, overarching conclusion derived from the arguments and evidence presented.

64. Finally - Marks the introduction of the last point or an additional important point that concludes the discussion.

65. Lastly - Similar to "finally," it is used to introduce the final argument or point in the list.

66. To conclude - Directly states the intent to wrap up the essay, leading into a summary of the main findings.

67. In summary - Offers a recap of the essential elements discussed, reinforcing the thesis without introducing new information.

68. All things considered - Provides an overall conclusion, taking into account all the points made throughout the essay.

69. In the final analysis - Suggests a thorough consideration of all aspects discussed, leading to a concluding viewpoint.

70. After all - Implies that the conclusion takes into account all arguments and evidences previously presented.

Mastering the use of these concluding phrases ensures that your essay ends on a strong note, summarising key points and reinforcing your argument.

Discussing Similarities

Highlighting similarities effectively can enhance your argument by showing connections and parallels between ideas or topics. Here’s how to use each phrase to discuss similarities in your essays:

71. Similarly - Indicates that what follows is in alignment with the previous statement, reinforcing the connection between two points.

72. Likewise - Also used to show agreement or similarity, it confirms that the upcoming point supports the previous one in terms of characteristics or outcomes.

73. Just as - Introduces a comparison, suggesting that the situation or argument is equivalent to another.

74. As with - Used before mentioning another example, indicating that it shares properties or conditions with what has been discussed.

75. Equally - Implies that two or more elements are on the same level in terms of importance, quality, or characteristics.

76. Analogous to - Introduces a more formal comparison, indicating that one situation is comparable to another, often used in more scientific or technical discussions.

77. Comparable to - Suggests that two things can be likened to each other, providing a basis for comparison.

78. In the same way - Confirms that the action, process, or idea mirrors another, reinforcing the similarity.

79. Just like - A more casual phrase used to draw a direct comparison, making the similarity clear and understandable.

80. Similarly important - Asserts that the importance or relevance of two or more aspects is equal, emphasising their comparative significance.

Utilising these phrases allows you to effectively link concepts and arguments, showing how they complement or mirror each other, which can strengthen your overall thesis. For further reading on comparing and contrasting ideas effectively, the University of North Carolina Writing Center offers excellent resources.

Providing Alternatives

Offering alternatives in your essays can demonstrate critical thinking by showing different possibilities or approaches. Here’s how to use each word or phrase to introduce alternative ideas:

81. Alternatively - Introduces a different option or suggestion, providing another route or perspective.

82. On the contrary - Used to present a direct opposition to the previously mentioned idea, emphasising a contrasting point.

83. Rather - Suggests a preference for one choice over another, typically used to propose a different approach or opinion.

84. Conversely - Indicates a reversal of what has been previously stated, introducing an opposing viewpoint.

85. Instead - Specifies a substitute or replacement, clearly stating that one option is to be considered in place of another.

86. On the flip side - Introduces a contrasting scenario or viewpoint in a more informal manner, often used in conversational or less formal writing.

87. Rather than - Presents a comparison between two choices, highlighting a preference for one over the other.

88. As an alternative - Explicitly states the introduction of a different option or method, providing variety to the discussion.

89. Either...or - Sets up a choice between two distinct options, forcing a decision that impacts the argument’s direction.

90. Neither...nor - Used to deny two possibilities simultaneously, often restructuring the argument by excluding common options.

Incorporating these phrases allows you to explore and present multiple facets of an issue, enriching the essay’s depth and persuasiveness. For tips on effectively presenting alternative arguments, visit Harvard College Writing Center .

Expressing Conditions

Effectively expressing conditions in your essays can help outline scenarios where certain outcomes or arguments hold true. Here’s how to use each word or phrase to specify conditions:

91. If - Introduces a conditional statement, setting up a scenario where a specific result depends on a preceding condition.

92. Unless - Specifies an exception to a general rule or statement, indicating that a condition will change the outcome if not met.

