Five hand-picked Band 7+ words every day, with pronunciation, an IELTS-style example, synonyms, collocations and a tip on where to use each one in Writing or Speaking. Come back tomorrow for five more.
To become involved in a situation in order to improve it or stop it getting worse.
The state should intervene when companies fail to protect their workers.
IELTS tip: Central to 'free market vs government control' essays; noun: 'intervention'.
To use something mainly to make money, often in a way that spoils it.
Many people feel that traditional festivals have become too commercialised.
IELTS tip: Often passive ('become commercialised'); useful in essays on festivals and tourism.
The arrival of a large number of people or things at the same time.
The summer influx of tourists puts great pressure on the town's water supply.
IELTS tip: Good in tourism and immigration essays; always 'an influx of + noun'.
The police and other organisations whose job is to make people obey the law.
Law enforcement agencies need more resources to fight online fraud.
IELTS tip: A formal way to refer to the police in Task 2.
To pay regularly to receive a newspaper, magazine or online service.
Fewer people subscribe to printed newspapers now that news is free online.
IELTS tip: Always 'subscribe to'; noun 'subscription'.
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