Master the vocabulary that CELPIP graders look for. Organized by CLB level, category, and test section with definitions and example sentences.
To develop or present in detail
“Could you elaborate on the benefits of public transportation in urban areas?”
As a result or effect of something
“The city reduced parking spaces; consequently, more residents began using public transit.”
In addition to what has already been stated
“The program is cost-effective; furthermore, it has shown measurable improvements in student performance.”
In spite of that; despite what was just mentioned
“The project faced significant delays; nevertheless, the team delivered quality results.”
In spite of; regardless of
“Notwithstanding the initial challenges, the community garden project became a tremendous success.”
Mainly; for the most part
“The neighbourhood is predominantly residential, with a few small shops along the main street.”
To make a process easier or possible
“Online platforms facilitate communication between teachers and parents.”
To put a plan or system into effect
“The government plans to implement stricter environmental regulations next year.”
Of considerable importance, size, or worth
“There has been a substantial increase in the number of international students applying to Canadian universities.”
Including all or nearly all elements or aspects
“The report provides a comprehensive overview of the current housing market in Vancouver.”
To express an idea clearly and effectively
“She was able to articulate her concerns about the proposed changes to the workplace policy.”
To serve as a typical example of something
“This initiative exemplifies the kind of community-driven approach that makes neighbourhoods stronger.”
To provide evidence to support a claim
“You need to substantiate your argument with concrete examples from your experience.”
To confirm or support with additional evidence
“Recent studies corroborate the finding that regular exercise improves mental health.”
To make something clear; to explain
“The speaker elucidated the complex immigration process with simple, relatable examples.”
To describe or outline with precision
“The policy document delineates the responsibilities of each team member.”
To include or contain a wide range of things
“The training program encompasses both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.”
To form or make up something
“Immigrants constitute a significant portion of the Canadian workforce.”
Widespread; commonly occurring
“Remote work has become increasingly prevalent since the pandemic.”
Relevant or applicable to a particular matter
“The candidate raised several pertinent questions about workplace safety during the interview.”
Very great or intense; having deep meaning
“Moving to a new country had a profound impact on my perspective about cultural diversity.”
Basic; relating to fundamental principles
“Even a rudimentary understanding of budgeting can help newcomers manage their finances in Canada.”
Showing great attention to detail
“The architect was meticulous in designing an accessible building for people of all abilities.”
Dealing with things in a practical rather than theoretical way
“Taking a pragmatic approach, the committee decided to start with small, achievable goals.”
Producing a great quantity; highly productive
“She is a prolific volunteer who has contributed over 500 hours to local charities.”
Found everywhere; very common
“Smartphones have become ubiquitous, changing how people communicate and access information.”
Representing the most perfect example of something
“The small-town festival is the quintessential Canadian community event.”
Leaving no doubt; clear and unambiguous
“The evidence in favour of recycling programs is unequivocal.”
Never done or known before
“The unprecedented growth in housing prices has affected many Canadian families.”
Seemingly contradictory but possibly true
“It is paradoxical that increased connectivity has led to greater feelings of isolation.”
Existing as a natural or permanent quality
“There are inherent risks in any investment, but diversification helps manage them.”
Making a certain outcome likely; favourable
“A quiet study environment is conducive to effective learning.”
Absolutely necessary; essential
“Reliable public transit is indispensable for commuters who live in suburban areas.”
To make a process happen more quickly
“Filing your application online can expedite the processing time significantly.”
To make something greater by adding to it
“The company plans to augment its workforce with additional seasonal employees.”
To examine something very carefully
“Consumers should scrutinize the terms and conditions before signing any contract.”
To cause something to continue indefinitely
“Stereotypes in media perpetuate misunderstandings about different cultures.”
To make or become less in size, importance, or value
“The heavy snowfall did not diminish the enthusiasm of the festival attendees.”
To distribute resources for a particular purpose
“The city council decided to allocate more funds to affordable housing projects.”
To combine several things into a single more effective whole
“The company consolidated its three offices into one centralized location.”
To spread information widely
“Social media allows organizations to disseminate important health information quickly.”
To emphasize the importance of something
“This incident underscores the need for better workplace safety protocols.”
To place close together for comparison or contrast
“The article juxtaposes urban and rural lifestyles to highlight their differences.”
To make something bad or unsatisfactory better
“New green spaces can ameliorate the effects of urban pollution on residents.”
To demand or specify a requirement as part of an agreement
“The lease stipulates that tenants must give 60 days notice before moving out.”
To make a problem or situation worse
“Cutting funding for mental health services will only exacerbate the existing crisis.”
Having a firm basis in reality; meaningful
“The committee expects substantive proposals rather than vague ideas.”
Successful in producing a desired result; effective
“The tutoring program proved efficacious in improving students' reading scores.”
Very small; far below the real value
“For a nominal fee, residents can access all recreational facilities in the community centre.”
Capable of working successfully; feasible
“Electric vehicles are becoming a more viable option for Canadian commuters.”
Of crucial importance to the outcome
“Effective communication skills play a pivotal role in career advancement.”
Belonging naturally; essential
“Curiosity is an intrinsic part of effective learning.”
Clear and definite; real and concrete
“The volunteer program has produced tangible benefits for the local community.”
Briefly and clearly expressed
“A succinct email is more likely to be read and acted upon by a busy manager.”
