Master the Verb ‘Extol’ for IELTS Success
Learn how to use the powerful verb ‘extol’ to express strong admiration in your IELTS writing and speaking. Discover its meaning, origin, synonyms, and proper usage to enhance your vocabulary and impress examiners.
Imagine possessing a word that could elevate your ability to express admiration to new heights. Today, we’re exploring the powerful verb extol, a term that can significantly enhance your IELTS writing and speaking performance.
Word type: Extol is a verb.
Meaning: To extol means to praise enthusiastically and lavishly. It goes beyond simple approval, conveying a sense of high admiration or celebration of someone or something’s qualities or achievements.
Word history: The word extol has its roots in Latin. It comes from the Latin word extollere, which is formed from ex, meaning out or upward, and tollere, meaning to raise.
This etymology reflects the idea of raising someone or something up through praise.
Antonyms: The opposite of extol would be to criticize, condemn, or disparage.
While extol lifts something up, these words bring it down.
Synonyms: Some synonyms for extol include laud, acclaim, commend, eulogize, and glorify.
Each of these words carries a similar connotation of high praise, though extol often implies a more formal or public declaration of admiration.
Examples use in sentences: The critic extolled the virtues of the new novel, praising its intricate plot and vivid character development.
In her acceptance speech, the scientist extolled the collaborative efforts of her research team. History books often extol the achievements of great leaders while sometimes overlooking their flaws.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing extol with extoll. The correct spelling is extol with a single L. Another error is using it in casual contexts where it might sound overly formal.
Extol is best reserved for situations that warrant strong, earnest praise. To truly master the use of extol, remember its power lies in its formality and intensity.
It’s not just about liking something; it’s about singing its praises. By incorporating this word into your IELTS responses, you demonstrate a sophisticated vocabulary and a nuanced understanding of expressing admiration.
This precision and depth of language use is exactly what examiners look for in high-scoring responses.
