Academic vocabulary sits between everyday language and highly technical terminology. Words such as “derive,” “indicate,” and “constitute” can appear across many fields, while terms such as “mitosis” or “jurisdiction” belong to narrower disciplines.
A useful study plan distinguishes general academic language from course-specific terminology. It also connects each word to the texts, assignments, lectures, and discussions in which the student needs it.
General academic vocabulary and technical vocabulary
| Vocabulary type | Typical use | Study priority |
|---|---|---|
| General academic | Across multiple subjects and academic genres | High for students entering tertiary study |
| Discipline-specific | Within a field such as biology, law, or economics | High when required by current courses |
| Everyday/core | High-frequency communication | Foundation that supports all further learning |
How to build academic word knowledge
- Collect vocabulary from assigned readings, lectures, rubrics, and model papers.
- Check meaning, pronunciation, part of speech, common forms, and typical combinations.
- Write a short example tied to the subject you are studying.
- Practice retrieving the word and explaining the concept in plain English.
- Use the word in discussion or writing, then seek feedback on accuracy and register.
Use word lists as maps, not complete courses
The Academic Word List was developed for learners preparing for tertiary study and contains 570 word families selected from an academic corpus. It is a useful reference, but students still need reading, listening, speaking, writing, and direct study. Different disciplines also require vocabulary beyond any general list.
MERDI’s printed system can provide an additional relational reference for exploring word connections. It is not an Academic Word List course, a writing course, an assessment, or a guarantee of academic performance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Academic Word List?
It is a list of 570 word families developed by Averil Coxhead for learners preparing for tertiary study. Its words were selected for range and frequency across an academic corpus.
Will academic vocabulary improve academic writing by itself?
No. Vocabulary is one component. Effective academic writing also requires ideas, evidence, organization, genre awareness, grammar, revision, and feedback.
Do all university subjects use the same vocabulary?
They share some general academic language, but each discipline also has specialized terms and preferred ways of expressing evidence, argument, and method.