93. Provided that - Sets a stipulation or requirement for a scenario to occur, emphasizing that certain conditions must be satisfied.

94. Assuming that - Suggests a hypothesis or a precondition that needs to be accepted before proceeding with an argument or conclusion.

95. In case - Prepares for a situation that might occur, setting up precautions or actions based on potential scenarios.

96. Even if - Acknowledges that even under certain circumstances, the primary argument or conclusion still holds.

97. Only if - Restricts the conditions under which a statement or outcome is valid, narrowing down the scenarios to very specific ones.

98. Whether - Presents alternatives, usually offering a choice between possibilities within the condition stated.

99. As long as - Indicates that a condition is contingent upon the duration or continuation of a specified situation.

100. Given that - Introduces a premise as a fact, assuming its truth for the sake of argument or to advance the discussion.

Final Thoughts

In crafting compelling essays, the strategic use of specific words and phrases can significantly enhance both the clarity and persuasiveness of your writing. By mastering the use of these 100 essential terms, students can effectively structure their essays, convey complex ideas, and articulate contrasts and comparisons with precision. Each category of phrases serves a unique purpose, from adding information to providing alternatives, which empowers writers to construct well-rounded arguments and engage their readers more deeply.

As you continue to refine your essay-writing skills, remember that the power of your arguments often lies in the details—the precise words and phrases you choose to express your thoughts. The power of a well crafted essay introduction and precise essay conclusion should also not be overlooked. By integrating these tools into your writing repertoire, you are better equipped to present clear, persuasive, and engaging essays that stand out in academic settings.

How can I improve my essay planning process?

Effective essay planning begins with a clear understanding of the essay question. Break down the question to identify key terms and the required response. Create an outline to organise your main points and supporting arguments logically. Consider using a mind map to visually plot connections between ideas, which can spur creative thinking. Allocate time for research, writing, and revision within your plan. Practising essay plans for different questions can enhance your ability to organise thoughts quickly and efficiently, a crucial skill especially under exam conditions.

What makes an essay introduction effective?

An effective introduction grabs the reader's attention, sets the tone, and provides a clear thesis statement. Start with a hook such as a provocative question, a startling statistic, or a compelling quote. Provide some background information to set the context, ensuring it's directly relevant to the essay's question. The thesis statement should be concise and outline your main argument or response to the question. This setup not only intrigues but also informs the reader about the essay's focus, establishing your understanding and control of the subject.

How do I choose the best evidence for my essay?

The best evidence is relevant, credible, and supports your thesis directly. Use primary sources where possible as they provide first-hand accounts that you can analyse directly. When primary sources are not available, rely on peer-reviewed journals and reputable publications. Diversify your sources to avoid over-reliance on a single type of evidence, and critically evaluate sources for bias and reliability. Properly integrating this evidence into your argument involves summarising, paraphrasing, and quoting sources while always linking back to your main argument.

How can I make my essay arguments more persuasive?

To make your arguments more persuasive, begin with a clear, assertive thesis statement. Structure your essay so each paragraph introduces a single point supporting your thesis. Use credible evidence and explain how this supports your argument. Address potential counterarguments to show the depth of your understanding and strengthen your position by demonstrating why your approach is preferable. Employing a confident but respectful tone and precise language also enhances the persuasiveness of your essay.

What are common pitfalls in essay writing to avoid?

Common pitfalls in essay writing include poor structure, weak thesis statements, and lack of coherence. Avoiding these starts with a robust plan and clear outline. Stay on topic by linking each paragraph back to your thesis statement. Avoid plagiarism by properly citing all sources. Overly complex sentence structures can confuse readers, so strive for clarity and conciseness. Finally, neglecting proofreading can leave typographical and grammatical errors, which diminish the quality of your work, so always review your essay thoroughly.

How do I manage time when writing an essay under exam conditions?

