PTE Academic Write Essay: Step-by-Step 80+ Score Tutorial (LingExam | Ultra-Interactive)
Welcome! In this advanced tutorial, you’ll master the PTE Academic Write Essay task, focusing on the 'Agree or Disagree' (Opinion) question type.
Sample PTE Task:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? “Governments should invest more in public transportation than in building new roads.”
Follow each step below. Hover on any step to highlight and reveal Band 8+ strategies and tips.
Sample PTE Task:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? “Governments should invest more in public transportation than in building new roads.”
Follow each step below. Hover on any step to highlight and reveal Band 8+ strategies and tips.
How to Answer PTE Academic Write Essay: 'Agree or Disagree' in 12 Crucial Steps
1
Carefully read the prompt and identify the topic, the instruction (“agree or disagree”), and any keywords. Here, the focus is on government investment, public transportation, and building roads. Make sure you understand what the question requires—a clear opinion on the issue.
2
Decide whether you agree or disagree with the statement before you start writing. Your position must be clear and consistent throughout the essay. For example, if you agree, think about two strong reasons why public transport is a better investment.
3
Think of at least two major reasons and examples to support your position. Write notes: e.g., public transport reduces traffic, is eco-friendly, supports low-income people. Organise your reasons logically for your paragraphs.
4
Use a 4-paragraph structure:
- Introduction (paraphrase + thesis statement)
- Body 1: First reason/example
- Body 2: Second reason/example
- Conclusion (summarise opinion and main ideas)
5
Start your introduction by rephrasing the task using your own words. Example: “There is considerable debate about whether governments should prioritise public transportation or invest more in constructing new roads.”
6
End the introduction with a clear thesis statement expressing your view. Example: “I strongly agree that greater investment in public transport is more beneficial for society.”
7
Present your first main reason with supporting evidence or an example. Example: “Investing in public transportation helps reduce traffic congestion, which saves time and lowers pollution in urban areas.”
8
Present your second main reason and expand with examples or data. Example: “Public transport is more affordable and accessible for lower-income citizens, promoting equality and social inclusion.”
9
Mention the other side briefly to show balance. Example: “Although some argue that new roads ease traffic in the short term, such measures often lead to increased car use and further congestion.”
10
Summarise your main points and restate your opinion using different words. Example: “In conclusion, I firmly believe that government funding should favour public transportation as it benefits both the environment and society.”
11
Use advanced grammar, academic vocabulary, and linking phrases. Connect your ideas: “Moreover, Consequently, On the other hand, In addition, For example.”
12
Check for grammar, spelling, word count, and logical flow. Aim for 200–300 words, make sure every paragraph supports your opinion, and avoid repetition.
Example Notes & Advanced Tips
Example Introduction: “There is ongoing debate about whether public money should go to mass transport or new roads. I firmly support the former for environmental and social reasons.”
Example Topic Sentence: “Investing in public transport helps to solve urban congestion and environmental issues.”
Example Conclusion: “Thus, I am convinced that governments should allocate more funds to public transportation for a sustainable future.”
Example Topic Sentence: “Investing in public transport helps to solve urban congestion and environmental issues.”
Example Conclusion: “Thus, I am convinced that governments should allocate more funds to public transportation for a sustainable future.”
PTE Academic Write Essay
Task:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?
“Governments should invest more in public transportation than in building new roads.”
Write 200–300 words. Present a clear, well-organized essay, fully explaining your viewpoint and supporting it with reasons and examples.
Your Essay:
Tip: Make sure your essay is clearly organised, supports your opinion, and checks all grammar before submitting!
Universal PTE Academic Essay Template: Agree or Disagree
Use this paragraph-by-paragraph and sentence-by-sentence template for any “Agree or Disagree” essay. Memorise the blue text, fill in your topic details where shown, and adapt to the specific task!
Tap/click each part to show or hide the template.
Tap/click each part to show or hide the template.
Introduction ▼
Sentence 1 (Paraphrase the Task):
There is ongoing debate about whether [rephrase topic, e.g., governments should invest in public transport rather than new roads].
Sentence 2 (State Your Opinion Clearly):
I strongly [agree/disagree] that [state the main opinion].
There is ongoing debate about whether [rephrase topic, e.g., governments should invest in public transport rather than new roads].
Sentence 2 (State Your Opinion Clearly):
I strongly [agree/disagree] that [state the main opinion].
Body Paragraph 1: First Main Reason ▼
Sentence 1 (Topic Sentence):
Firstly, [reason 1: e.g., public transport reduces congestion].
Sentence 2–3 (Explain & Example):
This is because [explain reason 1]. For example, [give a real-world or hypothetical example].
