Explore Courses

Top 7 Collocations Types For IELTS: Collocation Examples Sentences

Updated on 29 July, 2024

Sunita Kadian

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

Collocation, an important part of the English language, has a significant role in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. The correct use of collocation will help improve IELTS scores. As per the IELTS band requirement, applicants should use less common lexical terms with some awareness of collocations. 

When non-native English speakers use collocations correctly in the writing section, they can prove their proficiency in the English language like a native speaker. If you want an abroad education and aim to score high in the IELTS speaking and writing sections, you must use collocations accurately.

Collocations combine two or more definite words to make a phrase that makes appropriate sense. While communicating, correct usage of collocations makes interaction smooth, accurate, and fluent. Especially for writing task 2, the test takers should use collocations correctly to ace the writing test. 

The easiest way to be proficient in collocation for IELTS is by reading English regularly.

Collocations combine two or more definite words to make a phrase so that it makes appropriate sense. While communicating correct usage of collocations makes interaction smooth, accurate, and fluent. Especially for writing task 2, the test takers should use collocations correctly to ace the writing test. The easiest way to be proficient in collocation for IELTS is by reading English regularly. 

Important Collocations for IELTS Examination

  • Have: have fun, have a blast, have a phone, have food, and have breakfast.
  • Make: make your bed, why don’t you make your breakfast? make some tea, make your food.
  • Do: do your homework before you sleep, do it right now, do get up early.
  • Take: take a bite from me, take your pen, take a bath, take a knife.
  • Keep: keep your bag off, keep it on the desk, keep a smile on your face.
  • Get: get it done, get married, get off, get ready.
  • Go: go out, go home, go to school.

How Do I Learn Collocations to Get IELTS Band 8 Score

Mastering collocations is essential to achieve an IELTS Band 8 score, as they significantly contribute to the Lexical Resource criterion. Here are some strategies to learn collocations effectively:

  1.  Understand Collocations: Recognize that collocations are words frequently occurring together in a language. For example, 'make a decision' or 'fast food' are common collocations in English.
  2. Use Official Resources: Utilize official IELTS resources to learn collocations. The IELTS website provides articles and examples of collocations that can help you understand how they are used in context.

  3. Practice With Real Examples: Look for collocations in authentic English texts, such as newspapers, books, and academic articles. This will help you see how collocations are used naturally by native speakers.

  4. Learn in Context: Instead of memorizing lists of words, learn collocations within the context of sentences or paragraphs. This will help you remember them better and use them correctly.

  5. Use Flashcards: Create flashcards with collocations on one side and their meanings or example sentences on the other. Regularly review these flashcards to reinforce your memory.

  6. Engage in Conversations: Practice using collocations in conversation with native speakers or through language exchange programs. This will give you practical experience and help you become more fluent.

  7. Write Regularly: Incorporate new collocations into your writing exercises. Writing essays or journal entries using these collocations can improve your ability to use them accurately.

  8. Review and Reflect: After practicing, review the collocations you've learned and reflect on how they can be applied in different contexts.

Remember, consistency is key when learning new language elements like collocations. Regular practice and exposure to the language will help you achieve a higher band score for Lexical Resource.

List of 30 Important Collocations for IELTS Writing Task 2

Here is a list of important collocations for your IELTS preparation from various genres like sports, employment, traveling, environment, etc.

  1. Performance Enhancers
  2. Olympic Event
  3. Predictive Powers
  4. Financial Incentives
  5. Save Environment
  6. Internal Politics
  7. Understanding of Concept
  8. Middle-income Countries
  9. Patriarchal Society
  10. Developing World
  11. Internship Experience
  12. Qualified Graduates
  13. Refugee Group
  14. International Community
  15. Western Countries
  16. International Affairs
  17. Brainstorming
  18. Wars and Civil Unrest
  19. Secondary Education
  20. Energy Efficiency
  21. Business Models
  22. Training Academy
  23. Cultural Understanding
  24. Business Opportunities
  25. Eye Witness
  26. Foreign Culture
  27. Bedroom Culture
  28. Social Skills
  29. High Cholesterol 
  30. Addictive Nature