Time management in exams is crucial. Allocate about 10% of your time for planning, 80% for writing, and 10% for revising. Quickly outline your main points to structure your essay from the start. Write your body paragraphs first, as these contain the bulk of marks, then your introduction and conclusion. Keep an eye on the clock and pace yourself to ensure you have enough time to adequately develop your arguments and conclude effectively.

What are the best practices for editing and proofreading essays?

After writing your essay, take a break before you start editing to give you a fresh perspective. Read your essay aloud to catch awkward phrasing and sentences that don't flow logically. Check for consistency in tense and point of view throughout the essay. Use spell-check tools, but do not rely on them solely—manually check for homophones and commonly confused words. Consider having someone else read your work to catch errors you might have overlooked and to provide feedback on the clarity of your arguments.

How can I develop a strong thesis statement?

A strong thesis statement is clear, concise, and specific. It should express one main idea that is debatable, meaning there is potential for argument. Reflect on the essay prompt and decide on your position regarding the topic. Your thesis should guide the reader through your arguments and indicate the rationale behind your viewpoint. It serves as the backbone of your essay, so ensure it is robust and directly linked to the question asked.

How do I handle counterarguments in my essays?

Handling counterarguments effectively involves acknowledging them and then refuting them with stronger evidence or reasoning. Present them fairly and objectively, then use logical, fact-based arguments to demonstrate why your position remains valid. This not only shows critical thinking but also strengthens your original argument by showing you have considered multiple perspectives.

What is the role of a conclusion in an essay?

The conclusion of an essay should effectively summarise the main arguments discussed while reaffirming the thesis statement. It should synthesise the information presented rather than introducing new ideas. Provide a final perspective on the topic or suggest implications, further research or practical applications to leave the reader with something to ponder. A strong conclusion can reinforce your argument and leave a lasting impression on the reader.

How can I ensure my essay flows logically?

To ensure logical flow, each paragraph should seamlessly connect to the next with clear transitions. Focus on structuring paragraphs around one main idea that supports your thesis. Use transitional words and phrases to show the relationship between paragraphs. Consistency in your argumentation style and maintaining a clear focus throughout the essay will help keep your writing coherent.

What techniques help maintain reader interest throughout an essay?

To maintain reader interest, start with a strong hook in your introduction and use engaging content like relevant anecdotes, striking statistics, or interesting quotes throughout your essay. Vary your sentence structure and use active voice to keep the narrative dynamic. Also, ensure your topic is relevant and your arguments are presented with passion and clarity.

How can I integrate quotes effectively in essays?

To integrate quotes effectively, introduce the quote with a sentence that sets up its relevance to your argument, then follow the quote with analysis or interpretation that ties it back to your main point. Do not rely heavily on quotes to make your points; use them to support your arguments. Ensure that every quote is properly cited according to the required academic style guide.

What are the differences between descriptive and argumentative essays?

Descriptive essays focus on detailing a particular subject to give the reader a clear image or understanding of the topic through vivid language and sensory details. In contrast, argumentative essays aim to persuade the reader of a particular viewpoint or position using evidence and reasoning. The former is more about painting a picture, while the latter is about convincing through argument.

How can I use feedback to improve my essay writing skills?

Feedback is invaluable for improving essay writing skills. Actively seek out feedback from teachers, peers, or tutors and focus particularly on recurring themes in their comments. Reflect on this feedback critically and apply it to your future essays. Regularly revisiting and revising your work based on constructive criticism allows you to develop a more refined and effective writing style over time.

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Words to Use in an Essay: 300 Essay Words

Hannah Yang

Table of Contents

Words to use in the essay introduction, words to use in the body of the essay, words to use in your essay conclusion, how to improve your essay writing vocabulary.

It’s not easy to write an academic essay .

Many students struggle to word their arguments in a logical and concise way.

To make matters worse, academic essays need to adhere to a certain level of formality, so we can’t always use the same word choices in essay writing that we would use in daily life.

If you’re struggling to choose the right words for your essay, don’t worry—you’ve come to the right place!