Coming after something in time; following
“The initial training session and all subsequent meetings will be held online.”
Existing or happening at the same time
“She managed concurrent responsibilities at work and at her evening language class.”
Done or reached in a final and conclusive way
“The report provides a definitive analysis of the causes of traffic congestion in the city.”
Extremely thorough and careful
“The certification process requires rigorous testing to ensure professional standards are met.”
Characterized by subtle distinctions or variations
“A nuanced understanding of cultural differences is essential for effective cross-cultural communication.”
A natural inclination or tendency
“Young adults have a propensity for adopting new technologies faster than older generations.”
Written or spoken communication or debate
“Public discourse on climate change has intensified in recent years.”
A typical pattern or model of something
“Remote learning represents a paradigm shift in how education is delivered.”
A great difference or inequality
“There is a growing disparity in income levels between urban and rural communities.”
A standard by which something is judged (plural: criteria)
“Language proficiency is a key criterion for many Canadian immigration programs.”
The possible effects or results of an action or decision
“The implications of rising housing costs extend far beyond the real estate market.”
The great size or importance of something
“Few people truly understand the magnitude of the challenge facing healthcare workers.”
The quality of being open to more than one interpretation
“The ambiguity in the contract led to a dispute between the tenant and the landlord.”
General agreement among a group of people
“After a long discussion, the team reached a consensus on the project timeline.”
The ability to produce a desired result
“The efficacy of the new recycling program has exceeded all expectations.”
The possibility of something being done or achieved
“The committee will conduct a feasibility study before approving the new transit line.”
A set of reasons or a logical basis for something
“The rationale behind the new policy is to encourage more sustainable commuting habits.”
Mainly; for the most part
“The workforce in this sector is predominantly composed of skilled immigrants.”
Not taking something into account; regardless
“All employees will receive training irrespective of their previous experience.”
Made necessary by particular circumstances; required
“Having the requisite language skills is essential for settlement in Canada.”
Most noticeable or important
“The most salient point in the presentation was the projected cost savings.”
To appear or claim to be something
“The advertisement purports to offer a guaranteed method for improving test scores.”
To increase rapidly in number; to multiply
“Online learning platforms have proliferated, giving students more options than ever.”
To prevent from happening; to make impossible
“A lack of funding should not preclude students from accessing quality education.”
To be relevant or related to
“The new regulations pertain to all businesses operating in the food service industry.”
Strong and effective in all conditions
“The province needs a more robust public health system to handle future emergencies.”
Used to introduce a statement that contrasts with what has just been said
“The park is beautiful in summer; however, it can be quite crowded on weekends.”
As an extra thing or circumstance
“In addition to offering language classes, the centre provides career counselling.”
Used to present a contrasting point of view
“Living downtown is convenient; on the other hand, the noise can be overwhelming.”
Because of something that has happened
“The factory closed last year; as a result, many residents lost their jobs.”
Used to show differences between two things
“In contrast to the busy city centre, the suburbs offer a quieter lifestyle.”
In a similar way; likewise
“Toronto has a diverse food scene; similarly, Vancouver offers cuisine from around the world.”
In addition; besides (stronger than 'also')
“The new library is energy-efficient; moreover, it was built using recycled materials.”
As an extra factor or circumstance
“The course covers grammar and vocabulary; additionally, it includes speaking practice sessions.”
As a result or consequence of this; therefore
“The bridge was closed for repairs; thus, commuters had to find alternative routes.”
As a consequence; for this reason
“She studied diligently for months; hence, she achieved a CLB 10 on her CELPIP test.”
By that means; as a result of that
“The company reduced packaging waste, thereby lowering its environmental impact.”
In a way that is appropriate to the circumstances
“The weather forecast predicted heavy rain; accordingly, the outdoor event was moved indoors.”
After a particular event or time
“He completed his diploma and subsequently found employment in his field within three months.”
At the same time; in the intervening period
“The manager prepared the report; meanwhile, the team gathered the supporting data.”
As another option or possibility
“You could take the bus to work; alternatively, you could carpool with a colleague.”
Introducing a statement that is the opposite of the previous one
“Urban areas offer more job opportunities; conversely, rural areas provide a lower cost of living.”
In the same way; also
“Parents play a crucial role in education; likewise, teachers contribute significantly to a child's development.”
In spite of that; nevertheless
“The task was challenging; nonetheless, she completed it before the deadline.”
Especially; specifically
“Several factors affect housing prices; in particular, location plays a major role.”
As an example
“Many cities are implementing green initiatives; for instance, Montreal has added over 100 km of bike lanes.”
To give an example that explains something
“To illustrate, consider how a simple recycling program can reduce landfill waste by 30 percent.”
Fundamentally; at the most basic level
“In essence, the new policy aims to make healthcare more accessible to rural communities.”
To give a brief statement of the main points
“To summarize, the three main benefits of volunteering are skill development, networking, and personal satisfaction.”
Used to introduce the final points of a discussion
“In conclusion, investing in public transit is both economically and environmentally sound.”
Most importantly; more than anything else
“Above all, safety should be the primary concern when designing children's playgrounds.”
Considering all aspects; overall
“On balance, the advantages of remote work outweigh the disadvantages for most office employees.”
