Ultimate TOEIC Word List: Essential Vocabulary for Every Test Section

Updated on: June 29, 2025

Many test-takers struggle to remember vocabulary that covers all the different topics the TOEIC exam can throw at them, from office conversations to travel arrangements. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer variety of words you need to know, you’re not alone.

That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive TOEIC vocabulary word list. In this post, you’ll find essential words organized by the most common TOEIC themes and test sections. Whether you want to improve your TOEIC score or simply feel more confident on test day, our word list is your go-to resource for targeted vocabulary practice.

Understanding TOEIC Vocabulary Requirements

To succeed on the TOEIC test, it’s important to know not just a lot of words, but the right words for each section. Here’s what you need to know:

1. How Many Words You Need for Different TOEIC Score Targets

Basic Proficiency (TOEIC score 10–250):

  • About 1,000–1,500 common workplace words
  • Focus on greetings, basic office tasks, and simple instructions

Intermediate Proficiency (TOEIC score 255–785):

  • Around 2,000–3,000 words, including business terms and common expressions
  • Covers meetings, schedules, travel, and customer service

Advanced Proficiency (TOEIC score 790+):

  • 4,000+ words, including industry-specific vocabulary and idioms
  • Includes negotiation, marketing, finance, and management language

2. Most Common Vocabulary by Test Section

Listening Section:

  • Office conversations, phone calls, announcements, and instructions
  • Key topics: meetings, travel, company events, customer service

Reading Section:

  • Emails, memos, advertisements, notices, and reports
  • Key topics: business correspondence, product descriptions, schedules, policies

3. Why Learning Vocabulary in Context Works Best

  • Context shows you how words are used naturally in sentences
  • Helps you remember meanings and spot common collocations (words that often go together)
  • Makes it easier to understand and answer real TOEIC questions

4. How Vocabulary Range Impacts Your TOEIC Score

A broader vocabulary range allows you to:

  • Understand more questions and answer choices
  • Read faster and listen more effectively
  • Score higher on both listening and reading sections

Complete TOEIC Word List by Categories

Corporate Development and Business Activities

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
strategynounBusiness plans or approaches discussed in meetings or reports
objectivenounSpecific goals set by a company or project
mergernounTwo companies joining together, often in business news or announcements
acquisitionnounPurchase of one company by another, common in corporate updates
expansionnounCompany growth, often in new markets or locations
stakeholdernounPeople or groups affected by company decisions, in reports or presentations
forecastnounBusiness predictions, such as sales or revenue forecasts
annual reportnounYearly summary of company performance, often referenced in reading passages
revenuenounTotal income of a business, in financial statements
profit marginnounPercentage of profit from revenue, used in financial discussions
market sharenounCompany’s portion of sales in the market, often compared with competitors
competitornounRival companies, mentioned in strategy or market analysis
negotiationnounProcess of discussing terms, common in meetings or contracts
agendanounList of topics for a meeting, often in emails or memos
consensusnounGeneral agreement, used in meeting reports
proposalnounFormal suggestion, often for projects or partnerships
delegateverb/nounTo assign tasks (verb) or a representative (noun), used in meetings
facilitatornounPerson leading a meeting or discussion
minutesnounWritten record of a meeting, often referenced in office documents
action plannounDetailed steps to achieve objectives, in project management
deadlinenounFinal date for task completion, common in project schedules
milestonenounKey achievement in a project timeline
project managernounPerson responsible for overseeing a project
resource allocationnounDistribution of resources, discussed in planning
risk assessmentnounEvaluation of potential problems, in project planning
deliverablenounFinal product or result to be delivered in a project
implementationnounPutting plans into action, used in project updates
outcomenounResult of a project or meeting
feedbacknounComments or evaluations, often in performance reviews
productivitynounEfficiency of work, discussed in business performance
innovationnounNew ideas or products, often in company strategy
restructuringnounOrganizational changes, mentioned in company news
partnershipnounBusiness relationship between companies
subsidiarynounCompany controlled by another company
headquartersnounMain office location, often in company descriptions
compliancenounFollowing rules or regulations, in legal or HR contexts
regulationnounOfficial rules, often discussed in business policies
auditnounReview of financial records, in finance or compliance
consultancynounProfessional advice service, in business services
contractnounLegal agreement, common in business deals
joint venturenounBusiness project shared by two companies
investmentnounMoney put into a business, in finance or company growth
shareholdernounPerson owning company shares, in financial reports
dividendnounPayment to shareholders, in finance
portfolionounCollection of investments or products, in finance or marketing
synergynounCombined effect greater than individual efforts, in mergers or partnerships
benchmarknounStandard for comparison, in performance reviews
brandingnounCreating a company image, in marketing
campaignnounOrganized marketing effort, in advertising
launchverb/nounTo introduce a new product (verb) or the event itself (noun)
sponsorshipnounFinancial support for events or activities
endorsementnounPublic support, often by celebrities or partners
franchisenounBusiness licensed to operate under a brand
licensingnounPermission to use intellectual property
patentnounLegal right for an invention, in innovation
copyrightnounLegal protection for creative work
intellectual propertynounCreations of the mind, protected by law
efficiencynounAbility to do tasks with minimal waste, in operations
optimizationnounMaking processes as effective as possible
scalabilitynounAbility to grow or expand easily
sustainabilitynounMeeting needs without harming future resources
corporate responsibilitynounCompany’s commitment to ethical practices
transparencynounOpenness in business practices
ethicsnounMoral principles, in company policies
leadershipnounAbility to guide others, in management
visionnounLong-term company goals
missionnounCompany’s purpose or core goal
valuesnounCore beliefs of a company
organizational chartnounDiagram showing company structure
hierarchynounLevels of authority in a company
reporting linenounChain of command in an organization
workflownounSequence of tasks in a process
collaborationnounWorking together, common in team projects
communicationnounSharing information, essential in all business areas
motivationnounReason for employees to work hard
incentivenounReward to encourage performance
evaluationnounAssessment of performance or results
performance reviewnounFormal evaluation of employee work
KPInounKey Performance Indicator, measures success
targetnounSpecific goal or objective
achievementnounAccomplishment or success
successnounPositive result, often in projects or business
failurenounLack of success, discussed in project reviews
challengenounDifficult task or obstacle
opportunitynounFavorable situation for growth
SWOT analysisnounTool for evaluating strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats
strategic planningnounLong-term business planning
business modelnounHow a company creates and delivers value
value propositionnounUnique value offered to customers
customer segmentnounSpecific group of customers targeted
revenue streamnounSource of company income
cost structurenounBreakdown of company expenses
key resourcenounEssential asset for business operations
channelnounMeans of delivering products or services
customer relationshipnounInteraction with clients, in sales or support
market analysisnounStudy of market trends and competitors
competitor analysisnounStudy of rival companies
industry trendnounGeneral direction in a business sector
disruptionnounMajor change in industry, often due to innovation
transformationnounSignificant business change
digitalizationnounAdoption of digital technology
globalizationnounExpansion into international markets
outsourcingnounHiring external companies for services
offshoringnounMoving business processes to another country
insourcingnounUsing internal resources for business tasks
business processnounSeries of steps to achieve a business goal
operationsnounDay-to-day business activities
logisticsnounCoordination of supply and delivery
supply chainnounNetwork involved in producing and delivering goods

