IELTS Speaking: Common Expressions

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Questions and Answers

In a formal discussion about climate change, which phrase would be MOST effective to introduce your strongly held belief, aiming to persuade others of the urgency?

As far as I am concerned, climate change is worrying.
I am convinced that immediate action on climate change is essential. (correct)
It seems to me that we should act now.
I tend to think that climate change is a problem.

Using the phrase 'I'm not really into...' is an appropriate way to express strong dislike in the IELTS Speaking test and should be used when you want to clearly show your aversion.

False (B)

Describe a scenario in the IELTS Speaking test where using 'I agree to some extent...' would be more appropriate than 'I agree completely'.

When the examiner or another speaker presents an argument that is partially valid but has aspects you don't fully support or have reservations about. For example, if someone suggests technology is entirely beneficial, you might agree to some extent but want to highlight potential downsides.

To effectively rephrase a complex idea in simpler terms during the IELTS speaking test, you could use the phrase: '__________ what I mean is...'

In other words, Signup and view all the answers

Match each phrase with its primary function in spoken English:

I couldn't disagree more = Strong disagreement Let me think about that for a moment = Pausing for thought Furthermore = Adding information Compared to... = Comparing Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios BEST illustrates the appropriate use of 'Actually, I think...'?

Politely correcting a minor factual error in your own previous statement. (B) Signup and view all the answers

Starting a sentence with 'Because...' is considered too informal for the IELTS Speaking test and should be avoided in favor of more complex sentence structures.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Explain why using filler words like 'Um' and 'Ah' should be used sparingly, despite being listed as techniques to buy thinking time.

Overuse of filler words can negatively impact fluency and coherence scores. While occasional use is natural for thinking time, excessive use can make speech sound hesitant and unclear, detracting from the overall impression of English proficiency. Signup and view all the answers

When you want to transition to discussing the negative consequences of a previously mentioned point, a suitable phrase to use is '__________,...'

Therefore Signup and view all the answers

Match each phrase with the conversational function it best serves:

I'm keen on... = Expressing interest In conclusion... = Summarizing Let me clarify... = Clarifying Suppose that... = Hypothesizing Signup and view all the answers

In which context is 'I tend to think that...' MOST appropriate?

When expressing a tentative or hesitant opinion. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Using 'You're absolutely right' is an effective way to show partial agreement while still maintaining a degree of your own differing opinion.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation where using 'I see your point, but...' is crucial for maintaining politeness while disagreeing in the IELTS Speaking test.

When responding to an examiner's or another speaker's viewpoint that is partially valid or well-reasoned, but you ultimately disagree with the conclusion. It acknowledges their perspective before introducing your contrasting view, preserving a respectful tone. Signup and view all the answers

To introduce a scenario that is purely imaginary and explore its potential outcomes, the phrase '__________ if...' is highly effective.

Imagine Signup and view all the answers

Match the following phrases with their intended purpose in conversation:

I'd rather... than... = Expressing preferences On the other hand... = Highlighting differences In short... = Summarizing concisely Let me rephrase that... = Correcting oneself for clarity Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase BEST exemplifies expressing a common belief in a neutral, observational way?

It is often said that... (C) Signup and view all the answers

Using 'I disagree' is too direct and impolite for the IELTS Speaking test and should always be avoided in favor of softer disagreement phrases.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Explain the difference between using 'For example...' and 'To illustrate...' in providing details during the IELTS Speaking test.

While both 'For example...' and 'To illustrate...' introduce examples, 'To illustrate...' often suggests a more detailed or vivid example intended to clarify a complex point, whereas 'For example...' can introduce a simpler, more straightforward instance. Signup and view all the answers

When you want to add more information that supports or enhances a previous point, you can use the linking phrase '__________,...'

Moreover Signup and view all the answers

Match each phrase with its most appropriate function in a spoken response:

I'm a big fan of... = Expressing strong liking However... = Highlighting contrast In summary... = Providing a brief overview What I should have said was... = Correcting a misstatement Signup and view all the answers

In which scenario would 'I'm not certain...' be the MOST fitting phrase?

When you are speculating based on limited information. (A) Signup and view all the answers

The phrase 'Likewise' is used to point out contrasting aspects between two subjects being compared.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Explain why using 'What I'm trying to say is...' can be more effective than simply repeating yourself when clarifying a point.

