Demure - Word of the Day for IELTS Writing and Speaking

In the English language, certain words carry not just meaning, but also a tone, and even a personality. One such word is “demure” and unlike common adjectives such as “shy” or “quiet,” the word “demure” paints a more refined picture. 

“Demure” is a graceful and slightly old-fashioned word that was used to describe someone, usually a woman who appears modest, calm, reserved and well-behaved. Due to its subtle nature, this word “demure” can bring a natural tendency and sophistication to your IELTS Speaking and Writing expressions.

Get set to start learning all about this word to enhance your IELTS exam preparation now! 

Meaning of “Demure”

“Demure” is an adjective that describes a modest and reserved, or quietly charming manner. This often refers to someone who behaves politely, tries and avoids attracting attention, and maintains a gentle, calm attitude. 

Although throughout the years “demure” was a word used for women, in the modern English language this can also describe behaviour, clothing, or an overall impression of modesty.

• For example: “She gave a demure smile throughout her presentation.”

The word “demure” shows calmness and an understated grace.

Origin of the Word “Demure”

The origin of the word “demure” can be traced back to the early 14th century, possibly from the Old French demorer, meaning “to delay, to stay,” which then evolved to describe a calm and measured behaviour. 

Another theory suggests links to the Anglo-French phrase “demuré,” which means to be “well-mannered” or “sober.” Over the period, this word took on a sense of modesty and elegance, a meaning that has remained consistent in the modern English language. 

Using “Demure” in IELTS Writing Task 2

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, “demure” is less common than academic words like “significant” or “essential,” but it can also be useful when you write about topics related to culture, gender roles, fashion, or media. It adds a refined tone whenever you describe someone’s behaviour or appearance.

Example sentences for the IELTS Writing Task 2:

• Traditional societies often expect women to appear demure in public scenarios.
• Some individuals believe that modern media has reduced the emphasis on demure behaviour among youngsters.
• He is as good as his name, as wild, eccentric and ebullient as Keane is demure and disciplined.

Using a word like “demure” helps you show lexical precision when trying to describe attitudes and social expectations.

Using “Demure” in IELTS Speaking

In the IELTS Speaking test, “demure” is a word that can make your answers more vivid and expressive, especially in Part 2 (Cue Cards) where you will be describing people, events, or personal encounters. This works well for describing personalities, expressions, choices, or a person’s overall energy.

Examples for IELTS Speaking Part 2:

• My cousin is quite demure, and she speaks softly. She tends to prefer staying away from larger crowds.
• Her outfit looked elegant yet demure, and was also perfect for a formal ceremony.
• Old photos of Maggie show her young and demure
• She looked almost demure, she thought disparagingly, glaring at her reflection as if her dilemma were all the mirror’s fault.

Using the word “demure” naturally in your speaking test shows that you have control over descriptive vocabulary.

Common Collocations with “Demure”

• demure smile
• demure behaviour
• demure personality
• demure appearance 
• demure attitude
• demure gesture
• demure expression

These collocations are some common ones in literature, fashion writing, and descriptive language writing as well.

Synonyms of “Demure”

• modest
• reserved
• shy
• composed
• understated
• gentle
• quiet
• restrained
• soft-spoken

Antonyms of “Demure”

• bold
• confident
• assertive
• outspoken
• extroverted
• showy
• loud
• daring

Sample Sentences Using the Word “Demure” 

• Sheela’s demure personality made her stand out in a room full of loud noises.
• Her dress was elegant and demure, suitable for a formal dinner.
• Despite Reena’s demure appearance, she expressed her ideas with clarity and confidence.
• He admired her for being demure yet incredibly motivated.
• The actress portrayed a demure character who rarely spoke a word but observed everything.

Practice Exercise - Demure

Choose the following words to fill in the blank:

(demure, format, protocol, vision, manual, suspension, devotions, behalf, incompatible, mutual.)

1. Canadian sprinter Ben Johnson received a lengthy __________ from international competition after testing positive for steroids at the Seoul Olympics.
2. The environmental award was accepted by a grade 12 student on __________ of the school.
3. Many game shows in countries around the world follow the same __________ as popular American game shows.
4. Our Muslim students are permitted to leave class early on Fridays to practise their __________.
5. Because of the church’s treatment of Galileo, many people suggest that religion is __________ with science.
6. The deceptively _____________Meredith was led outside by the masked Lucenzo.
7. Some analysts suggest that __________ in the labour and goods markets are to blame for Europe’s poor economic performance.
8. __________ dependencies develop through the process of social interaction.
9. After he fell while skating, he found that he was dizzy, and his __________ was blurred.
10. I learned how to drive on a __________ transmission, so driving an automatic is easy for me.

Answer Key - Demure

1. suspension
2. behalf
3. format
4. devotions
5. incompatible.
6. demure.
7. protocol.
8. Mutual.
9. vision.
10. manual. 

Also Check: 

• Five Ways to Improve Your Vocabulary
• 1200 Common Words in IELTS Listening
• IELTS Vocabulary Words List for Band 8 or 9
• How to Build Vocabulary for the IELTS Exam: Practical Tips
• IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+