DELE B1 Spanish vocabulary: intermediate words for work and life in Spain
CEFR B1
At B1 you move from routine situations to explaining, describing and giving opinions. This guide shows the vocabulary you need and where to find it.
The DELE B1 is the Instituto Cervantes diploma for intermediate Spanish. It shows you can understand the main points of clear texts on familiar topics, deal with most situations while travelling and describe experiences, plans and opinions.
Many employers and universities ask for B1 as a minimum level. Like every DELE, the diploma does not expire.
How the exam works
- Reading comprehension
- Longer texts such as articles, letters, adverts and short stories.
- Listening comprehension
- Conversations, interviews, news items and messages.
- Written expression and interaction
- Two texts, such as an email and a short opinion or narrative text.
- Oral expression and interaction
- A short presentation, a conversation about it, a photo description and a role-play.
Topics that come up most
- Work, studies and professional life
- Housing, renting and the neighbourhood
- Public services and paperwork
- Money, banking and shopping
- Health and well-being
- Leisure, culture and travel experiences
Free word lists for this exam
Study these lists in order. Each has 25 words with meanings, example sentences and a short practice.
- 1Irregular Spanish verbsA2–B1 · 25 words
- 2Spanish words for work and the officeB1 · 25 words
- 3Spanish words for renting a flatB1 · 25 words
- 4Spanish words for bureaucracy and paperworkB1–B2 · 25 words
- 5Spanish words for banking and moneyB1 · 25 words
- 6Spanish words for health and the pharmacyA2–B1 · 25 words
A four-week vocabulary plan
- Week 1
Review irregular verbs in the past tenses and learn 8 new words a day.
- Week 2
Study work and housing vocabulary; describe your job and home in writing.
- Week 3
Add paperwork and banking words; role-play a phone call to a service.
- Week 4
Review everything due and give a two-minute talk on a familiar topic.
Not sure where to start?
Take the free vocabulary level test. In about five minutes you get an estimated CEFR level and the lists to study next.
Questions about this exam
How is DELE B1 different from A2?
B1 texts are longer and you are expected to explain, describe and give opinions, not only handle routine situations. You need more past tenses and more topic vocabulary.
Is the DELE B1 valid for life?
Yes. DELE diplomas do not expire.
Can WordNest prepare me for the DELE B1?
WordNest helps you learn and review vocabulary. It is not an official DELE course and is not affiliated with the Instituto Cervantes.
WordNest is not affiliated with the exam board. Formats, fees and dates change — always check the official website before you book.
Study exam vocabulary every day
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