In a detailed and exact way
“The report specifically mentions the need for more green spaces in the downtown core.”
In a way that is worthy of attention
“Several provinces have improved their recycling rates, notably British Columbia and Ontario.”
Used to acknowledge a point before presenting a counter-argument
“Admittedly, the initial cost of solar panels is high, but the long-term savings are significant.”
Without doubt; certainly
“Technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we communicate in both personal and professional settings.”
By the way; as a side point
“The park was recently renovated; incidentally, it now includes an accessible playground.”
In other words; to clarify
“The program is means-tested; that is to say, eligibility depends on household income.”
In a similar way; for the same reason
“Regular exercise improves physical health; by the same token, it also boosts mental well-being.”
Taking into account; considering
“In light of recent events, the school has updated its emergency procedures.”
In reality; actually
“Many people assume the test is easy; as a matter of fact, it requires thorough preparation.”
On the condition that; if
“You can renew your membership online, provided that your account is in good standing.”
Without being affected by something; in any case
“All students are encouraged to participate, regardless of their language level.”
During the time before something happens
“The new office will be ready in March; in the meantime, staff will work from home.”
For that purpose; with that goal in mind
“The school aims to improve literacy rates; to that end, it has hired five additional reading specialists.”
Concerning; in relation to
“With regard to your request for a schedule change, I am happy to accommodate it.”
In spite of; despite
“Notwithstanding the rain, the outdoor market attracted hundreds of visitors.”
To the extent that; since
“The plan is beneficial inasmuch as it reduces costs while maintaining service quality.”
To the degree or extent that
“The policy is effective insofar as it addresses the most urgent environmental concerns.”
In contrast or comparison with the fact that
“The first option is affordable, whereas the second offers better long-term value.”
From this time on; from now on
“Henceforth, all employees must complete the safety training before starting their shifts.”
To express the same idea in another way
“The budget is tight; to put it differently, we need to prioritize our spending carefully.”
Taking everything into account
“All things considered, moving to a smaller city was the best decision for our family.”
Despite what was just mentioned
“The restaurant is a bit expensive; having said that, the quality of the food is exceptional.”
Simultaneously; used to add a contrasting point
“The policy helps reduce costs; at the same time, it ensures quality standards are maintained.”
Used to highlight differences between two things
“Older buildings have more character; by contrast, new condos offer modern amenities.”
To publicly support or recommend a cause or policy
“I strongly advocate for more affordable childcare options in our community.”
To assert something as a position in an argument
“I contend that investing in education yields the highest returns for society.”
To state a fact or belief confidently and forcefully
“Many experts assert that bilingualism provides cognitive benefits throughout life.”
To state something strongly as being true
“I maintain that community involvement is essential for solving local problems.”
To give reasons or evidence in support of an idea
“Some people argue that technology has made our lives more complicated rather than simpler.”
To put forward a plan or suggestion for consideration
“I would propose that the company offer flexible working hours to improve employee satisfaction.”
To suggest as the best option; to advise
“I would strongly recommend taking a preparation course before your CELPIP test.”
To have a firm conviction about something
“I strongly believe that every child deserves access to quality education regardless of background.”
To recommend something with conviction
“I would firmly suggest that the city invest in better cycling infrastructure.”
Used to express a personal opinion
“In my view, volunteering is one of the best ways to integrate into a new community.”
To force or strongly persuade someone to do something
“The evidence compels us to reconsider our approach to waste management.”
To convince someone to do or believe something
“I would try to persuade my friend to consider the long-term benefits rather than just the immediate costs.”
To cause someone to believe firmly in something
“The presentation convinced the board that the expansion plan was worth pursuing.”
To declare public approval or support for something
“I wholeheartedly endorse the initiative to create more green spaces in urban areas.”
To publicly declare something to be wrong or evil
“Environmental groups denounce the use of single-use plastics in food packaging.”
To prove a statement or theory to be wrong
“The researcher was able to refute the claim that the program had no measurable impact.”
To admit that something is true after first resisting it
“I concede that there are some drawbacks, but the overall benefits far outweigh them.”
To accept or admit the existence or truth of something
“We must acknowledge that climate change is affecting communities across Canada.”
To give special importance or attention to something
“I want to emphasize that preparation is the key to success on the CELPIP test.”
To say something again for emphasis or clarity
“I would like to reiterate that safety must always be our top priority.”
To show or prove to be right or reasonable
“It is difficult to justify spending millions on a new stadium when schools need repairs.”
To confirm the truth or value of something
“The positive results validate the decision to invest in renewable energy sources.”
To evaluate something in a detailed and analytical way
“It is important to critique policies constructively rather than simply opposing them.”
To question whether something is true or valid
“Several experts dispute the accuracy of the statistics used in the report.”
To strongly encourage someone to do something
“I urge the council to reconsider the proposed changes to the bus routes.”
To demand something forcefully; to state firmly
“I insist that all team members be given equal opportunities for professional development.”
To beg someone earnestly to do something
“I would implore the government to take immediate action on the housing affordability crisis.”
To specify as a necessary condition
“I would stipulate that any agreement must include provisions for employee training.”
Used to introduce a personal viewpoint
“From my perspective, learning a second language opens doors to countless opportunities.”
Used to express a strong personal belief
“It is my conviction that public libraries are essential to community development.”
