LibGuides: The University Writing Center (UWrite): Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon

Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon

Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon (OPAL)

The Oxford Phrasal Academic Lexicon (OPAL) is a collection of four different word lists that together provide an essential guide to the most important words in the field of English for Academic Purposes (EAP):

Written words
Spoken words
Written phrases
Spoken phrases

Suggestions for Using OPAL

Beginners. Look at sublist 1 of the written words to start building your essential academic vocabulary.

If you are faced with new words in a text or lecture, use the lists to search for these words, and then check their meaning in a dictionary.

Advanced. You might choose to jump directly to sublists 11 and 12 of the written word lists to consolidate your learning and extend your knowledge.

If you fall somewhere between these two extremes, browse the lists to find a suitable entry point. If you want to review your academic vocabulary, you can start at the beginning!

You can also use the PDF files to ensure you have a strong knowledge of essential academic vocabulary.

OPAL PDF Lists

Opal Written Single Words
This list gives the 1200 most important words in academic writing.
OPAL Spoken Single Words
This list gives the 600 most important words in academic speaking.
OPAL Written Phrases
This list gives around 370 important phrases for academic writing, grouped into 15 functional areas.
OPAL Spoken Phrases
This list gives around 250 important phrases for academic speaking, grouped into 16 functional areas.