Cambridge International · International A Level · 9093
English Language — Keywords & Key Terms — Definitions Glossary (2026)
Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language (9093)
Topic-by-topic keywords, key terms and definitions for precise exam language—separate from our revision checklists (topic coverage) and formula sheets (equations).
Keywords & Key Terms — definitions
Examiner-style keywords and definitions organised by syllabus topic. Terms are tagged Essential (start here), Core (typical exam standard), and Advanced for harder distinctions — tick each row when you can recall it. Your progress is saved in this browser for this list.
Cambridge International International A Level English Language (9093)
Cambridge International International A Level English Language (9093)
Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language (9093)
Cambridge 9093 (2026) focuses on textual analysis, language variation (e.g. region, occupation), language change, and original writing — builds skills for commentary and directed transformation tasks.
Mark schemes: Text analysis: label grammatical terms accurately (clause, modality, cohesion). Link every feature to effect on reader or social meaning. Language change/variety: use frameworks (lexis, semantics, grammar, pragmatics). Original writing: match genre conventions. Examiner reports flag vague ‘creates effect’ without linguistic evidence.
Active recall: 0 / 11 terms ticked
| Recalled | Topic | Level | Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Language frameworks | Core | Lexis & semantics | Word choice, denotation, connotation, semantic field. | |
| Language frameworks | Core | Grammar & morphology | Tense, aspect, modality, sentence types. | |
| Language frameworks | Core | Phonology | Sound patterns — rhythm, rhyme, stress in spoken texts. | |
| Language frameworks | Core | Pragmatics | Implicature, politeness, context-dependent meaning. | |
| Language frameworks | Core | Discourse | Topic development, cohesion, coherence. | |
| Language frameworks | Advanced | Grice’s maxims | Quantity, quality, relation, manner — flouting for effect. | |
| Variation & change | Core | Standard vs non-standard English | Prestige vs covert prestige. | |
| Variation & change | Core | Sociolect / dialect | Social group vs regional variety. | |
| Variation & change | Core | Register | Field, tenor, mode — context of situation. | |
| Variation & change | Core | Language change mechanisms | Coinage, borrowing, semantic shift, euphemism. | |
| Variation & change | Advanced | Prescriptivism vs descriptivism | Rules vs observation — essay evaluation. |
Pair this with our revision checklists, formula sheets hub and past paper finder.
English Language (9093) — Keywords & Key Terms FAQ
- What is on this Cambridge International International A Level English Language keywords and key terms list?
- It is a topic-organised glossary of important english language terms with short, exam-style definitions aligned to Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language (9093) (9093). It is designed for “define”, “state”, “outline” and “explain” questions where precise vocabulary earns marks.
- How should I use this English Language glossary alongside past papers?
- Tick terms when you can recall them without reading the answer, then check your wording against mark schemes. Pair vocabulary practice with past papers for International A Level English Language (9093) so you apply terms in context.
- Is this the same as a revision checklist or a formula sheet?
- No. Revision checklists help you track which syllabus topics you have covered and your confidence—separate pages on Tutopiya. Formula sheets summarise equations and quantitative relationships. This page is only a definitions and key-terms glossary for English Language.
- Can I download this English Language keywords and key terms list for free?
- Yes. After a quick free sign-up you can download a UTF-8 CSV (opens in Excel or Google Sheets) or open a print-friendly page and save as PDF. Browsing the list on the page is free.
- Is this English Language list aligned to the 9093 specification?
- Topic groupings and wording follow Cambridge International AS & A Level English Language (9093) for Cambridge International International A Level. Always confirm final learning objectives and any regional options in your official specification and recent examiner reports for your exam session.
- Why focus on definitions instead of full notes?
- Mark schemes reward correct technical terms and clear links between ideas. A compact glossary lets you drill the exact language examiners expect for English Language at International A Level, separate from longer notes or topic trackers.