A formal way to express a personal view
“I am of the opinion that flexible work arrangements benefit both employers and employees.”
It is logical or reasonable to assume that
“It stands to reason that students who study regularly will perform better on exams.”
Used to present a debatable point
“One could argue that social media has done more harm than good to interpersonal relationships.”
It is impossible to disagree with the fact that
“There is no denying that immigration has enriched Canadian culture in countless ways.”
It is obvious or self-evident
“It goes without saying that hard work and dedication are necessary for achieving your goals.”
Certainly; definitely
“Without a doubt, learning English has been the most valuable investment in my career.”
With complete sincerity and commitment
“I wholeheartedly support the proposal to extend library hours for students.”
In a way that is absolute, unconditional, and without exception
“I categorically reject the notion that test scores alone determine a person's ability.”
Without any doubt; certainly
“Volunteering is unquestionably one of the most rewarding experiences a person can have.”
It may be argued that; possibly
“Arguably, the most effective way to learn a language is through complete immersion.”
A person who advocates for something
“As a proponent of renewable energy, I believe Canada should invest more in wind and solar power.”
A general agreement among a group
“The growing consensus among educators is that hands-on learning is more effective than lectures.”
An attitude or viewpoint from which something is considered
“From an economic standpoint, investing in public transit reduces overall transportation costs.”
A firmly held belief or opinion
“It is my conviction that every newcomer to Canada deserves support during their settlement process.”
A tendency or preference towards something
“My inclination is to support the option that benefits the greatest number of people.”
To put forward as a basis for argument
“I would posit that access to green spaces directly improves quality of life in urban areas.”
To provide evidence or testimony that something exists or is true
“Many graduates attest to the value of hands-on internship experience.”
To respond to an argument with an opposing point
“Some may counter that the cost is too high, but the long-term savings justify the investment.”
To maintain or defend a principle or decision
“I uphold the view that education should be accessible to all, regardless of income.”
To vigorously support or defend a cause
“She has consistently championed the rights of immigrants in her community.”
To emphasize or stress the importance of
“I want to underscore the importance of early childhood education for long-term success.”
Very probably; almost certainly
“In all likelihood, the new regulations will improve water quality within two years.”
It is absolutely necessary that
“It is imperative that we address climate change before the situation becomes irreversible.”
Used to express a leaning towards a particular view
“I am inclined to believe that community involvement is the key to reducing crime.”
To provide evidence to support a position
“We need data to substantiate the claim that remote work increases productivity.”
To argue against a statement or claim
“The researcher rebutted the criticism by presenting additional supporting evidence.”
A statement assumed to be true for the basis of an argument
“The policy is built on the premise that early intervention prevents larger problems later.”
The quality of deserving praise or reward; a good point
“The proposal has considerable merit and deserves serious consideration by the committee.”
A person's inherent tendency or inclination
“My disposition towards this issue is that prevention is always better than cure.”
A claim or assertion that something is the case, often without proof
“The allegation that the program is ineffective is not supported by the available data.”
In a way that produces powerful feelings or clear images in the mind
“I vividly remember the first time I saw the Rocky Mountains — it was breathtaking.”
In a way that shows great attention to detail
“The garden was meticulously maintained, with every hedge perfectly trimmed.”
In a complete and detailed manner
“Before making a decision, I thoroughly researched all the available options.”
In a way that shows great excitement and interest
“The children enthusiastically participated in the community cleanup event.”
In an unwilling or hesitant manner
“He reluctantly agreed to the schedule change because he understood it was necessary.”
In a way that is certain to happen; unavoidably
“As cities grow, traffic congestion will inevitably increase without proper transit planning.”
In a way that is sudden, striking, or impressive
“The neighbourhood has changed dramatically over the past decade with new condos and shops.”
In a slow and steady manner
“My English gradually improved after I started practising with native speakers every day.”
In a way that is important or large enough to be noticed
“The new transit line has significantly reduced commute times for residents in the area.”
In a way that is worthy of attention; surprisingly
“The volunteer team worked remarkably fast and finished the project two weeks ahead of schedule.”
Mainly; for the most part
“The area is predominantly agricultural, with farms stretching across the flat landscape.”
Full of energetic and noisy activity
“In the picture, I can see a bustling outdoor market with people browsing colourful stalls.”
Calm, peaceful, and untroubled
“The lake in the background creates a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxation.”
Visually attractive, especially in a quaint or charming way
“The small town has a picturesque main street lined with heritage buildings and maple trees.”
Full of energy and life; bright and strong
“Toronto is a vibrant city with a diverse population and endless cultural events.”
Spreading out over a large area in an untidy way
“The sprawling suburbs extend far beyond the city centre, requiring long commutes.”
Attractively unusual or old-fashioned
“The quaint bookshop on the corner has been serving the community for over fifty years.”
In a state of disrepair or ruin
“The dilapidated building on the corner has been scheduled for renovation by the city.”
Perfectly clean, neat, or tidy
“The hotel lobby was immaculate, with polished floors and fresh flowers on every table.”
Next to or near something
“The playground is adjacent to the community centre, making it convenient for families.”
Clearly visible; attracting notice
“A conspicuous safety sign is posted at the entrance of the construction site.”
Growing thickly and healthily; rich and abundant
“The park features lush green lawns and tall oak trees that provide shade in summer.”