Sentence 4 (Result/Extension):
As a result, [show positive effect/result].
Firstly, [reason 1: e.g., public transport reduces congestion].
Sentence 2–3 (Explain & Example):
This is because [explain reason 1]. For example, [give a real-world or hypothetical example].
Sentence 4 (Result/Extension):
As a result, [show positive effect/result].
Body Paragraph 2: Second Main Reason ▼
Sentence 1 (Topic Sentence):
Secondly, [reason 2: e.g., public transport is more eco-friendly].
Sentence 2–3 (Explain & Example):
For instance, [give details or evidence]. This leads to [benefit: e.g., reduced emissions, better air quality].
Secondly, [reason 2: e.g., public transport is more eco-friendly].
Sentence 2–3 (Explain & Example):
For instance, [give details or evidence]. This leads to [benefit: e.g., reduced emissions, better air quality].
Counterargument (Optional) ▼
Sentence 1 (Acknowledge Other View):
Although some people believe that [counterargument, e.g., new roads are necessary],
Sentence 2 (Respond/Refute):
I contend that [why your view is stronger or more important].
Although some people believe that [counterargument, e.g., new roads are necessary],
Sentence 2 (Respond/Refute):
I contend that [why your view is stronger or more important].
Conclusion ▼
Sentence 1 (Restate Opinion & Summarise Reasons):
In conclusion, I firmly believe that [restate main opinion, summarise key reasons].
In conclusion, I firmly believe that [restate main opinion, summarise key reasons].
Band 9+ Model Answer & Step-by-Step Explanations
Read this Band 9+ sample essay, sentence-by-sentence as shown in the universal template above. Click/tap each section to reveal the model answer and a detailed breakdown of what makes each sentence high-scoring for PTE Academic.
Introduction ▼
Sentence 1 (Paraphrase Task):
There is ongoing debate about whether governments should invest more in public transportation or allocate resources to building new roads.
There is ongoing debate about whether governments should invest more in public transportation or allocate resources to building new roads.
Explanation: This opening paraphrases the prompt using academic collocations ("allocate resources") and sets the essay topic clearly. A strong paraphrase immediately demonstrates lexical range and understanding.
Sentence 2 (State Opinion Clearly):
I strongly agree that increasing investment in public transport provides far greater benefits to society as a whole.
I strongly agree that increasing investment in public transport provides far greater benefits to society as a whole.
Explanation: Clear, direct opinion (thesis) using "strongly agree," setting up for a focused, unified argument. Academic phrasing ("provides far greater benefits to society") increases the score.
Body Paragraph 1: First Main Reason ▼
Sentence 1 (Topic Sentence):
Firstly, investing in public transportation helps reduce traffic congestion in major cities.
Firstly, investing in public transportation helps reduce traffic congestion in major cities.
Explanation: Concise topic sentence with direct link to the prompt and use of academic vocabulary ("traffic congestion"). Clear topic focus earns high marks for coherence.
Sentence 2 (Explain Reason):
When people have access to efficient buses, trains, or subways, fewer individuals rely on private cars.
When people have access to efficient buses, trains, or subways, fewer individuals rely on private cars.
Explanation: Explains the reason logically. Linking with "when" and advanced phrasing ("rely on private cars") adds variety and sophistication.
Sentence 3 (Example):
For example, cities like Amsterdam and Tokyo have invested heavily in public transport systems, resulting in smoother traffic flow and less pollution.
For example, cities like Amsterdam and Tokyo have invested heavily in public transport systems, resulting in smoother traffic flow and less pollution.
Explanation: Real-world examples with specific places impress examiners and support the point. Complex structures ("have invested..., resulting in...") show flexibility.
Sentence 4 (Result):
As a result, daily commutes are faster and the overall quality of urban life improves.
As a result, daily commutes are faster and the overall quality of urban life improves.
Explanation: "As a result" introduces a logical consequence, summarizing the benefit. Academic phrasing and precise vocabulary ("overall quality of urban life") boost the lexical score.
Body Paragraph 2: Second Main Reason ▼
Sentence 1 (Topic Sentence):
Secondly, public transportation is more environmentally sustainable than building new roads.
Secondly, public transportation is more environmentally sustainable than building new roads.
Explanation: "Environmentally sustainable" is advanced and accurate for formal writing. This introduces the paragraph focus with a direct link to public transport's benefits.
Sentence 2 (Example):
For instance, modern electric trains and buses produce lower carbon emissions than the thousands of additional cars that new roads attract.
For instance, modern electric trains and buses produce lower carbon emissions than the thousands of additional cars that new roads attract.