In this article, we’ve compiled a list of over 300 words and phrases to use in the introduction, body, and conclusion of your essay.

The introduction is one of the hardest parts of an essay to write.

You have only one chance to make a first impression, and you want to hook your reader. If the introduction isn’t effective, the reader might not even bother to read the rest of the essay.

That’s why it’s important to be thoughtful and deliberate with the words you choose at the beginning of your essay.

Many students use a quote in the introductory paragraph to establish credibility and set the tone for the rest of the essay.

When you’re referencing another author or speaker, try using some of these phrases:

To use the words of X

According to X

As X states

Example: To use the words of Hillary Clinton, “You cannot have maternal health without reproductive health.”

Near the end of the introduction, you should state the thesis to explain the central point of your paper.

If you’re not sure how to introduce your thesis, try using some of these phrases:

In this essay, I will…

The purpose of this essay…

This essay discusses…

In this paper, I put forward the claim that…

There are three main arguments for…

Example: In this essay, I will explain why dress codes in public schools are detrimental to students.

After you’ve stated your thesis, it’s time to start presenting the arguments you’ll use to back up that central idea.

When you’re introducing the first of a series of arguments, you can use the following words:

First and foremost

First of all

To begin with

Example: First , consider the effects that this new social security policy would have on low-income taxpayers.

All these words and phrases will help you create a more successful introduction and convince your audience to read on.

The body of your essay is where you’ll explain your core arguments and present your evidence.

It’s important to choose words and phrases for the body of your essay that will help the reader understand your position and convince them you’ve done your research.

Let’s look at some different types of words and phrases that you can use in the body of your essay, as well as some examples of what these words look like in a sentence.

Transition Words and Phrases

Transitioning from one argument to another is crucial for a good essay.

It’s important to guide your reader from one idea to the next so they don’t get lost or feel like you’re jumping around at random.

Transition phrases and linking words show your reader you’re about to move from one argument to the next, smoothing out their reading experience. They also make your writing look more professional.

The simplest transition involves moving from one idea to a separate one that supports the same overall argument. Try using these phrases when you want to introduce a second correlating idea:

Additionally

In addition

Furthermore

Another key thing to remember

In the same way

Correspondingly

Example: Additionally , public parks increase property value because home buyers prefer houses that are located close to green, open spaces.

Another type of transition involves restating. It’s often useful to restate complex ideas in simpler terms to help the reader digest them. When you’re restating an idea, you can use the following words:

In other words

To put it another way

That is to say

To put it more simply

Example: “The research showed that 53% of students surveyed expressed a mild or strong preference for more on-campus housing. In other words , over half the students wanted more dormitory options.”

Often, you’ll need to provide examples to illustrate your point more clearly for the reader. When you’re about to give an example of something you just said, you can use the following words:

For instance

To give an illustration of

To exemplify

To demonstrate

As evidence

Example: Humans have long tried to exert control over our natural environment. For instance , engineers reversed the Chicago River in 1900, causing it to permanently flow backward.

Sometimes, you’ll need to explain the impact or consequence of something you’ve just said.

When you’re drawing a conclusion from evidence you’ve presented, try using the following words:

As a result

Accordingly

As you can see

This suggests that

It follows that

It can be seen that

For this reason

For all of those reasons

Consequently

Example: “There wasn’t enough government funding to support the rest of the physics experiment. Thus , the team was forced to shut down their experiment in 1996.”

When introducing an idea that bolsters one you’ve already stated, or adds another important aspect to that same argument, you can use the following words:

What’s more

Not only…but also

Not to mention

To say nothing of

Another key point

Example: The volcanic eruption disrupted hundreds of thousands of people. Moreover , it impacted the local flora and fauna as well, causing nearly a hundred species to go extinct.

