Cambridge International · IGCSE · 0500
English Language — Keywords & Key Terms — Definitions Glossary (2026)
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (0500)
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 IGCSE English Language (0500)
Cambridge International IGCSE English Language (0500)
Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (0500)
Aligned to Cambridge IGCSE First Language English 0500 (2026): reading (comprehension, summary, analysis), writing (narrative, descriptive, argumentative), and directed writing — exact papers depend on route.
Mark schemes: Reading: quote briefly and precisely; infer only what the text supports. Summary: own words; point marks for distinct ideas. Writing: register, purpose, audience; paragraphing and cohesion. Examiner reports flag vague inference, overwriting summary, and ignoring question focus.
Active recall: 0 / 13 terms ticked
| Recalled | Topic | Level | Keyword | Definition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reading & analysis | Essential | Explicit meaning | Stated directly in the text. | |
| Reading & analysis | Core | Inference | Reasonable conclusion supported by clues. | |
| Reading & analysis | Core | Tone | Writer’s attitude conveyed through word choice. | |
| Reading & analysis | Core | Register | Level of formality — formal vs informal. | |
| Reading & analysis | Core | Narrative perspective | First/third person; limited or omniscient. | |
| Reading & analysis | Core | Figurative language | Simile, metaphor, personification — effect on reader. | |
| Reading & analysis | Advanced | Connotation | Associations of a word beyond dictionary definition. | |
| Writing & rhetoric | Core | Purpose | Inform, persuade, entertain, argue — shapes structure. | |
| Writing & rhetoric | Core | Audience | Who will read — affects vocabulary and tone. | |
| Writing & rhetoric | Core | Discourse marker | However, therefore, furthermore — cohesion. | |
| Writing & rhetoric | Core | Topic sentence | Introduces paragraph’s main idea. | |
| Writing & rhetoric | Core | Counter-argument | Acknowledge opposing view before rebuttal. | |
| Writing & rhetoric | Advanced | Rhetorical question / repetition | Devices to persuade or emphasise. |
Pair this with our revision checklists, formula sheets hub and past paper finder.
English Language (0500) — Keywords & Key Terms FAQ
- What is on this Cambridge International IGCSE 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 IGCSE First Language English (0500) (0500). 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 IGCSE English Language (0500) 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 0500 specification?
- Topic groupings and wording follow Cambridge IGCSE First Language English (0500) for Cambridge International IGCSE. 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 IGCSE, separate from longer notes or topic trackers.