'What I'm trying to say is...' signals to the listener that you are about to re-articulate your point, but with a different approach or emphasis, rather than just verbatim repetition. This proactive clarification can improve understanding and demonstrate communicative competence. Signup and view all the answers

To emphasize the undeniable truth of a statement, you can confidently begin with '__________ a doubt,...'

Without Signup and view all the answers

Link each phrase to its primary function in spoken communication:

I see your point, but... = Politely disagreeing To give you an idea... = Providing an illustrative example Overall... = Giving a general perspective Let me correct myself... = Adjusting a previous statement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the purpose of using 'Give me a second...' in the IELTS Speaking test?

To politely request a brief pause to formulate your thoughts. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When comparing two things, starting with 'Similarly...' is used to highlight the differences between them.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Explain how effectively using phrases for 'pausing and thinking time' can contribute to a higher fluency score in the IELTS Speaking test.

Using these phrases demonstrates strategic communication skills by signaling a deliberate pause for thought rather than hesitation due to language deficiency. This controlled pausing can enhance perceived fluency by making speech sound more considered and less erratic, even when thinking time is needed. Signup and view all the answers

When you want to offer an alternative word or phrase to what you just said, you can use '__________,...'

Or Signup and view all the answers

Match each phrase with its function in spoken discourse:

I am convinced that... = Expressing strong conviction In addition... = Adding supplementary information Basically... = Providing main points I'm afraid I have to disagree = Softening disagreement Signup and view all the answers

Which phrase is MOST suitable for introducing a hypothetical scenario in a formal context?

Suppose that... (C) Signup and view all the answers

Using 'I'm really into...' is a suitable way to express a mild preference, but not strong enthusiasm.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation where using 'A classic case of this is...' would be more impactful than 'Such as...' when giving examples.

'A classic case of this is...' is more impactful when you want to highlight a well-known or widely recognized example that strongly supports your point, suggesting it's a definitive or exemplary instance, whereas 'Such as...' is more general for listing examples. Signup and view all the answers

To provide a reason for something you stated, you can start with '__________ is because...'

The reason Signup and view all the answers

Match each phrase with its most fitting conversational function:

I tend to think that... = Softening an opinion In fact... = Emphasizing truth To sum up... = Providing a quick summary What if...? = Introducing a question about possibility Signup and view all the answers

When is 'I couldn't agree more' the MOST appropriate phrase to use?

When you strongly agree with someone and want to emphasize your complete agreement. (D) Signup and view all the answers

The phrase 'While... is...,... is...' is used to show similarities between two subjects.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Explain the strategic advantage of using 'Let me rephrase that...' over simply restating the same sentence when seeking clarification.

'Let me rephrase that...' signals a conscious effort to express the same idea in a different way, indicating adaptability and a focus on clear communication. This proactive approach is more effective than simple repetition, which might not resolve the initial lack of understanding. Signup and view all the answers

To introduce a personal anecdote as an example, you can use the phrase '__________ you an example,...'

Let me give Signup and view all the answers

Match each phrase with its intended function in spoken English discourse:

I guess... = Indicating uncertainty Indeed... = Emphasizing a point To put it another way... = Explaining from another angle I disagree = Direct disagreement Signup and view all the answers

In which of the following scenarios would the phrase "I'm afraid I have to disagree" be most appropriately used?

Giving feedback on a colleague's presentation where you find significant flaws. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Using filler words like "um" and "ah" is always detrimental to your IELTS Speaking fluency score.

False (B) Signup and view all the answers

Describe a situation in which using the phrase "I see your point, but..." would be more effective than a direct disagreement. Why is it more effective in that context?

This phrase is most effective when acknowledging the validity of another's viewpoint while gently introducing a conflicting opinion. It helps maintain a respectful tone, especially in sensitive discussions or formal settings, preventing immediate antagonism. Signup and view all the answers

To suggest a common belief during the IELTS speaking test, a candidate could say, "__________ that the early bird catches the worm."

It is often said Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

IELTS Speaking Test

A face-to-face interview assessing English proficiency.

IELTS Speaking Criteria

Fluency, vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.