Explanation: Concrete comparison and specific data show depth. Advanced vocabulary ("carbon emissions," "attract") and cause-effect logic are rewarded.
Sentence 3 (Result):
This leads to cleaner air, which benefits public health and helps combat climate change.
This leads to cleaner air, which benefits public health and helps combat climate change.
Explanation: Precise and sophisticated result. Linking "which benefits..." forms a complex sentence, raising the grammar score. Task response is full.
Counterargument (Optional) ▼
Sentence 1 (Acknowledge Opposite View):
Although some argue that building more roads can ease traffic congestion in the short term,
Although some argue that building more roads can ease traffic congestion in the short term,
Explanation: Addressing the counterargument demonstrates balance. Phrases like "in the short term" are hedging devices, a mark of advanced writing.
Sentence 2 (Refute/Respond):
I contend that such policies usually lead to even more private car use and worsen long-term congestion and pollution problems.
I contend that such policies usually lead to even more private car use and worsen long-term congestion and pollution problems.
Explanation: Firmly refuting the counterargument, with academic connectors ("such policies," "long-term congestion"). Strong modal language ("I contend that") and precise logic.
Conclusion ▼
Sentence 1 (Restate Opinion & Summarise):
In conclusion, I firmly believe that government funding should prioritise public transportation, as it offers greater social, environmental, and economic advantages for society.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that government funding should prioritise public transportation, as it offers greater social, environmental, and economic advantages for society.
Explanation: The final paragraph rephrases the opinion and summarises the reasons ("social, environmental, and economic advantages"), rounding off the essay with maximum task completion.
Full Band 9 Model Essay (Copy-Ready)
There is ongoing debate about whether governments should invest more in public transportation or allocate resources to building new roads.
I strongly agree that increasing investment in public transport provides far greater benefits to society as a whole.
Firstly, investing in public transportation helps reduce traffic congestion in major cities. When people have access to efficient buses, trains, or subways, fewer individuals rely on private cars. For example, cities like Amsterdam and Tokyo have invested heavily in public transport systems, resulting in smoother traffic flow and less pollution. As a result, daily commutes are faster and the overall quality of urban life improves.
Secondly, public transportation is more environmentally sustainable than building new roads. For instance, modern electric trains and buses produce lower carbon emissions than the thousands of additional cars that new roads attract. This leads to cleaner air, which benefits public health and helps combat climate change.
Although some argue that building more roads can ease traffic congestion in the short term, I contend that such policies usually lead to even more private car use and worsen long-term congestion and pollution problems.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that government funding should prioritise public transportation, as it offers greater social, environmental, and economic advantages for society.
I strongly agree that increasing investment in public transport provides far greater benefits to society as a whole.
Firstly, investing in public transportation helps reduce traffic congestion in major cities. When people have access to efficient buses, trains, or subways, fewer individuals rely on private cars. For example, cities like Amsterdam and Tokyo have invested heavily in public transport systems, resulting in smoother traffic flow and less pollution. As a result, daily commutes are faster and the overall quality of urban life improves.
Secondly, public transportation is more environmentally sustainable than building new roads. For instance, modern electric trains and buses produce lower carbon emissions than the thousands of additional cars that new roads attract. This leads to cleaner air, which benefits public health and helps combat climate change.
Although some argue that building more roads can ease traffic congestion in the short term, I contend that such policies usually lead to even more private car use and worsen long-term congestion and pollution problems.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that government funding should prioritise public transportation, as it offers greater social, environmental, and economic advantages for society.
20 Crucial Words for This PTE Essay
Master these advanced academic words used in the model answer and topic. Tap/click each word for details, example, and usage notes. Practise these to improve your score!
allocate ▼
Phonetics: /ˈæl.ə.keɪt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: allocate (something) to (something/someone)
Definition: To give something, especially money or time, officially to someone or for a particular purpose.
Example: “The government should allocate more funds to public transport projects.” (means: assign money to a purpose)
Common synonym: assign, distribute
Common mistakes: Using "allocate for" instead of "allocate to"; spelling ("alllocate").
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: allocate (something) to (something/someone)
Definition: To give something, especially money or time, officially to someone or for a particular purpose.
Example: “The government should allocate more funds to public transport projects.” (means: assign money to a purpose)
Common synonym: assign, distribute
Common mistakes: Using "allocate for" instead of "allocate to"; spelling ("alllocate").
congestion ▼
Phonetics: /kənˈdʒes.tʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: traffic/urban congestion
Definition: The state of being crowded and blocked, especially by vehicles.
