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CEFR B1 Vocabulary List: 500+ Essential Intermediate Words

January 14, 2025 12 min read Vocabulary Experts

This comprehensive B1 vocabulary list contains over 500 essential intermediate English words that every B1 level student should know. These words are carefully selected based on frequency, usefulness, and exam requirements.

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What Makes B1 Vocabulary Special?

B1 (Intermediate) vocabulary represents a significant step up from A2 level. At B1, you need approximately 2,500-3,000 words to communicate effectively. These words allow you to:

Express Complex Ideas
  • Describe experiences and events
  • Explain plans and ambitions
  • Give reasons and explanations
  • Express opinions and preferences
Handle Real Situations
  • Deal with travel and accommodation
  • Discuss work and career topics
  • Handle social interactions
  • Understand media and news

B1 Vocabulary by Category

  • achievement - accomplishment
  • application - job request
  • colleague - work partner
  • deadline - time limit
  • employment - having a job
  • interview - job meeting
  • management - leadership
  • opportunity - chance
  • position - job role
  • professional - work-related
  • promotion - job advancement
  • qualification - skill certificate
  • responsibility - duty
  • salary - payment
  • schedule - timetable
  • skill - ability
  • task - work assignment
  • training - skill development
  • unemployment - without job
  • workplace - office environment

  • academic - educational
  • certificate - qualification document
  • curriculum - course content
  • degree - university qualification
  • examination - test
  • graduate - complete studies
  • knowledge - understanding
  • lecture - educational talk
  • research - study investigation
  • scholarship - study funding
  • semester - study period
  • subject - study topic
  • textbook - study book
  • theory - ideas and concepts
  • university - higher education
  • analyze - examine carefully
  • concentrate - focus attention
  • memorize - remember
  • practice - repeat for skill
  • understand - comprehend

  • accommodation - place to stay
  • adventure - exciting experience
  • booking - reservation
  • destination - travel goal
  • excursion - short trip
  • facilities - available services
  • guide - tour leader
  • journey - travel experience
  • luggage - travel bags
  • passport - travel document
  • reservation - booking
  • souvenir - travel memory
  • tourist - visitor
  • transportation - travel method
  • vacation - holiday
  • visa - entry permission
  • explore - discover
  • relax - rest
  • sightsee - visit attractions
  • wander - walk around
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Essential B1 Adjectives

These descriptive words are crucial for B1 level communication:

Word Meaning Example Opposite
accurate correct and precise The information is accurate inaccurate
confident sure of oneself She feels confident about the test insecure
disappointed sad because expectations weren't met I was disappointed with the result satisfied
enthusiastic very interested and excited He's enthusiastic about sports apathetic
independent able to do things alone She's very independent dependent
necessary needed or required Exercise is necessary for health unnecessary
obvious clear and easy to understand The answer is obvious unclear
responsible reliable and trustworthy He's a responsible employee irresponsible

B1 Phrasal Verbs

These multi-word verbs are essential for natural B1 communication:

Common B1 Phrasal Verbs
  • break down - stop working
  • carry out - perform/do
  • come across - find by chance
  • deal with - handle
  • find out - discover
  • get on - have good relationship
  • look after - take care of
  • point out - mention
  • put off - postpone
  • set up - establish
Usage Examples
  • The car broke down on the highway
  • We need to carry out the plan
  • I came across an old friend
  • How do you deal with stress?
  • Let's find out the truth
  • Do you get on with your colleagues?
  • Can you look after my cat?
  • She pointed out the mistake
  • Don't put off your homework
  • They set up a new business

How to Study B1 Vocabulary

Effective strategies for mastering B1 vocabulary:

Contextual Learning
  • Learn words in sentences
  • Use words in conversations
  • Read texts with B1 vocabulary
  • Watch English videos
Spaced Repetition
  • Review words regularly
  • Use flashcard apps
  • Practice writing sentences
  • Test yourself weekly
Active Practice
  • Use in conversations
  • Write essays and emails
  • Practice with native speakers
  • Join English discussion groups
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B1 Study Goals
  • ✓ Learn 2,500-3,000 words
  • ✓ Master 100+ phrasal verbs
  • ✓ Use complex sentence structures
  • ✓ Express opinions clearly
  • ✓ Handle work/travel situations
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