Often, you'll want to present two sides of the same argument. When you need to compare and contrast ideas, you can use the following words:

On the one hand / on the other hand

Alternatively

In contrast to

On the contrary

By contrast

In comparison

Example: On the one hand , the Black Death was undoubtedly a tragedy because it killed millions of Europeans. On the other hand , it created better living conditions for the peasants who survived.

Finally, when you’re introducing a new angle that contradicts your previous idea, you can use the following phrases:

Having said that

Differing from

In spite of

With this in mind

Provided that

Nevertheless

Nonetheless

Notwithstanding

Example: Shakespearean plays are classic works of literature that have stood the test of time. Having said that , I would argue that Shakespeare isn’t the most accessible form of literature to teach students in the twenty-first century.

Good essays include multiple types of logic. You can use a combination of the transitions above to create a strong, clear structure throughout the body of your essay.

Strong Verbs for Academic Writing

Verbs are especially important for writing clear essays. Often, you can convey a nuanced meaning simply by choosing the right verb.

You should use strong verbs that are precise and dynamic. Whenever possible, you should use an unambiguous verb, rather than a generic verb.

For example, alter and fluctuate are stronger verbs than change , because they give the reader more descriptive detail.

Here are some useful verbs that will help make your essay shine.

Verbs that show change:

Accommodate

Verbs that relate to causing or impacting something:

Verbs that show increase:

Verbs that show decrease:

Deteriorate

Verbs that relate to parts of a whole:

Comprises of

Is composed of

Constitutes

Encompasses

Incorporates

Verbs that show a negative stance:

Misconstrue

Verbs that show a positive stance:

Substantiate

Verbs that relate to drawing conclusions from evidence:

Corroborate

Demonstrate

Verbs that relate to thinking and analysis:

Contemplate

Hypothesize

Investigate

Verbs that relate to showing information in a visual format:

Useful Adjectives and Adverbs for Academic Essays

You should use adjectives and adverbs more sparingly than verbs when writing essays, since they sometimes add unnecessary fluff to sentences.

However, choosing the right adjectives and adverbs can help add detail and sophistication to your essay.

Sometimes you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is useful and should be taken seriously. Here are some adjectives that create positive emphasis:

Significant

Other times, you'll need to use an adjective to show that a finding or argument is harmful or ineffective. Here are some adjectives that create a negative emphasis:

Controversial

Insignificant

Questionable

Unnecessary

Unrealistic

Finally, you might need to use an adverb to lend nuance to a sentence, or to express a specific degree of certainty. Here are some examples of adverbs that are often used in essays:

Comprehensively

Exhaustively

Extensively

Respectively

Surprisingly

Using these words will help you successfully convey the key points you want to express. Once you’ve nailed the body of your essay, it’s time to move on to the conclusion.

The conclusion of your paper is important for synthesizing the arguments you’ve laid out and restating your thesis.

In your concluding paragraph, try using some of these essay words:

In conclusion

To summarize

In a nutshell

Given the above

As described

All things considered

Example: In conclusion , it’s imperative that we take action to address climate change before we lose our coral reefs forever.

In addition to simply summarizing the key points from the body of your essay, you should also add some final takeaways. Give the reader your final opinion and a bit of a food for thought.

To place emphasis on a certain point or a key fact, use these essay words:

Unquestionably

Undoubtedly

Particularly

Importantly

Conclusively

It should be noted

On the whole

Example: Ada Lovelace is unquestionably a powerful role model for young girls around the world, and more of our public school curricula should include her as a historical figure.

These concluding phrases will help you finish writing your essay in a strong, confident way.

There are many useful essay words out there that we didn't include in this article, because they are specific to certain topics.

If you're writing about biology, for example, you will need to use different terminology than if you're writing about literature.

So how do you improve your vocabulary skills?

The vocabulary you use in your academic writing is a toolkit you can build up over time, as long as you take the time to learn new words.

One way to increase your vocabulary is by looking up words you don’t know when you’re reading.

Try reading more books and academic articles in the field you’re writing about and jotting down all the new words you find. You can use these words to bolster your own essays.