Examples of Using Collocation for IELTS

  • IELTS examiner: Can you tell us about your morning regime? 
  • Candidate: Well, I maintain a healthy schedule. I usually wake up by 8 in the morning. I have my breakfast, do my dishes, get dressed up, then leave around 9 in the morning
  • Tell us about your plans after completion of your study? 
  • Well, I plan to get a job at a reputed firm. After which, I wish to get married in 2-3 years and settle down with my family

Types of Collocations in the English language

  • Adverb + Adjective
  • Noun+ Noun
  • Verb+ Noun
  • Collocations that come with have, make and take 
  • Adjective Or Noun
  • Verb+ Adverb
  • Noun+ Verb

Here are examples:

  1. Adverb + Adjective
  • I was utterly shocked by the way he behaved with me 
  • Leaving the examination in the middle was a stupid decision taken 
  • I am totally satisfied with a band 8 in IELTS
  • It is pretty worrying to find the new rules imposed on traveling
  • She is extremely interested in meeting me
  • I booked an elite decorated apartment for the birthday party
  • Are you completely aware of what you are doing to yourself? 

2. Adjective + Noun

  • The heavy snowfall got us delayed in reaching our destination
  • Considering his health conditions, he was advised to walk for 30 minutes every day
  • I always found my sister to show a keen interest when it comes to studying in the US
  • It was a bit of invaluable advice that I did not use for the examination
  • It was an amazing idea to visit a foreign destination during Christmas

3. Noun + Noun

  • She paid huge money for a round of soft drinks
  • They get paid to work in the service industry
  • Without a building permit, you cannot build the property

Important Resources to Read About IELTS:

IELTS Speaking Topics IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion Essay IELTS
Important Vocabulary for IELTS IELTS Band Score Validity of IELTS Score
IELTS Reading Section IELTS Essay Writing Samples Essay on Historical Places
IELTS Test Report form Benefits of IELTS Coaching How to Cancel IELTS Exam

Master IELTS for FREE

Unlock your potential with our expertly crafted IELTS FREE Course designed to help you achieve your desired band score. Don't miss this unique opportunity to start your journey towards global success.

In this Course you will find:

  • Expert instructions from experienced instructor.
  • Comprehensive coverage of all IELTS modules.
  • Flexible, self-paced online learning.
  • Interactive lessons and practice tests.
  • Exclusive tips and strategies.

Download E-Books for IELTS Preparation

IELTS IDIOMS GUIDE
ielts sample essays

4. Noun + Verb

  • Her mother paid her a compliment for singing a song so well
  • All the applicants were doubtful about the question that was discussed during the last session
  • It was the 50th anniversary of his parents, so he took them to watch a movie
  • The government is very serious when it comes to the rising level of pollution
  • I made a late appointment to see my oncologist
  • Non-native English speakers always make an effort to get more than 8 bands in IELTS

5. Verb + Noun

  • The prisoner was hanged for committing murder
  • Get something to drink for yourself
  • Always get some time for yourself to enjoy
  • The nurse died out of poverty 

6. Verb + Adverb

  • The hotel supervisor complained bitterly regarding the bad behavior of the manager
  • Guests should be given warm welcome whenever there is a party
  • Rohit spoke loudly and shouted at his father for the entire time over the call. 
  • Jack whispered very softly in Jill’s ears

7. Collocation with have, take, or make

  • Make mistake
  • Have a conversation
  • Have a job interview
  • Have a headache
  • Take a shower
  • Take care
  • Take a survey
  • Take advice
  • Take medicine
  • Make a wish
  • Make salad
  • Make breakfast
  • Take a picture
  • Have a baby
  • Have an illness

Common Mistakes: Using Collocations in IELTS Writing Test

When preparing for the Writing Test, avoiding common mistakes in Collocation for IELTS is essential. Here are some key points to remember:

Avoid repetition: Use synonyms and antonyms to demonstrate a broad vocabulary.

Use formal language: Employ formal language in all tasks to show proficiency.

Use precise vocabulary: Choose specific words for clarity and precision.

Avoid abbreviations: Write out full words to ensure clear communication.

By focusing on these areas, you can enhance your language skills and improve your IELTS scores. Remember effective use of collocations is a sign of language mastery.