Example: “Investing in public transport helps reduce congestion in cities.” (means: less crowding, smoother traffic)
Common synonym: crowding, blockage
Common mistakes: Spelling ("conjeston"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: traffic/urban congestion
Definition: The state of being crowded and blocked, especially by vehicles.
Example: “Investing in public transport helps reduce congestion in cities.” (means: less crowding, smoother traffic)
Common synonym: crowding, blockage
Common mistakes: Spelling ("conjeston"); using as a verb.
sustainable ▼
Phonetics: /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: sustainable development/transport/solution
Definition: Able to continue over a long period without harming the environment.
Example: “Public transport is more sustainable than building new roads.” (means: better for future, eco-friendly)
Common synonym: eco-friendly, long-lasting
Common mistakes: Using "sustain" as adjective; spelling ("sustainible").
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: sustainable development/transport/solution
Definition: Able to continue over a long period without harming the environment.
Example: “Public transport is more sustainable than building new roads.” (means: better for future, eco-friendly)
Common synonym: eco-friendly, long-lasting
Common mistakes: Using "sustain" as adjective; spelling ("sustainible").
infrastructure ▼
Phonetics: /ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ (BrE), /-tʃɚ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: transport/urban/modern infrastructure
Definition: The basic systems and services a country or organisation needs to function (roads, rail, power, etc.).
Example: “Improving transport infrastructure benefits all citizens.” (means: systems that allow transport)
Common synonym: framework, system
Common mistakes: Spelling ("infrastruction"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: transport/urban/modern infrastructure
Definition: The basic systems and services a country or organisation needs to function (roads, rail, power, etc.).
Example: “Improving transport infrastructure benefits all citizens.” (means: systems that allow transport)
Common synonym: framework, system
Common mistakes: Spelling ("infrastruction"); using as a verb.
emissions ▼
Phonetics: /ɪˈmɪʃ.ənz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun (usually plural)
Pattern: carbon emissions, reduce emissions
Definition: Gases and particles released into the air, especially by cars, factories, etc.
Example: “Electric buses help lower harmful emissions.” (means: less pollution)
Common synonym: pollutants, discharge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("emitions"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun (usually plural)
Pattern: carbon emissions, reduce emissions
Definition: Gases and particles released into the air, especially by cars, factories, etc.
Example: “Electric buses help lower harmful emissions.” (means: less pollution)
Common synonym: pollutants, discharge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("emitions"); using as a verb.
priority ▼
Phonetics: /praɪˈɒr.ə.ti/ (BrE), /praɪˈɔːr.ə.t̬i/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: make (something) a priority
Definition: Something that is regarded as more important than others.
Example: “Public safety should be a top priority for governments.”
Common synonym: importance, precedence
Common mistakes: Using as a verb ("priority something"); confusion with "prioritize" (verb).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: make (something) a priority
Definition: Something that is regarded as more important than others.
Example: “Public safety should be a top priority for governments.”
Common synonym: importance, precedence
Common mistakes: Using as a verb ("priority something"); confusion with "prioritize" (verb).
urban ▼
Phonetics: /ˈɜː.bən/ (BrE), /ˈɝː.bən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: urban area/life/transport
Definition: Relating to a city or town.
Example: “Urban congestion is a major issue in many capitals.”
Common synonym: city, metropolitan
Common mistakes: Confusing with "suburban" (outside city) or "rural" (countryside).
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: urban area/life/transport
Definition: Relating to a city or town.
Example: “Urban congestion is a major issue in many capitals.”
Common synonym: city, metropolitan
Common mistakes: Confusing with "suburban" (outside city) or "rural" (countryside).
accessible ▼
Phonetics: /əkˈses.ə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: accessible to (group), accessible transport
Definition: Easy to reach, enter, or use.
Example: “Public buses make the city more accessible for everyone.”
Common synonym: reachable, available
Common mistakes: Spelling ("accessable"); using for "affordable."
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: accessible to (group), accessible transport
Definition: Easy to reach, enter, or use.
Example: “Public buses make the city more accessible for everyone.”
Common synonym: reachable, available
Common mistakes: Spelling ("accessable"); using for "affordable."
incentive ▼
Phonetics: /ɪnˈsen.tɪv/ (BrE), /ɪnˈsen.t̬ɪv/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: provide/give (an) incentive
Definition: Something that encourages people to do something.
Example: “Subsidies are incentives for people to use public transport.”
Common synonym: motivation, stimulus
Common mistakes: Spelling ("insentive"); confusing with "initiative."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: provide/give (an) incentive
Definition: Something that encourages people to do something.