You can also consult a dictionary or a thesaurus. When you’re using a word you’re not confident about, researching its meaning and common synonyms can help you make sure it belongs in your essay.

Don't be afraid of using simpler words. Good essay writing boils down to choosing the best word to convey what you need to say, not the fanciest word possible.

Finally, you can use ProWritingAid’s synonym tool or essay checker to find more precise and sophisticated vocabulary. Click on weak words in your essay to find stronger alternatives.

There you have it: our compilation of the best words and phrases to use in your next essay . Good luck!

Good writing = better grades

ProWritingAid will help you improve the style, strength, and clarity of all your assignments.

Hannah Yang is a speculative fiction writer who writes about all things strange and surreal. Her work has appeared in Analog Science Fiction, Apex Magazine, The Dark, and elsewhere, and two of her stories have been finalists for the Locus Award. Her favorite hobbies include watercolor painting, playing guitar, and rock climbing. You can follow her work on hannahyang.com, or subscribe to her newsletter for publication updates.

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About Words – Cambridge Dictionary blog

Commenting on developments in the English language

5 Phrasal verbs to impress your teachers

Many of my students worry about phrasal verbs, and I have written several posts about them, including a basic introduction to the what they are and how they are used and a more recent post on phrasal verbs for everyday actions .

One of the most common complaints is that there are simply so many of them, and that they are difficult to remember, especially when the main verb is a very common one such as take or set . In this post, therefore, I have selected just 5 phrasal verbs. All of them are extremely common, and all of them can be used in a wide variety of contexts. If you learn just these 5, you will be able to use them in your writing and impress your teachers.

The first phrasal verb I would urge you to learn is carry out . This is extremely common in British English, and is just a more formal way of saying ‘do’. We use it particularly when talking about things like work and experiments, or things we have been told to do:

Scientists are carrying out tests on the materials.

We carried out all their instructions.

It is very unusual to separate this phrasal verb, except (as is the general rule) when the object is a pronoun:

I hired them to do some work and paid them when they had carried it out.

My second useful phrasal verb is point out . This has two useful and related meanings – first, to make a person notice something:

As we travelled around the city, our guide pointed out some interesting buildings.

And second, it means to tell someone a fact, especially in order to support your argument:

I pointed out the advantages of the system.

Note that we often use that with this meaning:

He pointed out that the office was closed on Fridays.

Thirdly, I offer set up . This phrasal verb means to start a company or an organization:

She set up a support group for single parents.

The firm was set up by an American entrepreneur.

My fourth useful phrasal verb is sort out , meaning to deal successfully with a problem or a difficult situation or to arrange or organize things that are untidy or not in the correct order:

The heating’s not working, but someone’s coming to sort it out soon.

The papers in his office were in such a mess, they took weeks to sort out.

And finally, the fifth phrasal verb I recommend you learn is put off . This verb has two particularly useful meanings – first, to decide to do something at a later date:

I need to see a dentist, but I keep putting it off.

The second meaning is to make someone dislike something or someone or to make them not want to do something:

I’d love to go skiing, but the cost puts me off.

I was put off chicken by reading about how the birds are kept.

Note that if this phrasal verb is followed by another verb, the second verb needs to have an -ing form:

She put off applying for the job until it was too late.

These experiences put me off going into politics.

This is a rather random selection, but you have to start somewhere, and these are all verbs I think you will be glad to know. Any other suggestions for particularly useful phrasal verbs are welcome!

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65 thoughts on “ 5 Phrasal verbs to impress your teachers ”

A wonderful lesson.

