FCE key terms

To read a text quickly to get its general idea or main points, ignoring details. Candidates skim a passage first to understand what it is about before answering questions.

To look quickly through a text for specific information such as a name, date, or number, without reading everything. Useful for matching questions that point to particular details.

The main or general meaning of a text or spoken passage, as opposed to its details. Questions about gist ask what the writer or speaker is broadly saying.

The central point a paragraph or whole text is making, which the other sentences support. Identifying it helps you reject options that are true but secondary.

A sentence, often the first in a paragraph, that states the paragraph's main point. Recognising it speeds up locating answers in longer reading passages.

A reading question that asks for a specific piece of information stated in the text, such as a reason, figure, or example. The answer is usually found in one particular sentence.

A question that asks what the text implies rather than states directly, so the answer must be worked out from clues. The correct option is supported by evidence but not worded identically.

To express the same meaning using different words, or the rewording itself. Exam options usually paraphrase the text, so matching exact wording is often a trap.

An incorrect answer option designed to look attractive, often by repeating a word from the text or stating something plausible but unsupported. Learning to spot them improves accuracy.

A task format offering several options where only one is correct, used in both reading and listening papers. Candidates choose the option that matches the text or recording best.

A reading task in which sentences are removed from a passage and must be put back into the correct gaps. Success depends on linking words, pronouns, and logical flow.

The way sentences and paragraphs are connected so a text reads as a whole, through linking words, pronouns, and repeated ideas. Cohesion clues are essential in gapped-text tasks.

A word such as he, it, this, or they that points back or forward to something already mentioned. Tracking reference words helps you see which sentence fits a gap.

A task where several short texts or speakers must be matched to statements or questions. Candidates read or listen for the specific idea each option describes.

The level of formality in language, ranging from informal spoken style to formal written style. Choosing the right register matters in writing emails, letters, and articles.

A natural word partnership, such as make a decision or heavy rain, that native speakers use together. Knowing collocations is tested in Use of English and improves writing accuracy.

A verb combined with an adverb or preposition that creates a new meaning, such as give up or look after. These are frequently tested in Use of English gap tasks.

A fixed expression whose meaning cannot be worked out from its individual words, such as break the ice. Idioms appear in reading and listening and enrich informal writing.

Changing a base word into another form, such as happy to happiness or decide to decision, often by adding prefixes or suffixes. A Use of English task tests this skill directly.

A letter group added to the front of a word to change its meaning, such as un- in unhappy or re- in rewrite. Recognising prefixes helps in word-formation tasks.

A letter group added to the end of a word to change its meaning or word class, such as -ness in kindness or -ful in careful. Choosing the right suffix is key in word formation.

A Use of English task where candidates supply one missing word per gap with no options given. It tests grammar, prepositions, and collocations rather than vocabulary recognition.

A task requiring candidates to rewrite a sentence so it means the same as the original, using a given word and a set number of words. It tests grammar and vocabulary control.

A word or phrase such as however, although, or in addition that connects ideas and shows their relationship. Correct linkers improve both cohesion and writing scores.

A word or expression that joins sentences or clauses and signals meaning, such as because, therefore, or on the other hand. Using a range of connectors raises writing quality.

Language that avoids slang and contractions and uses polite, precise wording, suitable for letters of application or complaints. It contrasts with the informal style used in emails to friends.

The attitude a writer or speaker conveys, such as friendly, critical, or apologetic. Matching tone to purpose is important in writing tasks and in listening questions about feelings.

A group of sentences about one idea, separated from others by a line break. Clear paragraphing with topic sentences helps examiners follow your writing.

A piece of writing that presents and supports an opinion or discusses a topic in organised paragraphs. Part 1 of the Writing paper often requires an essay based on given notes.

A short piece of writing that describes and evaluates something such as a film, book, or restaurant, usually ending with a recommendation. It is a common Writing paper choice.

A structured piece of writing that presents findings or suggestions on a topic, often with headings. It uses a fairly formal register and clear organisation.

The way words are spoken, including sounds, stress, and intonation. Clear pronunciation matters in the Speaking test, where intelligibility counts more than accent.

The extra emphasis given to a particular syllable or word in speech. Correct word stress helps listeners understand you and is assessed in the Speaking test.

The rise and fall of the voice in speech, which can change meaning or show attitude. Using natural intonation makes spoken answers easier to follow.

The ability to speak smoothly and at a reasonable pace without too much hesitation or stopping. It is a key criterion in the Speaking test alongside accuracy and range.

The way speakers take turns in a conversation, avoiding long silences or interrupting rudely. Managing turns well is important in the interactive parts of the Speaking test.

Two-way communication in which speakers respond to each other, ask questions, and react to ideas. The Speaking test rewards candidates who engage actively with their partner.

Writing brief key points while listening so you can answer questions afterwards. It helps you catch details such as names and numbers without losing the thread.

The skill of understanding spoken English in different situations, such as interviews or announcements. The Listening paper tests both general understanding and specific details.