Academic Word List
Essential vocabulary for academic reading, writing, and research across all disciplines.
About the Academic Word List
The Academic Word List (AWL) contains high-frequency vocabulary that appears across various academic disciplines. Mastering these words is crucial for success in higher education, as they account for approximately 10% of words in academic texts but are not typically found in general English vocabulary lists.
Analysis & Research
analyze
Examine methodically in detail
Example: We need to analyze the research data carefully.
approach
A method or way of doing something
Example: The study uses a qualitative approach.
assess
Evaluate or estimate the nature, ability, or quality
Example: Teachers assess student performance regularly.
assume
Accept something as true without proof
Example: We cannot assume causation from correlation.
data
Facts and statistics collected for analysis
Example: The data supports our hypothesis.
define
State the exact meaning of something
Example: First, we must define our terms clearly.
derive
Obtain something from a source
Example: These conclusions derive from extensive research.
evidence
Information indicating whether something is true
Example: The evidence suggests a strong correlation.
indicate
Point out or show
Example: The findings indicate a need for further study.
interpret
Explain the meaning of information
Example: We must interpret the results cautiously.
investigate
Carry out systematic inquiry
Example: Researchers investigate various phenomena.
method
A particular procedure for accomplishing something
Example: The scientific method ensures reliable results.
research
Systematic investigation to establish facts
Example: Their research contributes to the field significantly.
theory
A system of ideas explaining something
Example: The theory has been tested extensively.
14 words in this category
Academic Writing & Communication
acknowledge
Accept or admit the existence of
Example: The author acknowledges the study limitations.
cite
Quote as evidence or authority
Example: Always cite your sources properly.
clarify
Make a statement less confused
Example: Let me clarify my previous point.
coherent
Logical and consistent
Example: The argument must be coherent throughout.
conclude
Arrive at a judgment by reasoning
Example: We conclude that the hypothesis is supported.
demonstrate
Clearly show the existence of
Example: The study demonstrates significant effects.
emphasize
Give special importance to
Example: The author emphasizes the need for caution.
explicit
Stated clearly and in detail
Example: Make your thesis statement explicit.
illustrate
Explain or make clear by examples
Example: The graph illustrates the trend clearly.
imply
Suggest without being directly stated
Example: The results imply broader applications.
infer
Deduce from evidence and reasoning
Example: We can infer causation from the pattern.
justify
Show to be right or reasonable
Example: You must justify your methodological choices.
paragraph
A distinct section of writing
Example: Each paragraph should have one main idea.
summarize
Give a brief statement of main points
Example: Summarize the key findings in your conclusion.
14 words in this category
Concepts & Ideas
abstract
Existing in thought rather than physical form
Example: Justice is an abstract concept.
concept
An abstract idea or general notion
Example: The concept of democracy has evolved.
context
Circumstances forming setting for an event
Example: Understanding requires historical context.
factor
A circumstance contributing to a result
Example: Multiple factors influence student success.
function
An activity or purpose natural to something
Example: The primary function of education is learning.
hypothesis
A proposed explanation made on limited evidence
Example: The hypothesis will be tested empirically.
principle
A fundamental truth or proposition
Example: The principle of equality is foundational.
process
A series of actions toward a result
Example: The writing process requires multiple drafts.
significant
Sufficiently great to be worthy of attention
Example: The results show significant improvement.
structure
The arrangement of parts in something
Example: Essay structure affects readability.
theme
A subject or topic of discourse
Example: The main theme explores identity.
variable
An element that may change
Example: Control for confounding variables.
12 words in this category
Evaluation & Argument
alternative
One of two or more available possibilities
Example: Consider alternative explanations.
argue
Give reasons for or against something
Example: The paper argues for policy reform.
criteria
Principles or standards for judgment
Example: Establish clear evaluation criteria.
critique
Detailed analysis and assessment
Example: The critique examines methodological flaws.
evaluate
Form an idea of the value of
Example: Evaluate the strength of the argument.
perspective
A particular attitude toward something
Example: Consider multiple perspectives on the issue.
relevant
Closely connected or appropriate
Example: Include only relevant information.
valid
Having a sound basis in logic or fact
Example: Ensure your argument is valid.
8 words in this category
Relationships & Patterns
compare
Estimate similarity or dissimilarity
Example: Compare the two theoretical frameworks.
contrast
Differ strikingly when compared
Example: Contrast classical and modern approaches.
correspond
Have a close similarity or be analogous
Example: The results correspond to predictions.
differentiate
Recognize or ascertain difference
Example: Differentiate between correlation and causation.
distinguish
Recognize or treat as different
Example: Distinguish fact from opinion.
parallel
Similar and happening at the same time
Example: Parallel developments occurred in both fields.
similar
Having a resemblance in appearance
Example: The studies report similar findings.
7 words in this category
Academic Processes
acquire
Come to possess or gain
Example: Students acquire skills through practice.
apply
Put to practical use
Example: Apply theoretical concepts to real situations.
constitute
Be a part of a whole
Example: These elements constitute the framework.
create
Bring something into existence
Example: Create a comprehensive literature review.
establish
Set up on a firm or permanent basis
Example: Establish clear research objectives.
generate
Cause to arise or come about
Example: The discussion generated new ideas.
implement
Put a decision or plan into effect
Example: Implement the proposed recommendations.
maintain
Cause to continue in the same state
Example: Maintain academic integrity throughout.
obtain
Get, acquire, or secure
Example: Obtain permission before using copyrighted material.
require
Need for a particular purpose
Example: Academic writing requires precision.
10 words in this category
How to Use Academic Vocabulary
For Students:
- Read actively: Identify academic words in your textbooks and articles
- Keep a vocabulary journal: Record new words with definitions and examples
- Practice in context: Use these words in your essays and discussions
- Learn word families: Study related forms (analyze, analysis, analytical, analyzer)
- Focus on collocations: Learn which words commonly appear together
Why These Words Matter:
- They appear frequently across all academic disciplines
- They help express complex ideas precisely
- They improve reading comprehension of academic texts
- They enhance the quality and credibility of academic writing
- They are essential for standardized tests (SAT, GRE, IELTS, TOEFL)
Study Tips:
- Learn 5-10 new academic words per week
- Create example sentences from your field of study
- Use flashcards or spaced repetition software
- Notice how these words are used by academic writers
- Test yourself by using the words in your own writing