Office Environments and Procedures

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
workstationnounIndividual desk area in an office
cubiclenounSmall, partitioned workspace in open offices
open-planadjOffice layout with few walls or dividers
ergonomic chairnounChair designed for comfort and health
desknounMain work surface in an office
monitornounComputer screen
keyboardnounDevice for typing on a computer
mousenounDevice for moving the cursor on a computer
printernounMachine for printing documents
scannernounDevice for copying images or documents to a computer
copiernounMachine for making copies of documents
fax machinenounDevice for sending documents over phone lines
paper traynounPart of a printer or copier that holds paper
suppliesnounOffice materials like pens, paper, etc.
stationerynounWriting materials, envelopes, letterhead
filing cabinetnounStorage for organizing documents
documentnounWritten or printed paper, often official
foldernounContainer for organizing papers or files
bindernounDevice for holding sheets of paper together
archivenounStorage of old documents
shreddernounMachine for destroying documents
whiteboardnounBoard for writing notes in meetings
projectornounDevice for displaying images on a screen
conference callnounPhone meeting with multiple participants
teleconferencenounMeeting via phone or video with remote participants
video callnounMeeting using video communication tools
headsetnounDevice with headphones and microphone for calls
Wi-FinounWireless internet access in the office
networknounSystem connecting computers and devices
servernounComputer that manages network resources
softwarenounComputer programs used for office tasks
applicationnounSpecific software program
databasenounOrganized collection of data
spreadsheetnounSoftware for organizing numbers and data
presentationnounSlides or materials for meetings
templatenounPre-designed document format
memonounShort written message for internal communication
emailnounElectronic message
attachmentnounFile sent with an email
calendarnounTool for scheduling appointments and meetings
schedulenoun/verbPlan of activities or to arrange events
appointmentnounScheduled meeting or visit
meetingnounGathering for discussion or decision-making
briefingnounShort meeting to give information
agendanounList of topics for a meeting
minutesnounWritten record of what happened in a meeting
protocolnounOfficial procedure or system of rules
procedurenounEstablished way of doing tasks
workflownounSequence of steps in a process
guidelinenounRecommended practice or rule
policynounOfficial rule or guideline
regulationnounOfficial rule set by authorities
compliancenounFollowing rules and regulations
safetynounMeasures to prevent accidents
securitynounMeasures to protect people and property
access cardnounCard used to enter secure areas
ID badgenounIdentification card worn by employees
visitor passnounTemporary ID for office guests
receptionnounArea where visitors are greeted
lobbynounMain entrance area of a building
elevatornounLift for moving between floors
stairwellnounStaircase area in a building
break roomnounArea for employees to relax or eat
kitchenettenounSmall kitchen in an office
cafeterianounPlace where meals are served at work
vending machinenounMachine for buying snacks or drinks
recyclingnounProcess of reusing materials
maintenancenounUpkeep and repair of office facilities
janitornounPerson responsible for cleaning
cleaning servicenounCompany or staff maintaining cleanliness
air conditioningnounSystem for cooling the office
lightingnounLights in the office
fire drillnounPractice evacuation for fire emergencies
evacuation plannounInstructions for leaving the building safely
first aidnounEmergency medical help
emergency exitnounDoor used to leave in an emergency
lost and foundnounPlace for lost items
parkingnounArea for cars
shuttlenounBus service for employees
commutenounTravel between home and work
teleworknounWorking from home using technology
remote worknounWorking outside the office
flexible hoursnounWork schedule with adjustable times
overtimenounWork beyond regular hours
shiftnounScheduled work period
supervisornounPerson overseeing employees
managernounPerson in charge of a department or team
colleaguenounFellow worker
coworkernounAnother employee at the same company
teamworknounWorking well with others
collaborationnounJoint effort between people or teams
communicationnounSharing information effectively
feedbacknounComments or evaluations about work
suggestion boxnounPlace to submit ideas or feedback
announcementnounOfficial message to employees
noticenounWritten information posted for employees
bulletin boardnounBoard for posting notices and announcements
HRnounHuman Resources department
payrollnounSystem for paying employees
attendancenounRecord of presence at work
leavenounApproved time away from work
sick daynounDay off due to illness
vacationnounPaid time off for holidays
holidaynounOfficial day off work
benefitsnounExtra advantages for employees
insurancenounProtection against risks, often health-related
retirement plannounSavings program for employees’ future

