IELTS Academic Words: Verbs #1

To dig out earth to find or make space for something, like a building or archaeological site.

"Archaeologists plan to excavate the ancient burial site next month."

To behave or think in a way that is accepted by a group or society.

"In order to maintain harmony in the community, individuals were encouraged to conform to the established norms and values."

To leave out or not include.

"The private club's policy is to exclude non-members from attending its events."

To show off something you are proud of.

"She loves to flaunt her designer clothes at every social event she attends."

To follow rules or commands.

"Children are taught to obey their parents and teachers."

To distort or slant in a particular direction.

"The unexpected drop in sales last quarter may skew the annual financial projections."

To soak up or take in a substance.

"The sponge can absorb a lot of water, making it perfect for cleaning spills."

To pollute or make impure.

"The industrial spill threatened to contaminate the town's water supply, posing a risk to public health."

To set free or let go.

"The band is excited to release their new album next month."

To make someone feel certain or sure about something.

"I can assure you that all the guests will be amazed by the quality of the event you're planning."

To grow or nurture something.

"Farmers in the region cultivate both rice and vegetables, depending on the season."

To attract or tempt.

"The aroma of freshly baked cookies was enough to entice me into the kitchen."

To cause something to happen.

"The relaxing music and dim lighting in the spa were meant to induce a state of calm and help clients de-stress."

To make someone feel obligated to do something.

"Local zoning laws oblige the company to provide a certain amount of parking space for its employees."

To use pressure to make someone do something.

"The engineers needed to pressurize the cabin to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers at high altitudes."

To comfort or give confidence to.

"The doctor was able to reassure the patient by explaining the procedure in detail beforehand."

To try to get someone to do something, often something not good.

"Though Jane was on a diet, the sight of the chocolate cake was too tempting to resist."

To strongly recommend or try to persuade.

"She felt an overwhelming urge to tell her friends the good news."

To pull or draw someone or something closer, usually because they find it interesting or appealing.

"The bright colors of the flowers attract bees and butterflies."