Empty and without people; bleak and depressing
“After the factory closed, the once-thriving street became increasingly desolate.”
Elaborately decorated; highly detailed
“The ornate ceiling of the old city hall is a popular attraction for visitors.”
In its original condition; unspoiled
“The hiking trail leads to a pristine lake surrounded by untouched wilderness.”
In the middle of; surrounded by
“Amid the busy streets, a small park offers a quiet place for residents to relax.”
Completely absorbed or occupied by something
“In the picture, a young woman appears engrossed in a book while sitting on a park bench.”
Full of life or excitement; lively
“The group is having an animated discussion, with everyone gesturing and smiling.”
Done or existing alone
“A solitary jogger runs along the waterfront path in the early morning light.”
So crowded as to hinder movement
“The downtown streets are congested during rush hour, making driving impractical.”
Involving many carefully arranged parts; detailed and complicated
“The restaurant has an elaborate menu featuring dishes from over twenty different countries.”
Capable of attracting and holding attention
“The speaker gave a captivating presentation about the history of immigration to Canada.”
Free from disturbance; calm
“The scene depicts a tranquil countryside with rolling hills and a gentle stream.”
Grand and impressive in appearance
“The imposing stone building at the centre of town serves as the main courthouse.”
Showing a great variety; very different
“Canada is known for its diverse population, with residents from nearly every country in the world.”
Prospering; flourishing
“The neighbourhood has a thriving local economy with many independent shops and restaurants.”
Becoming progressively worse
“The deteriorating condition of the bridge prompted the city to begin emergency repairs.”
In a tidy and orderly way
“The items on the shelves are neatly arranged by category and colour.”
To some extent; not completely
“The building is partially hidden behind a row of tall trees.”
In a way that is easily seen or noticed
“A Canadian flag is prominently displayed on the front of the government building.”
Hardly; barely
“There was scarcely any room left on the train during the morning rush.”
To spread throughout something
“The aroma of fresh bread permeates the entire neighbourhood every morning.”
To issue or spread out from a source
“A warm, welcoming light emanates from the windows of the community centre.”
To represent or show in a picture or with words
“The mural on the wall depicts the history of the neighbourhood from the 1920s to today.”
To bring a feeling, memory, or image to mind
“The photograph evokes a sense of nostalgia for simpler times.”
To look or seem like something
“The new shopping centre resembles a European-style open-air market.”
To surround or enclose completely
“Dense forest encompasses the small town, creating a beautiful natural setting.”
To make more noticeable or prominent
“The bright red roof accentuates the building against the snowy landscape.”
To appear more important or prominent than
“A tall modern skyscraper overshadows the historic church on the corner.”
To travel across or through
“A wooden bridge traverses the creek, connecting the two sections of the park.”
Having ample room; large and roomy
“The new community centre features a spacious lobby with comfortable seating areas.”
Closely and neatly packed together; small but efficiently arranged
“Despite being compact, the apartment makes clever use of every available space.”
Covered or filled with a disorderly collection of things
“The desk appears cluttered with papers, books, and a laptop computer.”
Following a twisting or turning course
“A winding path leads from the parking area up to the scenic lookout point.”
Spread or distributed over a wide area
“Several people are scattered across the park, enjoying the warm afternoon sun.”
Extremely tall or high
“Towering glass buildings dominate the skyline of the downtown financial district.”
Following a winding course
“A meandering river can be seen flowing through the valley in the background.”
In a state of disrepair or ruin due to age or neglect
“Several dilapidated houses on the street are being considered for renovation.”
Shining brightly with reflected light
“The gleaming new hospital building stands out against the cloudy sky.”
Not bright; subdued in colour or tone
“The room is decorated in muted earth tones, creating a warm and calming atmosphere.”
Feeling very happy, animated, and energized
“I felt exhilarated after receiving the letter confirming my permanent residency.”
Feeling distress or worry caused by something unexpected
“I was dismayed to learn that the community centre would be closing permanently.”
Anxious or fearful about the future
“I felt apprehensive about speaking in public, but the experience turned out to be rewarding.”
Feeling a strong emotional response; unable to cope
“When I first arrived in Canada, I felt overwhelmed by all the new experiences and responsibilities.”
Feeling or showing appreciation for something
“I am deeply grateful for the support my colleagues provided during my first weeks at the job.”
Feeling upset or annoyed because of inability to change something
“Many commuters feel frustrated when public transit services are delayed without explanation.”
Having or showing intense enjoyment or interest
“The students were enthusiastic about the field trip to the science museum.”
Worried or troubled about something
“Many parents are concerned about the amount of screen time their children spend each day.”
Feeling or showing great pleasure
“I was delighted to hear that the neighbourhood playground had been completely renovated.”
Extremely shocked and upset
“The community was devastated when the historic library was destroyed by the fire.”
Feeling or expressing overwhelming happiness
“She was ecstatic when she learned she had been accepted into the nursing program.”
Having lost determination or confidence
“After several unsuccessful job interviews, he felt disheartened but refused to give up.”
Extremely happy and excited
“I was elated when my family finally received their visas to join me in Canada.”
Completely baffled; very puzzled
“I was perplexed by the complicated paperwork required for the application.”
Feeling or showing anger at unfair treatment
“Residents were indignant about the decision to build a highway through their neighbourhood.”