Human Resources Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
recruitmentnounThe process of finding and hiring new employees
job postingnounAdvertisement for an open position
vacancynounUnfilled job position
candidatenounPerson being considered for a job
applicantnounPerson who applies for a job
resumenounDocument listing a person’s work history and skills
curriculum vitaenounDetailed summary of a person’s education and experience
cover letternounLetter sent with a resume to apply for a job
referencenounPerson who can confirm your skills or experience
interviewnounMeeting to assess a candidate for a job
screeningnounInitial review of applicants or candidates
background checknounProcess of verifying a candidate’s history
offer letternounOfficial document offering a job to a candidate
contractnounLegal agreement between employer and employee
probationnounTrial period for new employees
onboardingnounProcess of integrating a new employee
orientationnounIntroduction to company policies and procedures
trainingnounLearning new skills for a job
developmentnounOngoing improvement of skills and knowledge
workshopnounShort training session on a specific topic
seminarnounEducational meeting or conference
mentornounExperienced person who guides another
coachingnounPersonalized instruction or training
performance reviewnounEvaluation of an employee’s work
appraisalnounAssessment of job performance
evaluationnounJudging the quality of work or skills
feedbacknounComments on performance or behavior
promotionnounAdvancement to a higher job position
transfernounMove to a different job or location within the company
demotionnounMove to a lower job position
resignationnounVoluntary departure from a job
terminationnounEnding of employment by the company
layoffnounDismissal due to business reasons, not performance1
redundancynounJob loss because the position is no longer needed
severancenounCompensation paid after involuntary job loss
compensationnounTotal pay and benefits received for work
salarynounFixed regular payment for employment
wagenounPayment based on hours or amount of work
bonusnounExtra payment for good performance
incentivenounReward to encourage better work
payrollnounSystem for paying employees6
overtimenounWork beyond regular hours, often paid extra
benefitsnounExtra advantages like health insurance
insurancenounProtection against risks, often health-related
health plannounInsurance covering medical expenses
dentalnoun/adjInsurance or care related to teeth
visionnounInsurance or care related to eyesight
retirementnounPeriod after finishing work permanently
pensionnounRegular payment after retirement
401(k)nounU.S. retirement savings plan
stock optionnounRight to buy company shares at a set price
paid leavenounTime off with pay
sick leavenounPaid time off for illness
vacationnounPaid time off for holidays or rest
holidaynounOfficial day off work
attendancenounRecord of being present at work
time sheetnounRecord of hours worked
clock-inverbRegister arrival time at work
clock-outverbRegister departure time from work
dress codenounRules about what to wear at work
code of conductnounRules for workplace behavior
grievancenounFormal complaint by an employee
disputenounConflict or disagreement at work
mediationnounResolving disputes with a neutral third party
arbitrationnounSettling disputes through a binding decision
diversitynounInclusion of people from different backgrounds
inclusionnounEnsuring everyone is welcomed and valued
equal opportunitynounFair chance for all employees
harassmentnounUnwanted behavior causing distress at work
discriminationnounUnfair treatment based on personal characteristics6
compliancenounFollowing laws and regulations
labor lawnounLegal rules governing employment
unionnounOrganization representing workers
collective bargainingnounNegotiation between employer and union
job descriptionnounList of duties and responsibilities for a job
responsibilitiesnounTasks expected in a job
dutiesnounSpecific tasks assigned to a position
skillsnounAbilities needed for a job
qualificationsnounEducation, skills, and experience required
experiencenounPrevious work or relevant activities
reference checknounContacting references to verify information
probation periodnounInitial trial period for new employees
exit interviewnounMeeting with departing employee for feedback
succession plannounStrategy for filling key roles in the future
talent managementnounAttracting and developing skilled employees
workforcenounAll employees in a company
staffingnounProcess of hiring employees
headcountnounNumber of employees
manpowernounAvailable workers
job fairnounEvent for employers to meet job seekers
recruitment agencynounCompany that helps find suitable employees
headhunternounPerson or firm that finds candidates for high-level jobs
temporary staffnounEmployees hired for a short period
contractornounPerson or company hired for a specific project
freelancernounSelf-employed person working for various clients
internshipnounTemporary work for students or trainees
apprenticeshipnounTraining program combining work and study

Finance and Banking Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
accountnounRecord of financial transactions, often in banking dialogs or statements
balancenounAmount of money in an account
depositnoun/verbMoney placed into a bank account; the act of adding funds
withdrawalnounTaking money out of a bank account
transfernoun/verbMoving money between accounts
transactionnounAny financial activity (deposit, withdrawal, payment)
statementnounMonthly summary of account activity
check/chequenounWritten order to pay money from an account
ATMnounAutomated Teller Machine for cash withdrawals
debit cardnounCard used to pay directly from a bank account
credit cardnounCard allowing purchases on credit
PINnounPersonal Identification Number for security
interest ratenounPercentage charged or earned on money
loannounMoney borrowed from a bank or lender
mortgagenounLoan specifically for buying property
overdraftnounSpending more than the account balance allows
savingsnounMoney set aside, often in a savings account
investmentnounMoney put into stocks, bonds, or other ventures
portfolionounCollection of investments
bondnounFixed income investment, often in reading passages
stocknounShare of ownership in a company
sharenounUnit of stock
dividendnounProfit paid to shareholders
capitalnounMoney for investment or business
equitynounOwnership value in a company
assetnounAnything valuable owned by a company
liabilitynounDebt or obligation
revenuenounTotal income from sales
incomenounMoney received, especially for work or investments
profitnounEarnings after expenses
lossnounWhen expenses exceed earnings
expensenounCost incurred in business operations
budgetnounFinancial plan for income and spending
forecastnoun/verbPredicting future financial trends
auditnounOfficial inspection of financial records
invoicenounBill sent for goods or services
receiptnounProof of payment
billnounStatement of money owed
paymentnounAct of paying money
remittancenounSending money, especially to another country
wire transfernounElectronic transfer of funds
currencynounSystem of money in use (dollar, euro, etc.)
exchange ratenounValue of one currency compared to another
foreign exchangenounTrading of different currencies
bank feenounCharge for banking services
commissionnounFee for service, often in sales or banking
collateralnounAsset pledged as security for a loan
guaranteenounPromise to pay if someone else defaults
credit ratingnounScore indicating creditworthiness
credit limitnounMaximum amount allowed on a credit account
debtnounMoney owed to others
repaymentnounPaying back borrowed money
installmentnounRegular payment as part of a series
maturitynounDate when a loan or bond must be paid back
principalnounOriginal amount of a loan
yieldnounEarnings from an investment
returnnounProfit from an investment
risknounPossibility of loss in investment
diversificationnounSpreading investments to reduce risk
financial reportnounDocument summarizing financial status
balance sheetnounStatement of assets and liabilities
income statementnounDocument showing profit or loss
cash flownounMovement of money in and out of a business
fiscal yearnoun12-month period for accounting purposes
quarternounThree-month business period
taxnounMoney paid to the government
deductionnounAmount subtracted from taxable income
exemptionnounIncome not subject to tax
refundnounMoney returned, often from overpayment
financial advisornounProfessional giving financial guidance
bankernounPerson working at a bank
tellernounBank employee handling transactions
branchnounLocal office of a bank
online bankingnounManaging accounts via the internet
mobile bankingnounManaging accounts via smartphone
secure transactionnounSafe exchange of money or information
fraudnounIllegal financial deception
securitynounProtection against theft or fraud
compliancenounFollowing financial laws and regulations
regulationnounOfficial rule governing financial operations
central banknounNational bank controlling monetary policy
monetary policynounGovernment actions to control money supply
inflationnounRise in prices, reducing money’s value
deflationnounDecrease in prices, increasing money’s value
recessionnounPeriod of economic decline
bailoutnounFinancial help to a failing business or economy
stimulusnounGovernment action to boost the economy
economic growthnounIncrease in a country’s production and income
GDPnounGross Domestic Product, measure of economic output
market trendnounGeneral direction of financial markets
financial crisisnounSudden, severe disruption in financial markets
solvencynounAbility to meet long-term financial obligations
liquiditynounAbility to quickly convert assets to cash
bankruptcynounLegal process for businesses unable to pay debts
restructuringnounReorganizing a company’s finances or operations