The lesson helped me more to understand about phrasal verbs.Thank you.

think you need to UNDERSTAND ABOUT grammar…

i think i have already posted about the PHaVE dictionary which lists the 150 most common phrasal verbs in American English along with their most common meanings; but i will ask your indulgence and post again : ) http://phave-dictionary.englishup.me/

according to the PHaVE list “point out” is the only one in the top 10; and further it collapses your two meanings for that verb onto one

That’s interesting, thanks! Do you know where they got the frequency data from? I’m not claiming to be listing the most frequent phrasal verbs, just ones that I think students would be likely to find useful in many situations. I think that most learners of English would find the explanations given in the Cambridge dictionary easier to follow that the ones on your link – or they could use both!

Hi data is from COCA. Yes I agree mainstream dictionaries would be good for explanations. PHaVE can be seen as a starter list. In absence of good reasons to use particular verbs frequency is a useful proxy. Ta Mura

The set-up was undone, as we were sorting-out some stuff that can cause major problem if we put-off them day after day

Hi Zeron – remember that when you use a pronoun (in this case ‘them’) with a phrasal verb, the pronoun *always* goes between the verb and the particle: ‘… we put them off …’ . You do not need a hyphen (-) with a phrasal verb, although nouns formed from phrasal verbs (e.g. pay-off, set-up) sometimes have them.

Thank you,it was so nice to learn

Thank you very much, a very good point to keep in mind.

Best regards, Murat Özel

i want to learn english ,im not really good with phrasal verbs, can sb tell me a website where to learn them

Hi Liz, very good answer; except that in this particular case we would also frame the hyphenated phrase (minus the hyphens) with single quotation marks (apostrophes) in American English, or regular quotation marks in British. This is to show the intent of the writer, who wants to highlight which phrases or phrasal verbs are under discussion.

One of the hardest thing for foreign learners is studying phrasal verbs. Very good explanation of some phrasals in this article.

Reblogged this on StatsLife .

Reblogged this on NeXuS .

I was put off chicken!? is that correct?

Yes! Meaning that I didn’t want to eat chicken again.

Thanks, Liz, this explanation – and your article, of coures – helped me a lot!

Hi Liz, Thank you very much for your clear-cut examples on the use of the five phrasal verbs of your choice. I wonder whether you would devote some of your pages to -in my humbled opinion- the paramount difficulty of the English language to non-native speakers: idioms. These are used on a daily basis for all of you, but advanced students of your language often struggle with these eccentric modes of expression as they have no obvious connection within the context of an otherwise perfectly innocuous conversation. As an example thereof, I would only like to mention some of them: shaggy-dog story, take umbrage, red herring, white elephant, and so forth. Regards.

Hi Ansauro: there are several blogs about idioms on this site – if you scroll through some of my older entries, you will find some, but my colleague Kate Woodford has written more about idioms, so do take a look at hers – you will find a link to her blogs on the right-hand side of the page.

Reblogged this on premkumar131's Blog .

Thank you Liz! You can always make difficult things much easier. What about “carry out”? I’m looking forward to your new articles.

Did you mean something else, Tatiana? Carry out is number one on this list 😉

Its a wonderful lesson with easy example

Hi, Liza i have question , he was gone is it correct sentence, i get confused.

Hi Tanvir – I’d need to see the whole sentence in its context to be able to answer that.

thanks Liza thanks to your blog I can learn english much easier. I hope you will keep writing because I’ll keep reading your blog.

Very useful, thank you so much!

Another good one would be “put up with” in a sense of tolerate or endure.

It’s useful. Thanks a lot!

Really made easy and interesting.I am impressed.Thank you very much,

thanks for this comman list of 5. however, I have a confusion: why is it ‘I was put off chicken…..’ and not ‘I put off chicken…..’

May I know what difference ‘was’ creates here. because if I write, I will not add was. I am an English language student. therefore, I would like to learn more from any source.

This is a passive sentence. The object of put off is the person. In an active sentence, we could say: ‘Reading about how chickens are kept put me off eating them.’ In other words, the thing that causes you to dislike something has to be the subject of the sentence.

thanks for your reply. You mentioned: the thing that causes you to dislike something has to be the subject. is this a rule? i mean everytime we have to follow it with this phrasal verb when used in this meaning.