Example: “Subsidies are incentives for people to use public transport.”
Common synonym: motivation, stimulus
Common mistakes: Spelling ("insentive"); confusing with "initiative."
implement ▼
Phonetics: /ˈɪm.plɪ.ment/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: implement (a policy/plan/measure)
Definition: To put a plan, idea, or policy into effect.
Example: “The city implemented a new bus lane to reduce congestion.”
Common synonym: carry out, execute
Common mistakes: Using as a noun; spelling ("impliment").
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: implement (a policy/plan/measure)
Definition: To put a plan, idea, or policy into effect.
Example: “The city implemented a new bus lane to reduce congestion.”
Common synonym: carry out, execute
Common mistakes: Using as a noun; spelling ("impliment").
pollution ▼
Phonetics: /pəˈluː.ʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: air/water/noise pollution
Definition: Substances that make air, water, or land dirty or unsafe.
Example: “Public transport can help reduce air pollution in cities.”
Common synonym: contamination
Common mistakes: Spelling ("polution"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: air/water/noise pollution
Definition: Substances that make air, water, or land dirty or unsafe.
Example: “Public transport can help reduce air pollution in cities.”
Common synonym: contamination
Common mistakes: Spelling ("polution"); using as a verb.
commute ▼
Phonetics: /kəˈmjuːt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: daily commute, to commute (to work/school)
Definition: The regular journey between home and work or school.
Example: “Her daily commute takes only 20 minutes by train.”
Common synonym: travel, journey
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun ("my commute"); using "commuter" for the journey (commuter = person).
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: daily commute, to commute (to work/school)
Definition: The regular journey between home and work or school.
Example: “Her daily commute takes only 20 minutes by train.”
Common synonym: travel, journey
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun ("my commute"); using "commuter" for the journey (commuter = person).
subsidy ▼
Phonetics: /ˈsʌb.sɪ.di/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: government/public subsidy
Definition: Money given by a government to reduce the cost of something.
Example: “The government provided subsidies for train tickets.”
Common synonym: grant, financial support
Common mistakes: Spelling ("subsidee"); confusing with "salary."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: government/public subsidy
Definition: Money given by a government to reduce the cost of something.
Example: “The government provided subsidies for train tickets.”
Common synonym: grant, financial support
Common mistakes: Spelling ("subsidee"); confusing with "salary."
efficiency ▼
Phonetics: /ɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: increase/improve efficiency
Definition: The ability to do something well without wasting time or resources.
Example: “Efficient public transport saves both time and energy.”
Common synonym: productivity
Common mistakes: Spelling ("eficiency"); confusing with "effectiveness."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: increase/improve efficiency
Definition: The ability to do something well without wasting time or resources.
Example: “Efficient public transport saves both time and energy.”
Common synonym: productivity
Common mistakes: Spelling ("eficiency"); confusing with "effectiveness."
advantage ▼
Phonetics: /ədˈvɑːn.tɪdʒ/ (BrE), /ədˈvæn.t̬ɪdʒ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: have/gain an advantage
Definition: Something that helps you to be better or more successful.
Example: “One major advantage of trains is their speed.”
Common synonym: benefit, edge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("adventage"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: have/gain an advantage
Definition: Something that helps you to be better or more successful.
Example: “One major advantage of trains is their speed.”
Common synonym: benefit, edge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("adventage"); using as a verb.
reliable ▼
Phonetics: /rɪˈlaɪ.ə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: reliable service/transport
Definition: Able to be trusted or depended on.
Example: “Reliable trains ensure commuters reach work on time.”
Common synonym: dependable, trustworthy
Common mistakes: Spelling ("relieble"); confusing with "responsible."
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: reliable service/transport
Definition: Able to be trusted or depended on.
Example: “Reliable trains ensure commuters reach work on time.”
Common synonym: dependable, trustworthy
Common mistakes: Spelling ("relieble"); confusing with "responsible."
benefit ▼
Phonetics: /ˈben.ɪ.fɪt/ (BrE), /ˈben.ə.fɪt/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: benefit from, bring/offer benefit(s)
Definition: A helpful or good effect, or to receive a good effect from something.
Example: “Everyone benefits from cleaner air.”
Common synonym: advantage, profit
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun; spelling ("benifit").
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: benefit from, bring/offer benefit(s)
Definition: A helpful or good effect, or to receive a good effect from something.
Example: “Everyone benefits from cleaner air.”
Common synonym: advantage, profit
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun; spelling ("benifit").
subway ▼
Phonetics: /ˈsʌb.weɪ/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: take/use the subway
Definition: An underground train system in a city.
Example: “Many cities have invested in subways for fast transport.”