Travel and Transportation Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
itinerarynounPlanned schedule of travel events or destinations
reservationnounBooking in advance for flights, hotels, or services
bookingnounAct of reserving a ticket, room, or service
confirmationnounProof that a reservation or booking is accepted
ticketnounDocument or pass for travel or entry
boarding passnounDocument needed to board a plane
gatenounArea where passengers board their flight
terminalnounBuilding at an airport or station
check-innoun/verbProcess of registering for a flight or hotel
security checknounScreening for safety before boarding
customsnounOfficial check of goods and people entering a country
immigrationnounProcess of entering a country and checking documents
passportnounOfficial document for international travel
visanounOfficial permission to enter a country
baggagenounSuitcases and bags for travel
luggagenounAnother word for baggage
carry-onnounSmall bag allowed in the airplane cabin
overhead compartmentnounStorage space above airplane seats
aislenounPassageway between rows of seats
window seatnounSeat next to the window on a plane
direct flightnounFlight with no stops between origin and destination
layovernounStop between flights on a journey
connecting flightnounSecond flight needed to reach the final destination
departurenounLeaving time or place
arrivalnounReaching time or place
delaynounLater than scheduled time
cancellationnounAct of calling off a flight, booking, or reservation
announcementnounPublic message about schedules or changes
shuttlenounBus or van service between locations
taxinounCar for hire, often from airports or hotels
ride-sharenounApp-based car service (e.g., Uber, Lyft)
rental carnounVehicle hired for temporary use
public transportationnounBuses, trains, subways, etc., for general use
subwaynounUnderground train system
metronounCity train system, often underground
busnounLarge vehicle for public transport
trainnounRail vehicle for travel
platformnounArea where passengers board trains
farenounPrice paid for transportation
routenounPath or course taken from one place to another
schedulenounTimetable for departures and arrivals
timetablenounList of times for transportation services
mapnounVisual guide for navigation
GPSnounElectronic navigation system
navigationnounFinding the way to a destination
directionnounInstructions for reaching a place
intersectionnounPlace where roads cross
crosswalknounMarked path for pedestrians to cross a street
pedestriannounPerson walking, especially in city areas
trafficnounMovement of vehicles on roads
congestionnounOvercrowding, usually of vehicles
detournounAlternate route due to road closure
tollnounFee paid to use certain roads or bridges
parkingnounArea or act of leaving a vehicle
valetnounPerson who parks guests’ cars at hotels or restaurants
hotelnounPlace for travelers to stay overnight
accommodationnounLodging, such as hotels or hostels
roomnounPrivate space in a hotel or accommodation
suitenounLarger, often more luxurious hotel room
front desknounReception area in a hotel
conciergenounHotel staff who assist guests with services
amenitiesnounExtra features in hotels (pool, gym, Wi-Fi, etc.)
breakfastnounMorning meal, often included with hotel stay
check-outnoun/verbTime or act of leaving a hotel and paying
late check-outnounArranged time to leave hotel after normal check-out
housekeepingnounStaff responsible for cleaning hotel rooms
laundrynounWashing of clothes, often a hotel service
minibarnounSmall fridge in hotel room with drinks/snacks
wake-up callnounService to call guests at a set time
key cardnounElectronic card for room access
lobbynounMain entrance area in a hotel
elevatornounLift for moving between floors
luggage cartnounTrolley for transporting bags
bellhopnounHotel staff who carry guests’ luggage
guestnounPerson staying at a hotel
reservation numbernounUnique code for confirming a booking
confirmation emailnounEmail verifying a reservation
travel insurancenounProtection against travel-related risks
tournounOrganized trip or excursion
sightseeingnounVisiting interesting places as a tourist
excursionnounShort trip or outing, often organized
guidenounPerson leading a tour
group tournounTour with multiple participants
packagenounCombined travel services (flight + hotel, etc.)
cruisenounVacation trip on a ship
ferrynounBoat for carrying people or vehicles across water
boardingnounAct of getting on a plane, train, or ship
disembarkverbGet off a plane, train, or ship
travel agencynounBusiness that arranges travel services
passport controlnounArea where passports are checked at borders
customs declarationnounForm listing items brought into a country
lost and foundnounPlace for recovering lost items
emergency contactnounPerson to contact in case of emergency
medical assistancenounHelp for health issues while traveling

