Word
viva
Phoneticsvi·va, stress on the first syllable
/ˈvivə/
Countable noun
Definition
n. an oral exam where you answer questions about your research or thesis in person. It is usually the final step for students finishing a high-level degree like a PhD.
n. an oral examination, typically for a doctoral degree, where a candidate defends their thesis before a panel of experts. Shortened from the Latin 'viva voce'.
Examples
“She felt nervous before her viva started.”
“After three hours of intense questioning during his viva, the committee finally congratulated him on his research.”
“The candidate's performance during the viva demonstrated a profound command of the subject matter, effectively addressing the methodological critiques raised by the external examiner.”
Examples
simple
“She felt nervous before her viva started.”
contextual
“After three hours of intense questioning during his viva, the committee finally congratulated him on his research.”
complex
“The candidate's performance during the viva demonstrated a profound command of the subject matter, effectively addressing the methodological critiques raised by the external examiner.”
Usage
Commonly used in British and Commonwealth academic contexts; often preceded by the definite article.
- 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
- Frequent
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/viva