Feeling a sentimental longing for the past
“Visiting the old neighbourhood made me feel nostalgic for my childhood.”
Having mixed feelings about something
“I feel ambivalent about working overtime — I appreciate the extra income but value my free time.”
Expressing thoughtful consideration
“She sat in a contemplative mood, weighing the pros and cons of the job offer.”
Feeling bitterness about something unfair
“Some long-time employees felt resentful when the new hire was promoted ahead of them.”
Feeling or showing sympathy and concern for others
“A compassionate approach to customer service can turn a complaint into a positive experience.”
No longer feeling distressed or anxious
“I was immensely relieved when the test results came back and everything was normal.”
Extremely angry
“Customers were infuriated by the airline's refusal to compensate for the cancelled flights.”
Showing the ability to understand and share others' feelings
“An empathetic manager listens to employees' concerns and takes them seriously.”
In low spirits from loss of hope or courage
“After months of searching without finding a job, he became increasingly despondent.”
Feeling or expressing great happiness and triumph
“The entire community was jubilant when the local team won the national championship.”
Disappointed by something previously respected or admired
“Many young people have become disenchanted with traditional career paths.”
Perplexed and confused
“The tourists looked bewildered as they tried to navigate the complicated subway system.”
Causing or likely to cause disagreement
“The decision to close the local school was highly contentious among residents.”
Showing or feeling no interest or concern
“Voter turnout suggests that many citizens feel apathetic about municipal elections.”
Intensely irritated and frustrated
“The teacher was exasperated by the constant interruptions during the lesson.”
Hopeful and confident about the future
“Despite the challenges, I remain optimistic that the project will succeed.”
Tending to see the worst aspect of things
“While some people are pessimistic about the economy, I see many reasons for hope.”
Experiencing worry or nervousness
“I felt anxious before my CELPIP test, but deep breathing helped me stay calm.”
Prompted by feelings of tenderness or nostalgia
“The old photographs hold great sentimental value for my family.”
Filled with regret or guilt
“He was remorseful about not spending more time with his family before the move.”
Greatly surprised or amazed
“I was astonished by the beauty of the Northern Lights during my first winter in Yukon.”
Disappointed in someone or something previously admired
“After discovering the hidden fees, customers became disillusioned with the service provider.”
Feeling or showing caution about possible dangers
“Consumers should be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.”
Giving pleasure or satisfaction
“It is gratifying to see the positive impact that the mentorship program has had on newcomers.”
Greatly dismayed or horrified
“Residents were appalled to learn about the amount of pollution being released into the river.”
Admirably purposeful and determined
“She remained resolute in her decision to pursue higher education despite financial difficulties.”
A feeling of pensive sadness
“Leaving my home country filled me with a deep sense of melancholy.”
Willing to consider or accept new ideas
“The manager was receptive to our suggestions for improving the work environment.”
Filled with a feeling of wonder and amazement
“I was awestruck by the scale and grandeur of Niagara Falls on my first visit.”
Feeling proven right after being doubted
“After months of hard work, she felt vindicated when the project received national recognition.”
Showing smug satisfaction with oneself, often without awareness of risks
“We must not become complacent about environmental protection just because conditions have improved.”
Holding firmly to a purpose; persistent and determined
“Her tenacious attitude helped her overcome every obstacle during the immigration process.”
Feeling a modest sense of one's own importance
“I felt deeply humbled by the outpouring of support from the community after the fundraiser.”
Feeling anxious or uncomfortable
“I felt uneasy about the sudden changes to our work schedule without prior notice.”
Filled with lively energy and excitement
“The crowd was exuberant as the fireworks lit up the sky on Canada Day.”
To make something less severe, serious, or painful
“Planting more trees can help mitigate the effects of air pollution in urban areas.”
To make suffering or a problem less severe
“The new bus routes are designed to alleviate traffic congestion during peak hours.”
To deal with or discuss a problem or issue
“The government must address the growing concern about affordable housing in major cities.”
To find a solution to a problem or dispute
“The two departments worked together to resolve the scheduling conflict.”
To make determined efforts to deal with a problem
“The community came together to tackle the issue of littering in local parks.”
To succeed in dealing with a problem or difficulty
“With determination and support, newcomers can overcome the challenges of settling in a new country.”
To put right; to correct an error or problem
“The company took immediate steps to rectify the billing errors that affected hundreds of customers.”
To set right; to fix an undesirable situation
“Building more affordable housing is one way to remedy the shortage in the rental market.”
To act against something in order to reduce its effect
“Regular exercise can counteract the negative effects of a sedentary office job.”
To find a way around an obstacle or difficulty
“By working from home, many employees circumvent the problem of long daily commutes.”
To become progressively worse
“Without proper maintenance, road conditions will continue to deteriorate over the winter.”
To make a problem or bad situation worse
“Ignoring water leaks will only exacerbate the damage to the building over time.”
To hinder or impede the movement or progress of
“Poor internet connectivity continues to hamper remote workers in rural areas.”
To create difficulties that delay or prevent progress
“Language barriers can hinder access to essential government services for newcomers.”
To delay or prevent by obstructing
“Bureaucratic red tape can impede the process of starting a small business.”
To completely remove or get rid of something
“The goal is to eliminate single-use plastics from all company operations by next year.”
