This glossary can help you prepare for the IELTS writing tasks related to Family and the Home.
aforementioned
Denoting a thing or person previously mentioned.
Example: The aforementioned drawbacks are the exceptions.
contend
verb
Struggle to surmount (a difficulty).
Example: In large cities such as New York, real estate prices are so high that without a high-paying job you will struggle to contend with rent, food, transportation costs, and allowances for leisure activities.
debilitating
adjective
Tending to weaken something.
Example: In my opinion, this is a positive trend taken as a whole because it fosters independence but it can have rare debilitating financial drawbacks.
drawback
noun
A feature that renders something less acceptable; a disadvantage or problem.
Example: In my opinion, this is a positive trend taken as a whole because it fosters independence but it can have rare debilitating financial drawbacks.
frugality
noun
The quality of being economical with money or food; thriftiness.
Example: These qualities, of frugality and responsibility, will serve them well in their lives and increase their odds of future success.
hardship
noun
Severe suffering or privation.
Example: It is even possible that these hardships could prove overwhelming and pride may prevent you from going back to your parents.
laundry
noun
A room in a house, hotel, or institution where clothes and linen can be washed and ironed.
Example: These students take their first baby steps towards looking after themselves by doing their own laundry, managing their finances to an extent, and taking on campus employment.
outlay
noun
An amount of money spent on something.
Example: Once, they graduate from university they will likely take over their entire financial outlay.
prevalent
adjective
Widespread in a particular area or at a particular time.
Example: It has become increasing prevalent for young adults to leave home before getting married.
stability
noun
The strength to stand or endure.
Example: The main drawback to moving out early is losing a parental safety net that safeguards financial stability.