Importance of Collocation For IELTS Applicants

  • While taking the IELTS test, non-native English-speaking applicants should prioritize sounding like native English speakers. The proper usage of collocation will surely keep the language flow natural so that the interviewer can comprehend everything you speak. 
  • While taking the IELTS speaking test, applicants use collocations to draft the answers with the right words to express themselves. Collocations enhance the vocabulary so that you can express emotions or situations with different alternatives. In a way, you get to deliver winning answers. 
  • Students need to be sure about the collocations they use while taking the speaking test, to improve IELTS band and English language proficiency. C stands for collocations, and that is an important marking criterion. 
  • Speak naturally with collocations. They make your English more idiomatic and sound similar and proficient like a native speaker. 
  • Collocations improve oral communication skills, comprehension, reading speed, and fluency in non-native English speakers, and eventually, they perform well in the IELTS test.

Read More About IELTS:

How to Prepare for IELTS at Home Without Coaching

Causes and Effects of Obesity IELTS Essay

Business and Money IELTS Essay

Advantages and Disadvantages of Tourism IELTS Essay

How to Write Conclusion in Writing Task 2

Art is Considered an Important Part of a Society IELTS Essay

Is Computer Based IELTS Easier

How to Prepare for Computer Based IELTS

IELTS Slot Booking

How to Check IELTS Revaluation Results

How to Get IELTS Certificate

How to Download IELTS Score Card

Download IELTS Sample Papers

Reading sample test
Writing sample test
Ielts sample paper1

How to Use Collocations Correctly? 

Appropriate collocations improve the IELTS score. Applicants do not need to learn the long list of collocations to do well in the IELTS examination. There are some rules that you need to apply to use the collocations while communicating correctly. It should be included in your vocabulary learning schedule. As you come in contact with a new word that can be a part of your IELTS vocabulary, note it down and start looking for other words that will go well and relate to that word. This way you will start building up a rich vocabulary with collocations. It is important for non-native and English speakers. The words aren’t new, but the way it is used will be different when you use collocations accurately. For proper collocation usage, it is essential to use common words in different ways.

Collocations bring natural flow to the English language and make it more idiomatic. You need to understand the right words that can be used together to make sense. If you are speaking incorrectly, any native speaker will be able to pinpoint it. When you learn a simple word like ‘to have, you will just not learn the word ‘have’, instead you learn chunks of the English language. You will be learning all the words that can be used with the word ‘have.’ This is how you can use collocations in IELTS speaking and writing sections. To have a rich vocabulary, you need to learn using collocation for IELTS instead of learning words in an isolated manner.

Examples of More Collocation

Have Make Do Take
Have food Make food  Do a favor Take a break
Have a drink  Make progress Do nothing  Take rest 
Have lunch Make money Do the cocking  Take your seat
Have sympathy Make furniture  Do your best Take notes 
Have rest  Make a noise  Do your homework  Take an exam
Have a holiday Make trouble Do your best  Take a taxi 

Some More Examples of Collocations in Sentences

  • He is excellent at planning parties
  • The teacher was surprised at the student’s question
  • He has lost his belief in God
  • There was no change in the patient’s health overnight
  • She wanted to see if she could get a job with us
  • I might take a lesson from you
  • My goals were to go back to school and get a degree

Recommended Reads:

IELTS Score for UK IELTS Score for USA Validity of IELTS Score
IELTS Speaking Topics IELTS Reading Tips IELTS Preparation Books
Types of IELTS Exam IELTS Academic vs General IELTS Exam Pattern

Learn More about Study Abroad

What is Scholarship

Learn all about the scholarships like types of scholarships and how to get a one

Scholarship

Provincial Nominee Program Canada

Learn all about Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Canada

PNP Program Canada

Fulbright Scholarship

Learn about the eligibility, benefits, procedure etc about Fulbright Scholarships

Fulbright Scholarship

Popular Study Abroad Destinations

Study in Canada

Study in Canada

Study in Canada & Save up to 20 Lakhs with upGrad Abroad

Study in Canada
Study in Australia

Study in Australia

Study in Australia & Save up to 20 Lakhs with upGrad Abroad

Study in Australia
Study in USA

Study in USA

Study in the USA & Save up to 20 Lakhs with upGrad Abroad

Study in USA

FAQs

How is collocation used in the IELTS writing section?