Health and Healthcare Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
appointmentnounScheduled meeting with a doctor or specialist
check-upnounRoutine medical examination
consultationnounMeeting with a healthcare professional for advice
diagnosisnounIdentification of an illness or condition
prescriptionnounWritten order for medication
medicationnounMedicine prescribed by a doctor
pharmacynounPlace where medicines are dispensed
pharmacistnounProfessional who prepares and gives out medicines
over-the-counteradjMedicines available without a prescription
dosagenounAmount and frequency of medication
side effectnounUnintended reaction to medication
allergynounNegative reaction to substances like food or medicine
symptomnounSign or indication of illness
treatmentnounMedical care for an illness or injury
therapynounTreatment method, often ongoing (physical, speech, etc.)
vaccinationnounInjection to prevent disease
immunizationnounProcess of becoming protected against disease
preventionnounSteps taken to avoid illness
screeningnounTest to detect potential health problems
testnounMedical procedure to check health
resultnounOutcome of a medical test
referralnounRecommendation to see a specialist
specialistnounDoctor with advanced training in a specific area
general practitionernounFamily doctor providing general care
nursenounHealthcare professional assisting doctors and patients
surgeonnounDoctor who performs operations
operationnounSurgical procedure
surgerynounMedical procedure involving an operation
anesthesianounMedicine to prevent pain during surgery
recoverynounPeriod of getting better after illness or surgery
dischargenounRelease from a hospital or clinic
follow-upnounSubsequent visit or check after treatment
emergencynounSerious, unexpected medical situation
ambulancenounVehicle for transporting sick or injured people
paramedicnounEmergency medical responder
first aidnounImmediate care for an injury or illness
urgent carenounMedical service for non-life-threatening emergencies
ER (emergency room)nounHospital department for urgent medical care
hospitalnounLarge healthcare facility
clinicnounSmaller medical center for outpatient care
healthcare facilitynounAny place providing medical services
insurancenounFinancial protection for healthcare expenses
coveragenounRange of services an insurance policy pays for
claimnounRequest for insurance payment
deductiblenounAmount paid out-of-pocket before insurance covers the rest
co-paynounFixed fee paid for medical services
policynounInsurance contract
premiumnounRegular payment for insurance coverage
benefitnounService or payment provided by insurance
networknounGroup of healthcare providers under an insurance plan
providernounDoctor, hospital, or clinic offering healthcare
in-networkadjProvider covered by insurance at lower cost
out-of-networkadjProvider not covered or covered at higher cost
pre-authorizationnounApproval from insurance before certain treatments
wellnessnounOverall health and well-being
fitnessnounPhysical health and exercise
exercisenounPhysical activity for health
nutritionnounFood and nourishment for health
dietnounUsual food and drink consumed
healthy lifestylenounHabits promoting good health
mental healthnounEmotional and psychological well-being
counselingnounProfessional advice for personal or mental health issues
stressnounMental or emotional strain
burnoutnounExtreme fatigue from prolonged stress
sick leavenounTime off work due to illness
medical certificatenounDocument confirming illness for leave
occupational healthnounHealth and safety in the workplace
workplace safetynounPractices to prevent injury at work
accidentnounUnplanned event causing injury
injurynounPhysical harm or damage
rehabilitationnounRecovery process after injury or illness
physical therapynounTreatment to restore movement and function
chronicadjLong-lasting (as in chronic illness)
acuteadjSudden and severe (as in acute pain)
contagiousadjAble to be spread from person to person
quarantinenounIsolation to prevent disease spread
isolationnounSeparation from others due to illness
pandemicnounWidespread outbreak of a disease
vaccination recordnounDocument listing received vaccines
health checknounGeneral medical examination
medical historynounRecord of past illnesses and treatments
blood testnounLaboratory analysis of blood
X-raynounImaging test to view inside the body
MRInounMagnetic Resonance Imaging, advanced body scan
CT scannounComputed Tomography scan, detailed body imaging
lab resultsnounOutcomes of medical tests from a laboratory

Housing and Corporate Property

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
real estatenounProperty consisting of land or buildings
propertynounPiece of land or building owned or rented
leasenoun/verbContract to rent property; act of renting
rentalnounProperty available for rent
tenantnounPerson renting property
landlordnounOwner of property rented to tenants
agreementnounFormal contract between tenant and landlord
contractnounLegal document outlining rental terms
depositnounMoney paid in advance as security for rent
rentnoun/verbPayment for use of property; to pay for use
utilitiesnounServices like water, electricity, gas, internet
maintenancenounUpkeep and repair of property
repairnoun/verbFixing something that is broken
service requestnounFormal request for maintenance or repair
inspectionnounOfficial check of property condition
inventorynounList of items or furnishings in a property
furnishingsnounFurniture and equipment in a property
appliancenounDevice or machine in a property (fridge, oven, etc.)
air conditioningnounSystem for cooling property
heatingnounSystem for warming property
plumbingnounSystem of pipes for water and waste
electricaladjRelated to electricity in a property
elevatornounLift for moving between floors
securitynounMeasures to protect property and people
accessnounAbility to enter or use property
parkingnounArea for vehicles
garagenounEnclosed parking area
storagenounSpace for keeping items
facilitynounBuilding or area for a specific purpose
amenitiesnounExtra features (gym, pool, etc.) in a property
gymnounExercise facility
poolnounSwimming pool
laundrynounWashing facilities or service
conciergenounStaff member who assists residents or guests
front desknounReception area in a building
lobbynounMain entrance area
common areanounShared space for all residents
cleaningnounAct of making property clean
janitornounPerson who cleans and maintains property
pest controlnounService to remove insects or rodents
landscapingnounMaintenance of outdoor areas
renovationnounMajor improvements to property
remodelingnounChanging the structure or layout of property
constructionnounBuilding new structures
blueprintnounDetailed architectural plan
permitnounOfficial permission for construction or renovation
zoningnounLegal rules for land use
regulationnounOfficial rule regarding property
compliancenounFollowing property laws and regulations
insurancenounProtection against property risks
coveragenounWhat an insurance policy includes
claimnounRequest for insurance payment
property taxnounTax paid on property ownership
mortgagenounLoan to buy property
appraisalnounProfessional evaluation of property value
valuationnounEstimation of property’s worth
market pricenounCurrent value of property in the market
listingnounProperty advertised for sale or rent
brokernounPerson arranging property sales or rentals
agentnounReal estate professional assisting buyers or renters
showingnounAppointment to view a property
open housenounEvent where property is open for viewing
offernounProposal to buy or rent property
negotiationnounDiscussion to reach agreement on price or terms
closingnounFinalizing a property sale or lease
titlenounLegal ownership document for property
deednounLegal paper transferring property ownership
ownershipnounState of owning property
co-opnounCooperative housing arrangement
condominiumnounIndividually owned apartment in a building
homeowners associationnounGroup managing shared property or amenities
feesnounPayments for services or amenities
bylawsnounRules for property management or associations
evictionnounLegal removal of a tenant
noticenounWritten warning or information, often about moving or repairs
move-innounAct of starting to live in a property
move-outnounAct of leaving a property
relocationnounMoving to a new place, often for work
corporate housingnounAccommodation provided by an employer
serviced apartmentnounFurnished apartment with hotel-like services
subletverb/nounRent a property to another person; the act of doing so
roommatenounPerson sharing a living space
shared accommodationnounHousing shared with others
cablenounTV service in a property
internetnounOnline access service
phonenounTelephone service in a property
maintenance schedulenounPlanned timetable for property upkeep
emergency repairnounUrgent fix needed to prevent damage
fire safetynounMeasures to prevent and respond to fires
evacuation plannounInstructions for leaving property safely in an emergency

