In the IELTS speaking test, many candidates believe that they will impress the examiner by using very formal vocabulary. In fact, the speaking test is supposed to represent everyday ‘educated’ speech — not highly formal, but at the same time you should not use language that is too informal, such as slang. In the table below, I include some examples of overly formal words and phrases that you should try to avoid in the speaking test.
Words/phrases you can use | Words/phrases to avoid |
---|---|
What's more, On top of that | moreover, furthermore |
so | therefore, consequently, hence, thus |
drinks | beverages |
my home | my residence |
I have | I possess |
I live in | I reside in |
I bought | I purchased |
I want | I desire |
while | whilst |
I would like to | I wish to |
Sorry? | I beg your pardon? |
Who with? | With whom? |
especially | namely |
How do you say …? | How does one say …? |
I do sport | I am engaged in sport |
I need to | It is necessary for me to |
I will | I shall |
I won't | I will not, I shall not |
I can't | I cannot |
I'm going to talk about … | I have the intention of talking about … |

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