English Reference

Word

levies

US/ˈɫɛviz/

UK/lˈɛvɪz/

Plural noun

Definition

n. official taxes or fees that a government or organization makes people pay. They are often used to fund specific services like education or road repairs.

n. compulsory financial charges or taxes imposed by a government or other legal authority. Often refers to specific-purpose collections rather than general income tax.

Examples

“The government introduced new levies on plastic packaging.”

“Local residents were unhappy about the additional levies added to their property tax bills to pay for the new stadium.”

“Economists argue that while these environmental levies may increase short-term costs for manufacturers, they provide the necessary incentive for long-term investment in sustainable technologies.”

Examples

simple

“The government introduced new levies on plastic packaging.”

contextual

“Local residents were unhappy about the additional levies added to their property tax bills to pay for the new stadium.”

complex

“Economists argue that while these environmental levies may increase short-term costs for manufacturers, they provide the necessary incentive for long-term investment in sustainable technologies.”

Usage

Plural form of 'levy'; takes a plural verb. Often used in the context of trade, environment, or local government finance.

Real-World Examples

“Universities are under massive strain owing to funding shortfalls, which have been worsened by new limits and levies on international students.”
The Guardian 7 Aug 2026
“A new US report said China had moved goods through nations with lower tariffs to dodge higher levies.”
BBC News 14 Aug 2026

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
Frequency
Occasional
Level
C1 · Advanced
Updated

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English Reference