Entertainment and Dining Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
restaurantnounPlace to eat meals, often in business or travel dialogs
cafénounSmall, casual place for drinks and snacks
bistronounSmall, informal restaurant
dinernounCasual restaurant, often American-style
buffetnounSelf-serve meal with many options
cateringnounFood service for events or meetings
reservationnounBooking a table at a restaurant
bookingnounAct of reserving a table or event seat
tablenounPlace to sit and eat in a restaurant
menunounList of food and drinks available
appetizernounSmall dish served before the main course
entréenounMain course (US), starter (elsewhere)
main coursenounPrimary dish in a meal
dessertnounSweet course served at the end of a meal
beveragenounDrink, often non-alcoholic
drinknounAny liquid refreshment
wine listnounMenu of available wines
cocktailnounMixed alcoholic drink
bartendernounPerson who prepares and serves drinks
waiternounMale server in a restaurant
waitressnounFemale server in a restaurant
servernounGeneral term for restaurant staff serving food
billnounStatement of charges at a restaurant
checknounAnother term for the bill, especially in the US
tipnounExtra money given for good service
gratuitynounFormal word for tip
split the billphraseEach person pays their share of the total
takeoutnounFood ordered to eat elsewhere
deliverynounFood brought to your location
ordernoun/verbRequest for food or drink; act of requesting
specialnounDish offered for a limited time
daily specialnounDish available only on certain days
set menunounFixed selection of dishes at a set price
à la carteadjOrdering individual dishes separately
cuisinenounStyle or type of cooking
dishnounSpecific food item on a menu
ingredientnounFood item used to make a dish
allergynounReaction to certain foods
dietary restrictionnounLimitation on what someone can eat
vegetariannoun/adjPerson who doesn’t eat meat; meat-free food
vegannoun/adjPerson who avoids all animal products; food without animal products
gluten-freeadjFood without gluten
lactose-freeadjFood without lactose
spicyadjFood with strong, hot flavor
mildadjFood with gentle flavor, not spicy
portionnounAmount of food served
servingnounIndividual amount of food
utensilsnounTools for eating (fork, knife, spoon)
cutlerynounKnives, forks, and spoons
napkinnounCloth or paper for wiping mouth and hands
platenounFlat dish for serving food
glassnounContainer for drinks
cupnounSmall container for hot drinks
bowlnounDeep dish for soup or salad
traynounFlat surface for carrying food or drinks
eventnounOrganized occasion, such as a party or meeting
social gatheringnounInformal event for people to meet
networkingnounMeeting people for business connections
receptionnounFormal gathering, often after meetings or ceremonies
banquetnounLarge formal meal for many people
galanounElegant social event, often with dinner and entertainment
cocktail partynounSocial event with drinks and appetizers
corporate eventnounBusiness-related gathering
team buildingnounActivities to improve teamwork
celebrationnounEvent to mark a special occasion
anniversarynounYearly celebration of a past event
birthdaynounCelebration of a person’s birth date
retirement partynounEvent honoring someone leaving work
invitationnounRequest to attend an event
RSVPverb/nounRequest for a reply to an invitation; the reply itself
guest listnounList of people invited to an event
hostnounPerson organizing or leading an event
organizernounPerson responsible for planning an event
venuenounPlace where an event is held
entertainmentnounActivities or performances for enjoyment
performancenounAct of entertaining, such as music or theater
live musicnounMusic performed in person
shownounPerformance or event, such as a concert or play
concertnounLive music event
theaternounPlace for plays or performances
movienounFilm shown in a cinema
screeningnounShowing of a movie or film
exhibitionnounPublic display of art or objects
art gallerynounPlace displaying visual art
museumnounPlace exhibiting historical or cultural items
cultural activitynounEvent related to arts, music, or traditions
sightseeingnounVisiting famous or interesting places
tournounGuided visit to a place or city
client hospitalitynounEntertaining clients as part of business
business lunchnounMeal with colleagues or clients for business purposes
dinner meetingnounBusiness meeting held over dinner
after-work drinksnounSocializing with colleagues after office hours