Common synonym: underground, metro, tube
Common mistakes: Using for all trains; confusing with "tram" or "light rail."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: take/use the subway
Definition: An underground train system in a city.
Example: “Many cities have invested in subways for fast transport.”
Common synonym: underground, metro, tube
Common mistakes: Using for all trains; confusing with "tram" or "light rail."
equitable ▼
Phonetics: /ˈek.wɪ.tə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: equitable solution/access
Definition: Fair and impartial; treating everyone equally.
Example: “Equitable transport systems serve all communities.”
Common synonym: fair, impartial
Common mistakes: Spelling ("equatable"); confusing with "equal."
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: equitable solution/access
Definition: Fair and impartial; treating everyone equally.
Example: “Equitable transport systems serve all communities.”
Common synonym: fair, impartial
Common mistakes: Spelling ("equatable"); confusing with "equal."
reside ▼
Phonetics: /rɪˈzaɪd/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: reside in (a place)
Definition: To live or have your home in a particular place.
Example: “Most people reside in urban centres.”
Common synonym: live, dwell
Common mistakes: Using as a noun ("reside"); confusing with "resident" (noun).
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: reside in (a place)
Definition: To live or have your home in a particular place.
Example: “Most people reside in urban centres.”
Common synonym: live, dwell
Common mistakes: Using as a noun ("reside"); confusing with "resident" (noun).
20 Crucial Words for This PTE Essay
Master these advanced academic words used in the model answer and topic. Tap/click each word for details, example, and usage notes. Practise these to improve your score!
allocate ▼
Phonetics: /ˈæl.ə.keɪt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: allocate (something) to (something/someone)
Definition: To give something, especially money or time, officially to someone or for a particular purpose.
Example: “The government should allocate more funds to public transport projects.” (means: assign money to a purpose)
Common synonym: assign, distribute
Common mistakes: Using "allocate for" instead of "allocate to"; spelling ("alllocate").
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: allocate (something) to (something/someone)
Definition: To give something, especially money or time, officially to someone or for a particular purpose.
Example: “The government should allocate more funds to public transport projects.” (means: assign money to a purpose)
Common synonym: assign, distribute
Common mistakes: Using "allocate for" instead of "allocate to"; spelling ("alllocate").
congestion ▼
Phonetics: /kənˈdʒes.tʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: traffic/urban congestion
Definition: The state of being crowded and blocked, especially by vehicles.
Example: “Investing in public transport helps reduce congestion in cities.” (means: less crowding, smoother traffic)
Common synonym: crowding, blockage
Common mistakes: Spelling ("conjeston"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: traffic/urban congestion
Definition: The state of being crowded and blocked, especially by vehicles.
Example: “Investing in public transport helps reduce congestion in cities.” (means: less crowding, smoother traffic)
Common synonym: crowding, blockage
Common mistakes: Spelling ("conjeston"); using as a verb.
sustainable ▼
Phonetics: /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: sustainable development/transport/solution
Definition: Able to continue over a long period without harming the environment.
Example: “Public transport is more sustainable than building new roads.” (means: better for future, eco-friendly)
Common synonym: eco-friendly, long-lasting
Common mistakes: Using "sustain" as adjective; spelling ("sustainible").
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: sustainable development/transport/solution
Definition: Able to continue over a long period without harming the environment.
Example: “Public transport is more sustainable than building new roads.” (means: better for future, eco-friendly)
Common synonym: eco-friendly, long-lasting
Common mistakes: Using "sustain" as adjective; spelling ("sustainible").
infrastructure ▼
Phonetics: /ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ (BrE), /-tʃɚ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: transport/urban/modern infrastructure
Definition: The basic systems and services a country or organisation needs to function (roads, rail, power, etc.).
Example: “Improving transport infrastructure benefits all citizens.” (means: systems that allow transport)
Common synonym: framework, system
Common mistakes: Spelling ("infrastruction"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: transport/urban/modern infrastructure
Definition: The basic systems and services a country or organisation needs to function (roads, rail, power, etc.).
Example: “Improving transport infrastructure benefits all citizens.” (means: systems that allow transport)
Common synonym: framework, system
Common mistakes: Spelling ("infrastruction"); using as a verb.
emissions ▼
Phonetics: /ɪˈmɪʃ.ənz/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun (usually plural)
Pattern: carbon emissions, reduce emissions
Definition: Gases and particles released into the air, especially by cars, factories, etc.
Example: “Electric buses help lower harmful emissions.” (means: less pollution)
Common synonym: pollutants, discharge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("emitions"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun (usually plural)
Pattern: carbon emissions, reduce emissions
Definition: Gases and particles released into the air, especially by cars, factories, etc.