Hi I’m very happy to learn this lessons.. I would like to know your email address if you don’t mind madam.. Because I have to ask some questions about the lesson. .

Hello .. i think this is very usefull thank you i look forward to learning more phrasal verbs..

Hi Liz, thanks for an amazing article! It’s a very interesting topic.. What about ‘carry on’ Is ‘grow up’ also a phrasal verb?

Yes, both good suggestions, thanks!

I was put off chicken by reading about how the birds are kept. I cannot see the point of this sentence grammatically i mean is it in passive voice or put off is a noun or a adjective? Yes, now I got it. it is passive voice clear there is (by) thank you LIZ I am interested in reading all your posts.

A: “Did you read the article on hormones they feed to chicken?” B: “Yes. The article has completely put me off chicken. I am not putting poultry into my mouth never ever again!” A: “I’m still undecided. I love chickenburger so much, you know.”

I wished i could impress my teacher with words in my days

Can u tell me ab I have been +ving and I have+ v3 how different (Im not good in eng)

I need ur help me ab Have been+ v ing Have+ v3

These phrasal verbs are really amazing. I read it first time.

Thanks for your phrasal verbs. These are really helping me to understand and write easily.thanks for your support in helping us.

Your phrasal verbs are really amazing. Thanks.

Reblogged this on egilbi .

Brilliant post, thank you so much!

I was just wondering, is there a significant difference between the meaning of “sort” and “sort out” ? I notice people are often using “we will get it sorted” or “Let me know and I will sort” in emails, but rarely “sort out” ?

I live in the Northwest – maybe it’s a regional thing?

I think it’s just a bit more informal without the ‘out’.

“When I was told he is a drunkard, that put me off him” Is it correct? Thanks

Almost! When I was told he *was* a drunkard …. (have a look at my previous post on reported speech) The phrasal verb part is perfect though!

Reblogged this on 2016-17 C1 Course and commented: Very very useful to share 😊

Useful information for students ..thanks

“basic introduction to what they are and how they are used”

This IS a rather random selection

thank u so much !!!!

Some kind of phrasal verb has to different meaning in English and American, such as SORT OUT SOMETHING in American and SORT STH OUT in English or PUT UP SOMETHING in American and PUT UP STH in English, how can I use them and how distinguish American from English?

Thank you for your question. You’re right that these phrasal verbs can follow two different patterns, for example you can say “put up your hand” or “put your hand up”. However, this is more a personal choice than a difference between British and American English. The way our phrasal verbs appear in our British and American dictionaries is different. This is something we are working to improve.

I hope this answers your question.

Best wishes

I speak, read, and write English (US) as a native language, but I read your posts with fascination and find I can use many of your suggestions to improve my own writing. One question: in my reading, I see the word “that” being used frequently in places I do not feel it necessary. For example in the sentence above: I did not say ‘in places that I do not feel…” Am I in error in avoiding it as a needless word?

Thanks for your comment. Great to know you find our blog useful. In answer to your question: No, it’s not incorrect to omit the word “that”. It is more informal, so if you are writing an essay, it would be better to use “that”. You can find more information and examples here: https://dictionary.cambridge.org/grammar/british-grammar/pronouns/relative-pronouns Scroll down to the heading “No relative pronoun”.

Hi, Thanks alot for this post but I can’t really get the grammar here in this sentence “The papers in his office were in such a mess, they took weeks to sort out.”

*They took weeks to sort out* here Why wasn’t the passive used instead? It seems to me like as if the papers are the subject and they are the ones who sorted themselves.

Really can’t* Were the ones*

No, perhaps it’s easier to think of it as ‘the papers took weeks to sort out’. It’s just the same as e.g. He took a long time to reply to me.’

Thanks so much for your useful post, Liz. I think this sentence “This a rather random selection, but you have to start somewhere, and these are all verbs I think you will be glad to know,” lacks the verb “is” after “this.” Please check it. 🙂

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