Collocation is the combination of two or more words to make a proper phrase. Correct collocation is used in the IELTS writing section to improve scores. As per the IELTS band requirement, applicants should use less common lexical terms with some awareness of collocations.

How are collocations used in the IELTS speaking section?

Collocations are used in the IELTS speaking section to enhance the sentences used in communication. Collocations bring a natural flow to the English language and make it more idiomatic.

Here is an example of collocation used in the IELTS speaking test: 

Examiner: How do you get to work?

Candidate: Mostly, I get to work by bus. However, if I’m late, I take a cab. 

What are collocation examples of sentences?

Here are some examples of collocation in sentences:

  1. My daughter does her homework during the evening.
  2. Our teacher gave us some advice on taking mocks.
  3. Please feel free to enjoy the wedding.
  4. We need to find a replacement for Tara as soon as possible.
     

Why are collocations important in the IELTS exam?

Collocations are important in the IELTS examination to score well. If you aim to score high in the IELTS speaking and writing sections, you must use collocations accurately.

What are the basic collocations?

Basic collocations are pairs or groups of words commonly appearing together in language. For instance, the adjectives 'fast,' 'quick,' and 'rapid' are often collocated with the noun movement to describe speed.

What are the rules of collocations?

There are no strict rules governing the use of collocations; they are simply word combinations that are commonly recognized and carry social significance.

What is a strong collocation?

In a strong collocation, word combinations are tightly bound and typically unalterable. 'Blonde hair' is an example of a strong collocation.

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

Sunita Kadian, co-founder and Academic Head at Yuno Learning is an expert in IELTS and English communication. With a background in competitive exam preparation (IELTS, GMAT, CAT, TOEFL), interview prep, and corporate soft skills training, she has adapted these programs for the Yuno platform. Her dedication and commitment earned high praise from students, especially for her public speaking and advanced speaking English courses. Sunita's mastery of language nuances and articulation makes her a favorite among IELTS students. She holds a Postgraduate degree in English Literature, a B.Ed., and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations.

See More

Important Exams

IELTS Exam PTE ExamGMAT Exam TOEFL Exam SAT ExamACT ExamGRE Exam Duolingo English Test

Important Resources for IELTS

IELTS Band Score ChartHow to get 8 band in IELTSTypes of IELTS ExamAverage IELTS ScoresIELTS Score for USAIELTS Reading Band ScoreIELTS Bar GraphWriting Task 1 Line GraphCollocation for IELTSIELTS Reading TipsIELTS Speaking TopicsIELTS Writing Task 2Opinion Essay IELTSImportant Vocabulary for IELTSIELTS Band ScoreValidity of IELTS ScoreIELTS Reading SectionIELTS Essay Writing SamplesEssay on Historical PlacesHow to Postpone IELTS ExamIELTS Score for New Zealand PRHow to Make Complex Sentences in IELTSIELTS Test Report formHow Many Times IELTS Exam is Conducted in a YearBenefits of IELTS CoachingAgree or Disagree Essay IELTSHow Much Time is Required to Prepare for IELTSCommon Spelling Mistakes in IELTSHow to Crack IELTS in first AttemptImportant Vocabulary for IELTSHow to Cancel IELTS ExamWhy IELTS Exam is RequiredIELTS Exam DatesIELTS Online CoachingIELTS Full FormMBA in Germany Without IELTSStudy in UK Without IELTSStudy in USA Without IELTSMS in Germany Without IELTSStudy in Europe Without IELTSUniversities in Canada Without IELTSStudy in Singapore Without IELTSStudy in Ireland Without IELTSIELTS Score For UKIELTS Score For USAIELTS For AustraliaIELTS Score for New ZealandUS Universities Accepting Only IELTS Score For MSIELTS Preparation

Free Study Abroad Counselling

Verify Your Number for a Free Session with Experts !

+91

Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹40000

Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.

TRENDING SEARCHES

Editor's Pick

Australia

Canada

UK

USA

Exam

Other Countries

Disclaimer

The above tips are the Author's experiences. upGrad does not guarantee scores or admissions.