Manufacturing and Production Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
productionnounThe process of making goods in a factory or plant
manufacturingnounLarge-scale production of goods
assembly linenounSystem where products are put together step by step
factorynounBuilding where goods are produced
plantnounIndustrial site for manufacturing
facilitynounPlace or building for a specific purpose
machinerynounLarge machines used in production
equipmentnounTools or machines needed for a job
toolnounHand-held device for making or repairing things
operatornounPerson who runs machines
techniciannounSkilled worker who maintains or repairs equipment
engineernounProfessional who designs or manages production systems
supervisornounPerson overseeing workers or processes
shiftnounScheduled working period
schedulenounPlan for when tasks or shifts occur
outputnounAmount of goods produced
capacitynounMaximum amount a facility can produce
efficiencynounDoing tasks with minimal waste
productivitynounRate of output per worker or machine
quality controlnounEnsuring products meet standards
inspectionnounChecking products for quality or safety
testingnounProcess of checking function or quality
defectnounFault or problem in a product
defectiveadjNot working or made incorrectly
rejectnoun/verbProduct that fails quality checks; to refuse a product
reworknoun/verbCorrecting a defective product
scrapnounMaterial or product not usable
wastenounUnused or discarded material
raw materialnounBasic material used to make products
componentnounPart of a larger product
partnounPiece of a machine or product
inventorynounStock of goods or materials
stocknounSupply of items available for use or sale
supplynounAmount of something available
ordernounRequest for goods or materials
procurementnounProcess of obtaining goods or services
sourcingnounFinding suppliers for materials
suppliernounCompany providing goods or materials
vendornounSeller or provider of products
deliverynounAct of bringing goods to a location
shipmentnounBatch of goods sent together
logisticsnounCoordination of supply, delivery, and storage
warehousenounBuilding for storing goods
storagenounKeeping goods until needed
packagingnounMaterials used to wrap or protect products
labelingnounAttaching information to products
barcodenounMachine-readable code for tracking products
safetynounMeasures to prevent accidents
accidentnounUnplanned event causing damage or injury
incidentnounEvent, often minor, that affects safety or production
emergencynounSerious situation needing immediate action
maintenancenounRegular care to keep equipment working
repairnounFixing broken equipment
downtimenounPeriod when production stops
breakdownnounFailure of equipment
upgradenoun/verbImprovement to equipment or processes
automationnounUse of machines to perform tasks automatically
roboticsnounUse of robots in manufacturing
innovationnounNew ideas or technology in production
process improvementnounMaking production steps more efficient
lean manufacturingnounProduction method focused on reducing waste
Six SigmanounQuality management method to reduce defects
standardnounAccepted level of quality or performance
regulationnounOfficial rule for manufacturing
compliancenounMeeting legal or industry standards
certificationnounOfficial proof of meeting standards
ISOnounInternational Organization for Standardization certification
documentationnounWritten records and instructions
reportnounWritten account of production or issues
recordnounDocumented information about production
batchnounGroup of items produced together
lotnounSet of products made or sold together
samplenounSmall quantity for testing
specificationnounDetailed description of requirements
tolerancenounAllowed variation in product dimensions
measurementnounProcess of determining size or quantity
calibrationnounAdjusting equipment for accuracy
performancenounHow well a machine or process works
yieldnounAmount of usable product produced
throughputnounRate at which products are made
bottlenecknounStage that slows down production
lead timenounTime from order to delivery
cycle timenounTime to complete one production cycle
continuous improvementnounOngoing efforts to improve processes

Technical and IT Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
computernounElectronic device for processing information; common in office scenarios
PCnounPersonal computer, used in business and IT contexts
laptopnounPortable computer for work or travel
desktopnounStationary computer for office use
monitornounScreen for displaying computer output
keyboardnounDevice for typing on a computer
mousenounHandheld device for moving a cursor
touchpadnounBuilt-in pointing device on laptops
USBnounUniversal Serial Bus; port for connecting devices
portnounConnection point for cables or devices
cablenounWire for connecting devices or power
chargernounDevice for recharging batteries
batterynounPower source for portable devices
softwarenounPrograms and applications for computers
application (app)nounSpecific software program (e.g., word processor, email client)
programnounSet of instructions for a computer
operating systemnounMain software managing computer hardware (e.g., Windows, macOS)
updatenoun/verbNew version or improvement to software
upgradenoun/verbImproved version of hardware or software
installationnounProcess of adding software to a computer
uninstallverbRemove software from a computer
setupnoun/verbInitial configuration of a device or program
configurationnounArrangement of settings or components
settingsnounAdjustable options in software or hardware
networknounSystem connecting computers and devices
servernounComputer managing network resources
databasenounOrganized collection of data
cloudnounOnline storage or services accessed via the internet
storagenounSpace for saving data
backupnoun/verbCopy of data for safety; to make a copy
restoreverbReturn data to its original state
datanounInformation stored or processed by computers
filenounDigital document or piece of data
foldernounVirtual container for files
documentnounWritten or digital file
spreadsheetnounTable-based software for calculations (e.g., Excel)
presentationnounSlide show for meetings or reports (e.g., PowerPoint)
emailnounElectronic message for communication
attachmentnounFile sent with an email
downloadverb/nounTransfer files from the internet to a device
uploadverb/nounSend files from a device to the internet
bandwidthnounData transfer capacity of a network
firewallnounSecurity system blocking unauthorized access
antivirusnounSoftware protecting against viruses
malwarenounMalicious software harming computers
virusnounHarmful program that damages data
phishingnounFraudulent attempt to get sensitive information
spamnounUnwanted or junk email
encryptionnounCoding data to protect information
passwordnounSecret word for account access
authenticationnounProcess of verifying identity
accessnoun/verbAbility to use or enter a system
usernounPerson using a computer or software
accountnounPersonal profile for accessing systems
loginnoun/verbProcess of entering username and password
logoutverbTo exit an account or system
credentialsnounUsername and password for access
permissionnounAuthorization to use files or features
administratornounPerson managing systems or networks
IT supportnounTechnical help for computer problems
helpdesknounService providing user support
troubleshootingnounProcess of finding and fixing problems
bugnounError or flaw in software
errornounMistake or malfunction in a program
patchnounSoftware update fixing bugs
fixnoun/verbSolution for a problem; to repair
crashverb/nounSudden failure of a program or system
rebootverbRestart a computer or device
restartverbAnother term for reboot
connectivitynounAbility to connect to the internet or network
Wi-FinounWireless internet connection
LANnounLocal Area Network for connecting computers nearby
VPNnounVirtual Private Network for secure remote access
remote accessnounAbility to use a computer from a distant location
teleconferencenounMeeting via phone or internet
video callnounMeeting using video communication tools
screen sharingnounShowing your computer screen to others online
printernounDevice for printing documents
scannernounDevice for digitizing documents
peripheralnounExternal device connected to a computer
compatibilitynounAbility of software/hardware to work together
integrationnounCombining systems or software
digitaladjInvolving computers or electronic technology
onlineadj/advConnected to or available via the internet
websitenounCollection of web pages on the internet
browsernounProgram for accessing websites (e.g., Chrome, Firefox)
linknounClickable reference to another web page
URLnounWeb address
homepagenounMain page of a website
cybersecuritynounProtection of computer systems from threats
breachnounSecurity failure exposing data
threatnounPotential danger to computer security
vulnerabilitynounWeakness in a system that can be exploited
compliancenounFollowing IT laws and regulations
GDPRnounGeneral Data Protection Regulation (EU data privacy law)
privacynounProtection of personal or sensitive information
policynounOfficial rules for IT and data management

