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IELTS vocabulary

IELTS Vocabulary for Culture and Society: Key Collocations

Questions about traditions, language, family and social change are common in Task 2 and Speaking Part 3. This vocabulary helps you discuss cultural identity and social issues in a balanced, formal way.

Traditions and identity

Word or phraseMeaningExample
cultural identitythe sense of belonging to a cultureLanguage is a key part of cultural identity.
traditional customslong-established ways of behavingTraditional customs are passed down from grandparents.
preserveprotect so it does not disappearMuseums help preserve local crafts.
cultural diversitythe presence of many culturesCultural diversity enriches city life.
heritage sitea place protected for its historic valueThe ancient city was named a heritage site.
folk musictraditional music of ordinary peopleFolk music reflects a region's history.
ceremonya formal event on a special occasionThe wedding ceremony lasted three days.

Social change and globalisation

Word or phraseMeaningExample
globalisationgrowing connection between countriesGlobalisation has made products and ideas travel faster.
assimilatebecome part of a new cultureImmigrants often assimilate within a few generations.
generation gapdifferences in outlook between old and youngThe generation gap is wider when technology changes rapidly.
social normsunwritten rules of behaviourSocial norms about dress differ between countries.
urbanisationgrowth of towns and citiesRapid urbanisation has changed family life.
lose touch withno longer be connected toYoung city dwellers may lose touch with their roots.
westernisationadoption of Western habitsSome people fear the westernisation of local food.

Family and community

Word or phraseMeaningExample
extended familyrelatives beyond parents and childrenLiving in an extended family provides practical support.
nuclear familyparents and their children onlyThe nuclear family is more common in cities.
sense of communityfeeling of belonging to a neighbourhoodA sense of community makes older people feel safe.
social bondsrelationships holding a group togetherFestivals strengthen social bonds between neighbours.
upbringingthe way a child is raisedMy upbringing taught me to respect elders.
role modela person others copyA teacher can be a powerful role model.
single-parent householda home with one parentA single-parent household needs extra social support.

Social issues

Word or phraseMeaningExample
social inequalityunfair gaps between groups in societyEducation is a key tool against social inequality.
discriminationunfair treatment of a groupLaws should prohibit discrimination in hiring.
stereotypea fixed, oversimplified idea about a groupFilms sometimes reinforce stereotypes about older people.
marginalisedpushed to the edges of societyMarginalised communities need better access to services.
social cohesionunity within a communityShared public spaces improve social cohesion.
volunteerdo unpaid work to help othersMany students volunteer at animal shelters.
charitable organisationa group that helps people in needCharitable organisations depend on public donations.

How to use these words well

  • Use balanced verbs: cultural diversity can enrich, strengthen or challenge a society.
  • Avoid sweeping statements about nationalities; refer to groups with neutral phrases such as some communities.
  • Use globalisation only when you can explain its effect on the topic, for example on food or language.
  • Prepare one personal example of a family tradition for Speaking Part 2.

Study guides

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