TOEFL Vocabulary: Academic Word List & Study Guide
For a TOEFL score of 80+, you need active knowledge of approximately 5,000–6,000 English words. The Academic Word List (AWL) covers 570 word families that appear across TOEFL reading passages and are expected in Speaking and Writing. This guide covers words by category: cause-effect, contrast-concession, academic verbs, and describing change — with examples and multilingual cognate tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What vocabulary do I need for TOEFL?
TOEFL uses Academic English vocabulary from the Academic Word List (AWL) — 570 word families covering approximately 10% of words in academic texts. Key categories: cause-effect words, contrast words, academic verbs, and discipline-specific terms.
How many vocabulary words do I need for TOEFL?
For TOEFL 80+, aim for 5,000–6,000 words active knowledge. For TOEFL 100+, aim for 8,000–10,000 words.
What is the best way to learn TOEFL vocabulary?
Learn words in context (not isolated lists). Read academic English daily. Use spaced repetition apps (Anki). Practice new words immediately in writing.
How can Korean and Japanese speakers learn TOEFL vocabulary faster?
Many academic English words have cognates in Korean (Hanja) and Japanese (Kanji): hypothesis=가설/仮説, analysis=분석/分析, structure=구조/構造. Build on these existing connections to accelerate learning.