Purchasing and Supplies Vocabulary

WordTypeUse in TOEIC
procurementnounThe process of obtaining goods and services
purchasingnounBuying products or services for a business
sourcingnounFinding suppliers for needed items
ordernoun/verbRequest for goods; to ask for goods or services
requisitionnounFormal request for items or services
purchase ordernounOfficial document to buy goods
invoicenounBill sent for payment after purchase
receiptnounProof of payment received
suppliernounCompany providing goods or materials
vendornounSeller of goods or services
quotationnounPrice offer for goods or services
bidnounOffer to provide goods/services at a certain price
tendernounFormal offer to supply goods/services
contractnounLegal agreement for supply or service
agreementnounFormal arrangement between parties
negotiationnounDiscussion to reach agreement on price or terms
termsnounConditions of a contract or agreement
deliverynounBringing goods to a location
shipmentnounBatch of goods sent together
logisticsnounCoordination of delivery and storage
freightnounGoods transported in bulk
cargonounGoods carried by ship, plane, or truck
warehousenounBuilding for storing products
inventorynounStock of goods available
stocknounQuantity of goods on hand
supplynounAmount of product available
demandnounCustomer need or desire for a product
shortagenounNot enough supply to meet demand
surplusnounMore supply than needed
reorderverbOrder more of a product
lead timenounTime from order to delivery
backordernounOrder for an item not currently in stock
fulfillmentnounCompleting and delivering an order
packagingnounMaterials used to wrap or protect products
labelingnounAttaching information to products
barcodenounMachine-readable code for tracking products
trackingnounMonitoring the location of a shipment
shippingnounSending goods to a destination
carriernounCompany that transports goods
couriernounPerson or service delivering packages
dispatchnoun/verbSending goods out for delivery; the act of sending
distributionnounDelivering products to various locations
returnnoun/verbSending goods back to the seller
refundnounMoney returned for a returned item
replacementnounNew item provided in place of a faulty one
warrantynounGuarantee to repair or replace a product
guaranteenoun/verbPromise of product quality; to assure quality
paymentnounAct of paying for goods or services
methodnounWay of making payment (credit, cash, etc.)
creditnounPayment method allowing delayed payment
debitnounPayment taken directly from a bank account
cashnounPhysical money
accountnounCustomer or company financial record
balancenounAmount of money in an account
transactionnounAny business exchange or deal
approvalnounPermission to proceed with a purchase
authorizationnounOfficial permission for an action
budgetnounFinancial plan for spending
costnounAmount paid for something
pricenounAmount charged for a product or service
discountnounReduced price
offernounSpecial price or deal
promotionnounTemporary price reduction or special deal
bulknounLarge quantity
wholesalenounSelling goods in large quantities at lower prices
retailnounSelling goods directly to consumers
retail pricenounPrice charged to customers
unit pricenounPrice per single item
catalognounBook or online list of available products
productnounItem for sale
itemnounIndividual product or unit
SKUnounStock Keeping Unit; unique product code
specificationnounDetailed description of a product
samplenounSmall amount of product for testing
qualitynounStandard of product excellence
inspectionnounChecking products for quality or defects
compliancenounMeeting rules or standards
regulationnounOfficial rule for business or trade
importverb/nounBring goods into a country; the act of doing so
exportverb/nounSend goods to another country; the act of doing so
customsnounGovernment office checking goods crossing borders
dutynounTax paid on imports or exports
clearancenounOfficial permission for goods to enter or leave a country
documentationnounRequired paperwork for transactions
certificatenounOfficial document proving compliance or quality
insurancenounProtection against loss or damage
claimnounRequest for insurance payment
damagenounHarm to goods during shipping or storage
lossnounGoods missing or destroyed
customer servicenounHelp provided to customers before and after purchase
supportnounAssistance with products or services
after-salesadjServices provided after purchase
maintenancenounOngoing care or repair of equipment
service contractnounAgreement for regular maintenance or support

How to Use the TOEIC Word List Effectively

Building a strong TOEIC vocabulary is not just about memorizing words—it’s about using smart, proven techniques to make those words stick and applying them in real test scenarios. Here’s how you can get the most out of your TOEIC word list and turn vocabulary practice into real score improvements.

Spaced Repetition Learning Technique

Spaced repetition is a powerful method to help you remember TOEIC vocabulary for the long term. This technique involves reviewing words at increasing intervals, which strengthens your memory and makes forgetting less likely.

  • Set up a systematic review schedule. Don’t cram all your study into one session. Instead, review your word list regularly, with more time between each review as you become more familiar with the words.
  • Create digital or physical flashcards. Flashcards are one of the best ways to use spaced repetition. You can make your own with paper or use digital tools that automatically schedule reviews for you.
  • Use apps that incorporate spaced repetition. Many language learning apps, such as Anki or eJOY English, are designed to help you review vocabulary at optimal intervals, focusing more on the words you struggle with.
  • Track your learning progress. Monitor which words you know well and which need more practice. This helps you focus your efforts and see your improvement over time.

Research shows that using spaced repetition with a TOEIC word list can lead to significant gains in both listening and reading scores, making it one of the most effective strategies for test preparation.

Context-Based Learning Methods

Learning vocabulary in context helps you understand how words are used in real business situations, making them easier to remember and apply on the TOEIC test.

  • Learn words through sample TOEIC sentences. Seeing vocabulary in sentences similar to those on the test helps you recognize them during the exam and understand their meaning in context.
  • Create your example sentences. Writing your sentences using new words reinforces your understanding and helps you remember how to use them correctly.
  • Use vocabulary in practice conversations. Try using new words when speaking with classmates or language partners. This builds confidence and fluency.
  • Associate words with realistic business scenarios. Imagine situations from the TOEIC—like meetings, emails, or negotiations—and use your vocabulary list to describe what’s happening. This makes learning more relevant and memorable.

Conclusion

Mastering the TOEIC means building a strong vocabulary across every business topic you might encounter on the test. Systematic study—using proven techniques like spaced repetition and context-based learning—ensures you’re prepared for questions in meetings, finance, travel, HR, and more. The more familiar you are with the language of real business scenarios, the more confident and successful you’ll be on exam day.

Regular practice with these 3,000+ essential TOEIC vocabulary words is one of the fastest ways to improve your test performance. Don’t wait—download our complete, free TOEIC word list now and start practicing today. The sooner you begin, the sooner you’ll see real results in your TOEIC score!

Access 1,242+ language lessons. Instantly.
Start Learning →
crossmenu linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram