ALPT B1 key terms

The most important point a speaker or writer wants to communicate about a topic. It is broader than a detail and can usually be stated in one sentence.

A specific fact, example, reason, or figure that explains or backs up a main idea. Details answer questions like who, what, when, or how much.

A conclusion a listener or reader draws from clues in the text or speech rather than from a statement made directly. It requires combining evidence with general knowledge.

The general sense or overall meaning of a spoken or written passage, understood without catching every word. Listeners often grasp the gist before they understand details.

A listening approach in which you focus on specific information such as names, numbers, times, or prices. It is used after the general topic is already understood.

Writing short keywords, symbols, or abbreviations while listening or reading in order to remember key points. Good notes are brief and organised rather than full sentences.

A word or phrase that shows how ideas are organised, such as 'first', 'however', or 'in conclusion'. These markers help listeners follow the structure of a talk.

An answer option or piece of information that seems correct but is not, often because it repeats words from the recording or text. Recognising distractors is a key test skill.

A sentence, usually near the start of a paragraph, that states the paragraph's main point. The remaining sentences develop or support it.

A group of related sentences about one idea, separated from other groups by a line break or indentation. A paragraph normally has a topic sentence and supporting sentences.

To read quickly to get a general impression of a text's content and structure. Skimming means looking at headings and first sentences rather than every word.

To move your eyes quickly over a text looking for one specific item, such as a date, name, or number. You do not read the surrounding text in full.

Information in the surrounding words or sentences that helps you guess the meaning of an unknown word. Clues include definitions, examples, contrasts, and synonyms.

A word that has a very similar meaning to another word, such as 'begin' and 'start'. Test questions often restate ideas using synonyms instead of the original wording.

A word that means the opposite of another word, such as 'cheap' and 'expensive'. Antonyms are often used in contrast statements and in vocabulary exercises.

To express the same meaning using different words, often to check understanding or to restate an idea more simply. A good paraphrase keeps the original meaning intact.

The way sentences and paragraphs are linked so that a text reads as a connected whole. Cohesion is created by pronouns, repeated words, and connectors.

A word or phrase that joins ideas and shows their relationship, for example 'because', 'although', or 'therefore'. Connectors signal cause, contrast, addition, or result.

The part of a sentence that performs the action or is described by the verb. In English, every full sentence needs a subject, even when it is a pronoun.

A word that expresses an action, event, or state, such as 'run', 'happen', or 'be'. The verb carries tense and must match its subject.

The form of a verb that shows when an action happens, such as past, present, or future. English tenses can be simple, continuous, or perfect.

The part of a verb form that shows how an action is viewed, for example as ongoing (continuous) or completed (perfect). Aspect combines with tense, as in 'has been working'.

The rule that a verb must match its subject in number and person, as in 'she works' versus 'they work'. Errors in agreement are common in test sentences.

A short word placed before a noun: 'a', 'an', or 'the'. Articles show whether the noun is specific or general, and whether it is new or already known.

A word that comes before a noun and limits or specifies it, such as 'this', 'some', 'my', or 'every'. Articles and possessives are types of determiners.

A group of words built around a noun, such as 'the tall building on the corner'. It can act as the subject or object of a sentence.

A word that shows the relationship between a noun and another part of the sentence, such as 'in', 'on', 'at', or 'between'. Prepositions often express place, time, or direction.

A combination of words that native speakers commonly use together, such as 'make a decision' or 'heavy rain'. Using the wrong partner word sounds unnatural.

The level of formality in language, ranging from casual speech to formal writing. Choosing the right register means matching your words to the situation and audience.

A group of words sharing the same root but different endings, such as 'decide', 'decision', and 'decisive'. Knowing families helps you fill gaps with the correct word form.

A word or phrase used in writing to connect sentences and show the logic between them, such as 'furthermore' or 'as a result'. Linking words make a text easier to follow.

Written language that avoids slang and contractions and uses complete, carefully structured sentences. It is typical of reports, applications, and academic work.

The process of expanding a main idea with reasons, examples, and explanations so that a piece of writing fully answers the task. Weak development leaves ideas unsupported.

The ability to speak with reasonable speed, flow, and few long pauses, even if some errors occur. Fluency is about smooth communication rather than perfect accuracy.

The way words are spoken, including individual sounds, stress, and intonation. Clear pronunciation matters more for being understood than having a native accent.

The extra force given to a particular syllable or word when speaking, making it louder and longer. Correct word stress helps listeners recognise words quickly.

The way speakers in a conversation alternate, knowing when to speak and when to let others speak. Signals such as pausing or short questions help manage this.

A question or statement used to check or confirm understanding, such as 'Could you repeat that?' or 'Do you mean...?'. Asking for clarification keeps communication going.