30 UPSC Vocabulary Words for Economy, Ethics & GS Mains
Introduction
Mastering UPSC Mains Vocabulary is essential for framing high-quality answers in GS2, GS3, and Ethics (GS4) as well as enriching your essays. This handpicked list of 30 vocabulary words includes critical terms from economy, governance, ethics, and essay writing contexts. These are ideal for boosting marks, improving articulation, and adding depth to your mains preparation.
🧾 Thematic UPSC Vocabulary for GS2, Ethics & Essay
| Word | Meaning | Usage in UPSC Context | Theme |
|---|---|---|---|
| Agrarian | Related to land and agriculture | “Agrarian reforms are vital for rural development.” | Economy & Development |
| Allocate | Distribute resources for a purpose | “Funds were allocated for rural infrastructure.” | Governance / Economy |
| Allot | Officially assign | “Land was allotted for tribal welfare schemes.” | Governance / Development |
| Allowance | Periodic payment (DA, subsidies, etc.) | “The government revised the dearness allowance for employees.” | Economy / Welfare |
| Aliment | Food or nourishment | “Aliment security is vital to combat child malnutrition.” | Health / Nutrition |
| Alimentary | Related to nutrition/digestion | “Public schemes must address alimentary needs holistically.” | Health / Public Policy |
| Alimony | Legal financial support post-divorce | “Alimony reflects the socio-legal rights of women.” | Law / Society |
| Allegation | Accusation without proof | “Allegations of nepotism affected administrative credibility.” | Governance / Accountability |
| Allege | To claim without proof | “It was alleged that funds were misappropriated.” | Legal / Journalism |
| Alias | A false or assumed identity | “The suspect was found using an alias to evade arrest.” | Law / Criminal Justice |
| Alibi | Evidence proving presence elsewhere | “The accused provided an alibi confirmed by phone records.” | Law / Ethics |
| Alien | A foreign national | “Immigration laws determine the status of aliens in India.” | Governance / IR |
| Algorithm | Step-by-step computational procedure | “Algorithm-based governance ensures data-driven decisions.” | Science & Technology |
| Alchemy | Transformation or magical process (literal or metaphorical) | “The digital era is an alchemy of technology and policy.” | Science / Essay / Culture |
| Albino | A person lacking melanin pigmentation | “Albino awareness is essential for inclusive public health.” | Public Health / Biology |
| Allegiance | Loyalty or commitment | “Civil servants must uphold allegiance to constitutional values.” | Ethics & Integrity |
| Allure | Attractiveness or temptation | “The allure of power can corrupt ethical judgment.” | Ethics / Psychology |
| Allude | Indirectly refer | “The leader alluded to past failures in his speech.” | Ethics / Essay |
| Ally | A strategic partner | “India is a key ally in Indo-Pacific frameworks.” | IR / Diplomacy |
| Alienate | To isolate or exclude | “Unjust policies can alienate disadvantaged communities.” | Governance / Social Justice |
| Allegory | Symbolic narrative | “Tagore’s writings often use allegory to convey nationalism.” | Essay / Culture / GS1 |
| Alacrity | Cheerful willingness or eagerness | “The officer acted with alacrity during the relief operations.” | Ethics / Personality |
| Albeit | Though; even though | “The scheme succeeded, albeit with some logistical issues.” | Essay / Writing Skill |
| Align | To bring into agreement | “Policies must align with global SDG targets.” | Governance / Ethics / IR |
| Alike | Similar in nature | “Urban and rural poverty are alike in multidimensional impact.” | Essay / GS1 |
| Allay | To reduce fears or concerns | “Prompt communication helped allay public panic during the crisis.” | Ethics / Governance |
| Alight | To descend gently; metaphorical arrival of ideas | “An idea alighted in the policymaker’s mind to solve the crisis.” | Essay / Expression |
| Aloft | Upward; high in the air | “India’s digital economy soars aloft with innovation.” | Essay / Metaphor |
| Aliment | (Reinforced) Nutrition aspect | “Aliment programs are central to achieving zero hunger.” | Health / Economy |
| Alimony | (Reinforced for legal rights angle) | “Alimony laws reflect India’s diverse personal law systems.” | Law / Justice / GS2 |
✍️ Sample Practice Sentences Using UPSC Words
- Original: The funds were given to the district.
Improved: Resources were allocated to the district administration. - Original: He was quick to respond.
Improved: He acted with remarkable alacrity in crisis management. - Original: They accused the official of corruption.
Improved: They alleged misuse of public office for personal gain. - Original: He hinted at the problem without naming it.
Improved: He alluded to administrative failure without direct reference. - Original: The scheme was successful though not perfect.
Improved: The program was effective, albeit with implementation delays.
📥 Download UPSC Vocabulary Flashcards (PDF)
👉 📄 Download Flashcards for Set 4 (PDF)
👉 🧠 Take the UPSC Vocabulary Practice Quiz – Set 4
🔗 Related Thematic Vocabulary Posts
- 30 Thematic Vocabulary Words for UPSC Essays & Mains – Set 1
- 30 Governance, Ethics, Economy & Society Vocabulary Words for UPSC – Set 2
- Master These 30 Powerful Vocabulary Words for UPSC Essays & GS Answers – Set 3
- Visit the UPSC Official Website for exam syllabus and guidelines.
🎯 Final Tip
High-scoring UPSC answers are clear, precise, and insightful. These vocabulary words are not ornamental — use them to refine your message, express complex ideas succinctly, and demonstrate maturity of thought. Practice 3–4 words per day in your own writing.
Stay articulate,
Team Howdybuzz