Example: “Electric buses help lower harmful emissions.” (means: less pollution)
Common synonym: pollutants, discharge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("emitions"); using as a verb.
priority ▼
Phonetics: /praɪˈɒr.ə.ti/ (BrE), /praɪˈɔːr.ə.t̬i/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: make (something) a priority
Definition: Something that is regarded as more important than others.
Example: “Public safety should be a top priority for governments.”
Common synonym: importance, precedence
Common mistakes: Using as a verb ("priority something"); confusion with "prioritize" (verb).
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: make (something) a priority
Definition: Something that is regarded as more important than others.
Example: “Public safety should be a top priority for governments.”
Common synonym: importance, precedence
Common mistakes: Using as a verb ("priority something"); confusion with "prioritize" (verb).
urban ▼
Phonetics: /ˈɜː.bən/ (BrE), /ˈɝː.bən/ (AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: urban area/life/transport
Definition: Relating to a city or town.
Example: “Urban congestion is a major issue in many capitals.”
Common synonym: city, metropolitan
Common mistakes: Confusing with "suburban" (outside city) or "rural" (countryside).
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: urban area/life/transport
Definition: Relating to a city or town.
Example: “Urban congestion is a major issue in many capitals.”
Common synonym: city, metropolitan
Common mistakes: Confusing with "suburban" (outside city) or "rural" (countryside).
accessible ▼
Phonetics: /əkˈses.ə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: accessible to (group), accessible transport
Definition: Easy to reach, enter, or use.
Example: “Public buses make the city more accessible for everyone.”
Common synonym: reachable, available
Common mistakes: Spelling ("accessable"); using for "affordable."
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: accessible to (group), accessible transport
Definition: Easy to reach, enter, or use.
Example: “Public buses make the city more accessible for everyone.”
Common synonym: reachable, available
Common mistakes: Spelling ("accessable"); using for "affordable."
incentive ▼
Phonetics: /ɪnˈsen.tɪv/ (BrE), /ɪnˈsen.t̬ɪv/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: provide/give (an) incentive
Definition: Something that encourages people to do something.
Example: “Subsidies are incentives for people to use public transport.”
Common synonym: motivation, stimulus
Common mistakes: Spelling ("insentive"); confusing with "initiative."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: provide/give (an) incentive
Definition: Something that encourages people to do something.
Example: “Subsidies are incentives for people to use public transport.”
Common synonym: motivation, stimulus
Common mistakes: Spelling ("insentive"); confusing with "initiative."
implement ▼
Phonetics: /ˈɪm.plɪ.ment/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: implement (a policy/plan/measure)
Definition: To put a plan, idea, or policy into effect.
Example: “The city implemented a new bus lane to reduce congestion.”
Common synonym: carry out, execute
Common mistakes: Using as a noun; spelling ("impliment").
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: implement (a policy/plan/measure)
Definition: To put a plan, idea, or policy into effect.
Example: “The city implemented a new bus lane to reduce congestion.”
Common synonym: carry out, execute
Common mistakes: Using as a noun; spelling ("impliment").
pollution ▼
Phonetics: /pəˈluː.ʃən/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: air/water/noise pollution
Definition: Substances that make air, water, or land dirty or unsafe.
Example: “Public transport can help reduce air pollution in cities.”
Common synonym: contamination
Common mistakes: Spelling ("polution"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: air/water/noise pollution
Definition: Substances that make air, water, or land dirty or unsafe.
Example: “Public transport can help reduce air pollution in cities.”
Common synonym: contamination
Common mistakes: Spelling ("polution"); using as a verb.
commute ▼
Phonetics: /kəˈmjuːt/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: daily commute, to commute (to work/school)
Definition: The regular journey between home and work or school.
Example: “Her daily commute takes only 20 minutes by train.”
Common synonym: travel, journey
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun ("my commute"); using "commuter" for the journey (commuter = person).
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: daily commute, to commute (to work/school)
Definition: The regular journey between home and work or school.
Example: “Her daily commute takes only 20 minutes by train.”
Common synonym: travel, journey
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun ("my commute"); using "commuter" for the journey (commuter = person).
subsidy ▼
Phonetics: /ˈsʌb.sɪ.di/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: government/public subsidy
Definition: Money given by a government to reduce the cost of something.
Example: “The government provided subsidies for train tickets.”
Common synonym: grant, financial support
Common mistakes: Spelling ("subsidee"); confusing with "salary."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: government/public subsidy
Definition: Money given by a government to reduce the cost of something.
