Guide To Avoid Common Vocabulary Mistakes in PTE

Avoid Common Vocabulary Mistakes in PTE

Vocabulary as an Enabling Skill

Vocabulary is considered an enabling skill in PTE Academic. The enabling skills are used to rate performance in the productive skills of Speaking and Writing. The enabling skills measured include:

Grammar
Oral fluency
Pronunciation
Spelling
Vocabulary
Written discourse

A strong command of PTE vocabulary contributes significantly to the enabling scores, particularly in Writing and Speaking, where clear expression and accurate word choice are essential.

Common Vocabulary Mistakes in PTE

1. Using Incorrect Word Forms

Some words have different forms for different uses. Using the wrong form can make your response grammatically incorrect.

Incorrect	Correct	Task
He is very success in his career.	He is very successful in his career.	Speaking & Writing
The team decision to proceed was wise.	The team’s decision to proceed was wise.	Reading
She quickly made a decision.	She made a quick decision.	Writing

2. Confusing Similar Words

Certain words sound or look similar but have different meanings. Using them incorrectly changes the meaning of your response.

Incorrect	Correct	Task
The company will rise prices.	The company will raise prices.	Reading & Writing
The doctor gave me a prescribe.	The doctor gave me a prescription.	Listening
The event had a big affect on me.	The event had a big effect on me.	Writing

3. Overusing General Words

Using broad or vague words reduces clarity and specificity.

Overused Word	Better Alternative	Task
Good	Excellent, Exceptional, Outstanding	Writing & Speaking
Bad	Harmful, Detrimental, Unfavorable	Writing & Speaking
Make	Construct, Generate, Develop	Writing
Get	Obtain, Acquire, Attain	Reading & Writing

4. Misusing Prepositions

Prepositions are commonly misused in PTE Writing and Speaking tasks.

Incorrect	Correct	Task
She is good in mathematics.	She is good at mathematics.	Speaking, Writing, Reading
He is interested on science.	He is interested in science.	Writing, Speaking
The meeting is scheduled on Monday.	The meeting is scheduled for Monday.	Reading & Writing

5. Using Informal or Colloquial Words

PTE is an academic test, so casual expressions should be avoided.

Informal	Formal	Task
Kids	Children	Speaking & Writing
Gonna	Going to	Speaking
A lot of	Many, Several	Writing & Reading
Stuff	Items, Materials	Writing

6. Failing to Use Academic Vocabulary

Academic vocabulary enhances responses in PTE Writing and Speaking.

General Word	Academic Alternative	Task
Say	Assert, State, Express	Writing & Speaking
Think	Analyze, Evaluate, Consider	Writing & Speaking
Help	Assist, Support, Facilitate	Writing & Speaking

How to Avoid Vocabulary Mistakes in PTE

1. Expand Your Vocabulary

Use flashcards, vocabulary lists, and online tools like Quizlet to learn important vocabulary for PTE.

2. Practice in Context

Memorizing words is not enough. Practice using them in PTE Writing and Speaking tasks.

3. Read and Listen Actively

Engage with academic materials such as news articles, TED Talks, and educational podcasts to recognize PTE exam vocabulary in use.

4. Use a Vocabulary Journal

Keep a record of new words, their meanings, and example sentences to reinforce learning.

5. Review and Self-Test

Regularly test yourself with PTE vocabulary quizzes and practice exercises to reinforce retention.

Conclusion

Avoiding common vocabulary mistakes is crucial for achieving a high score in PTE Academic. By using precise, academic vocabulary and practicing correct usage, you can enhance your PTE Writing, Speaking, Reading, and Listening responses.