To reduce something to the smallest possible amount
“Proper planning can minimize the disruption caused by construction in the neighbourhood.”
To destroy completely; to put an end to
“The organization aims to eradicate food insecurity in the region within the next five years.”
To restrain or keep in check
“New speed limits have been introduced to curb dangerous driving on residential streets.”
To prevent or turn away an undesirable occurrence
“Early warning systems can avert disasters by giving communities time to prepare.”
To make a problem or situation worse
“Construction noise during the day aggravates the already stressful conditions for hospital patients nearby.”
To put something at risk of being lost or harmed
“Budget cuts could jeopardize the quality of education in public schools.”
A difficult or unpleasant situation
“Many tenants face a predicament: pay rising rents or move further from the city centre.”
A situation requiring a choice between equally undesirable alternatives
“The city faces a dilemma between preserving green spaces and building needed housing.”
A disadvantage or problem
“The main drawback of living downtown is the high cost of rent.”
A fault or failure to meet a certain standard
“One shortcoming of the current system is that it does not account for part-time workers.”
Something that blocks or hinders progress
“The biggest obstacle to learning English is often a lack of daily practice opportunities.”
A reversal or check in progress
“The project experienced a setback when the main supplier went out of business.”
An unintended consequence of an action or event
“The repercussions of closing the factory were felt throughout the entire community.”
A complex consequence of an action or event
“The ramifications of the new policy extend well beyond the education sector.”
A point of congestion that slows down a process
“The narrow bridge creates a bottleneck during rush hour, causing significant delays.”
A practical and workable answer to a problem
“Expanding the bus network is a viable solution to reduce traffic in the city centre.”
The fundamental reason for the occurrence of a problem
“To fix the issue permanently, we must identify the root cause rather than just treating symptoms.”
To take action to deal with a problem
“The school should take measures to prevent bullying on campus.”
To present a difficulty that needs to be dealt with
“The harsh winter weather poses a challenge for outdoor workers in northern Canada.”
To begin to deal with or understand a difficult situation
“The company must come to grips with the fact that customer expectations have changed.”
To stop a problem before it gets worse
“Early intervention programs aim to nip behavioural issues in the bud before they escalate.”
To stop or restrict the flow or progress of something undesirable
“The government introduced new regulations to stem the tide of misinformation online.”
To protect against something undesirable
“Proper training helps safeguard employees against workplace injuries.”
To free from a difficult or entangled situation
“The community worked together to extricate itself from the financial difficulties caused by the flood.”
Of higher quality, rank, or performance
“Many argue that public healthcare is superior to private systems in terms of accessibility.”
Lower in quality, rank, or importance
“The cheaper product proved to be inferior in durability compared to the brand-name version.”
Of equivalent quality; able to be compared
“The cost of living in Calgary is comparable to that of Edmonton.”
Clearly different or separate
“Urban and rural lifestyles offer distinct advantages that appeal to different people.”
In contrast or comparison with the fact that
“Option A is more affordable, whereas Option B offers better long-term value.”
To exceed or go beyond in degree or quality
“The new model surpasses the previous version in both performance and energy efficiency.”
To be greater or more important than
“In my opinion, the benefits of regular exercise far outweigh any inconvenience.”
To surpass in importance or achievement
“The popularity of streaming services has eclipsed that of traditional cable television.”
Comparable in certain respects; similar
“Learning to drive is analogous to learning a language — both require consistent practice.”
Equal in value, function, or meaning
“A CLB 9 score on CELPIP is roughly equivalent to a band 7 on IELTS.”
A great difference between things
“There is a significant disparity between housing prices in Toronto and smaller Ontario cities.”
A lack of compatibility or similarity between two or more facts
“There is a discrepancy between what the company promises and what it actually delivers.”
To only a limited extent; slightly
“The second option is marginally cheaper, but the first offers significantly better quality.”
To a very great extent; immensely
“Working conditions have vastly improved since the new regulations were introduced.”
To a noticeable or significant extent
“Student performance has improved markedly since the tutoring program was implemented.”
To seem much less important or impressive when compared
“The old library pales in comparison to the modern, fully equipped one that replaced it.”
At the same level or standard as
“The quality of education at community colleges is on par with many universities.”
Very different from; sharply opposed to
“In stark contrast to the busy downtown, the suburbs feel peaceful and spacious.”
Easily seen or noticed
“There is a noticeable difference in air quality between the downtown core and the outlying areas.”
So small or unimportant as to be not worth considering
“The price difference between the two plans is negligible, so I would choose based on features.”
More important than anything else; supreme
“When comparing the two approaches, student safety should be paramount in the decision.”
More desirable or suitable
“Walking to work is preferable to driving, especially when the weather is pleasant.”
Not able to be identified as different
“The replica is nearly indistinguishable from the original painting.”
Too large or too small in comparison with something else
“A disproportionate amount of the budget is spent on administration rather than services.”
Corresponding in size or degree; proportionate
“The salary offered should be commensurate with the candidate's experience and qualifications.”
Similar or related to
“The feeling of passing the CELPIP test is akin to achieving a personal milestone.”
To appear more important or prominent than something else
“The cost of the project should not overshadow the potential benefits it brings to the community.”
To be equal to or comparable with
“Few cities can rival Vancouver for its combination of mountains, ocean, and urban culture.”