Example: “The government provided subsidies for train tickets.”
Common synonym: grant, financial support
Common mistakes: Spelling ("subsidee"); confusing with "salary."
efficiency ▼
Phonetics: /ɪˈfɪʃ.ən.si/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: increase/improve efficiency
Definition: The ability to do something well without wasting time or resources.
Example: “Efficient public transport saves both time and energy.”
Common synonym: productivity
Common mistakes: Spelling ("eficiency"); confusing with "effectiveness."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: increase/improve efficiency
Definition: The ability to do something well without wasting time or resources.
Example: “Efficient public transport saves both time and energy.”
Common synonym: productivity
Common mistakes: Spelling ("eficiency"); confusing with "effectiveness."
advantage ▼
Phonetics: /ədˈvɑːn.tɪdʒ/ (BrE), /ədˈvæn.t̬ɪdʒ/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: have/gain an advantage
Definition: Something that helps you to be better or more successful.
Example: “One major advantage of trains is their speed.”
Common synonym: benefit, edge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("adventage"); using as a verb.
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: have/gain an advantage
Definition: Something that helps you to be better or more successful.
Example: “One major advantage of trains is their speed.”
Common synonym: benefit, edge
Common mistakes: Spelling ("adventage"); using as a verb.
reliable ▼
Phonetics: /rɪˈlaɪ.ə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: reliable service/transport
Definition: Able to be trusted or depended on.
Example: “Reliable trains ensure commuters reach work on time.”
Common synonym: dependable, trustworthy
Common mistakes: Spelling ("relieble"); confusing with "responsible."
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: reliable service/transport
Definition: Able to be trusted or depended on.
Example: “Reliable trains ensure commuters reach work on time.”
Common synonym: dependable, trustworthy
Common mistakes: Spelling ("relieble"); confusing with "responsible."
benefit ▼
Phonetics: /ˈben.ɪ.fɪt/ (BrE), /ˈben.ə.fɪt/ (AmE)
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: benefit from, bring/offer benefit(s)
Definition: A helpful or good effect, or to receive a good effect from something.
Example: “Everyone benefits from cleaner air.”
Common synonym: advantage, profit
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun; spelling ("benifit").
Part of speech: noun/verb
Pattern: benefit from, bring/offer benefit(s)
Definition: A helpful or good effect, or to receive a good effect from something.
Example: “Everyone benefits from cleaner air.”
Common synonym: advantage, profit
Common mistakes: Using only as a noun; spelling ("benifit").
subway ▼
Phonetics: /ˈsʌb.weɪ/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: take/use the subway
Definition: An underground train system in a city.
Example: “Many cities have invested in subways for fast transport.”
Common synonym: underground, metro, tube
Common mistakes: Using for all trains; confusing with "tram" or "light rail."
Part of speech: noun
Pattern: take/use the subway
Definition: An underground train system in a city.
Example: “Many cities have invested in subways for fast transport.”
Common synonym: underground, metro, tube
Common mistakes: Using for all trains; confusing with "tram" or "light rail."
equitable ▼
Phonetics: /ˈek.wɪ.tə.bəl/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: equitable solution/access
Definition: Fair and impartial; treating everyone equally.
Example: “Equitable transport systems serve all communities.”
Common synonym: fair, impartial
Common mistakes: Spelling ("equatable"); confusing with "equal."
Part of speech: adjective
Pattern: equitable solution/access
Definition: Fair and impartial; treating everyone equally.
Example: “Equitable transport systems serve all communities.”
Common synonym: fair, impartial
Common mistakes: Spelling ("equatable"); confusing with "equal."
reside ▼
Phonetics: /rɪˈzaɪd/ (BrE & AmE)
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: reside in (a place)
Definition: To live or have your home in a particular place.
Example: “Most people reside in urban centres.”
Common synonym: live, dwell
Common mistakes: Using as a noun ("reside"); confusing with "resident" (noun).
Part of speech: verb
Pattern: reside in (a place)
Definition: To live or have your home in a particular place.
Example: “Most people reside in urban centres.”
Common synonym: live, dwell
Common mistakes: Using as a noun ("reside"); confusing with "resident" (noun).
Interactive Exercise 1: Test Your PTE Vocabulary & Phrases
Practice the crucial words and expressions from this lesson. Select your answer. After each question, the correct answer and a detailed academic explanation will appear in an elegant animated box.
Interactive Exercise 2: Deep Practice on PTE Words & Phrases
Challenge yourself further with these advanced MCQs. Each question covers a different word or phrase from this lesson. Select your answer to reveal the correct option and a detailed academic explanation!