To recognize or identify differences between things
“It is important to differentiate between facts and opinions when evaluating information.”
To place side by side for comparison
“The report juxtaposes urban and rural healthcare outcomes to highlight the gap in services.”
To cause an event or situation to happen
“The announcement triggered a wave of protests across the city.”
To help cause or bring about a result
“Several factors contribute to the high cost of living in major Canadian cities.”
To cause a particular outcome
“Poor planning can result in significant delays and increased costs.”
To cause something to happen or exist
“A lack of exercise can lead to various health problems over time.”
To be caused by or originate from
“Many workplace conflicts stem from poor communication between departments.”
To regard something as being caused by
“Experts attribute the decline in air quality to increased vehicle emissions.”
To cause something to happen or exist
“The new policy gave rise to widespread debate among community members.”
To cause something to happen
“Technology has brought about significant changes in how we work and communicate.”
To be the explanation or cause of something
“Housing costs account for the largest portion of most Canadians' monthly expenses.”
Because of; as a result of
“Owing to the recent snowstorm, all evening classes have been cancelled.”
To cause an event to happen suddenly or sooner than expected
“The sudden price increase precipitated a sharp decline in consumer spending.”
To cause or give rise to a feeling or situation
“Inclusive policies engender a sense of belonging among all employees.”
To draw out a response or reaction
“The mayor's speech elicited strong reactions from both supporters and critics.”
To stimulate or give rise to a reaction
“The controversial documentary provoked a nationwide conversation about food safety.”
To bring about or initiate an action or event
“The community group instigated a campaign to clean up the local river.”
To reach a climax or point of highest development
“Years of community advocacy culminated in the construction of a new public park.”
Because of; as a result of
“By virtue of its location, Vancouver has become a major gateway for Pacific trade.”
Because of
“The outdoor concert was postponed on account of the severe weather warning.”
Because of what was just mentioned
“The roads are icy and dangerous; for this reason, the school has declared a snow day.”
So that; having the consequence that
“The company invested in automation, with the result that production efficiency increased by 40 percent.”
As a result of this action
“The new policy reduces emissions, thereby contributing to a cleaner environment.”
As a result
“The factory closed; consequently, hundreds of workers lost their livelihoods.”
To cause or produce
“Rapid urbanization gives rise to a range of environmental and social challenges.”
To ignite or set off a process or reaction
“The documentary sparked a public discussion about the importance of mental health awareness.”
To cause or accelerate a process or change
“The pandemic catalyzed the adoption of remote work across many industries.”
To drive or push forward
“Her passion for community service propelled her into a leadership role at the charity.”
To make something worse by adding more problems
“Rising food prices compound the financial difficulties faced by low-income families.”
To encourage or prompt an action
“The success of the pilot program spurred the government to expand it nationwide.”
The force or energy that drives something forward
“The growing demand for skilled workers provided the impetus for the new training initiative.”
A person or thing that causes an important change
“The new community centre has been a catalyst for neighbourhood revitalization.”
Replace basic words with CLB 7 and CLB 9+ alternatives to demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and improve your score.
| Instead of... | Use (CLB 7) | Use (CLB 9+) | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| good | CLB 7beneficial | CLB 9advantageous | Regular exercise is advantageous for both physical and mental health. |
| bad | CLB 7unfavourable | CLB 9detrimental | Excessive screen time can be detrimental to children's development. |
| important | CLB 7significant | CLB 9paramount | Safety is paramount when designing public transportation systems. |
| think | CLB 7believe | CLB 9contend | I contend that investing in education yields the highest returns for society. |
| very | CLB 7considerably | CLB 9remarkably | The program has been remarkably successful in reducing dropout rates. |
| a lot | CLB 7numerous | CLB 9substantial | A substantial number of immigrants contribute to Canada's economic growth. |
| show | CLB 7demonstrate | CLB 9exemplify | These results exemplify the effectiveness of early intervention programs. |
| help | CLB 7assist | CLB 9facilitate | Community centres facilitate the integration of newcomers into Canadian society. |
| big | CLB 7significant | CLB 9considerable | There has been a considerable increase in demand for affordable housing. |
| small | CLB 7minor | CLB 9negligible | The difference in commute time between the two routes is negligible. |
| get | CLB 7acquire | CLB 9obtain | Applicants must obtain all required documents before submitting their applications. |
| give | CLB 7offer | CLB 9provide | The organization provides essential services to families in need. |
| make | CLB 7create | CLB 9construct | The team worked together to construct a comprehensive plan for the project. |
| use | CLB 7employ | CLB 9utilize | Companies should utilize renewable energy sources to reduce their carbon footprint. |
| say | CLB 7state | CLB 9articulate | She was able to articulate her position clearly during the meeting. |
| like | CLB 7enjoy | CLB 9appreciate | I deeply appreciate the support my colleagues have given me throughout this transition. |
| want | CLB 7desire | CLB 9aspire | Many newcomers aspire to build successful careers in their chosen fields. |
| need | CLB 7require | CLB 9necessitate | The project's complexity necessitates careful planning and coordination. |
| start | CLB 7begin | CLB 9initiate | The committee decided to initiate a review of the current hiring process. |
| end | CLB 7finish | CLB 9conclude | I would like to conclude by emphasizing the importance of community involvement. |
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