Many IELTS candidates tend to repeat the same simple words a lot when they speak. If you want to get a high band in the speaking test, you must try not to do this. The examiner wants to see that you have a wide vocabulary. Here are some words that I hear a lot: ‘also’, ‘in addition’, ‘interesting’, ‘actually’. In this post I will show you how you can avoid repeating these words.
also
Many candidates repeatedly use the word ‘also’ at the beginning of a sentence to give an additional point or idea. However, in English there are other words or phrases you can use, for example ‘on top of that’, ‘what’s more’, ‘apart from that’.
- I usually spend my free time listening to music. Apart from that, I like reading.
- My hometown is very safe. What’s more, it’s quiet and peaceful.
- I prefer to eat at home because I can cook well. On top of that, it’s much cheaper than eating out.
in addition, moreover, furthermore
Like ‘also’, some candidates overuse the connector ‘in addition’ when introducing an additional point or idea. They also think it will impress the examiner and help them to get a band 7. However, words and phrases like ‘in addition’, ‘moreover’ and ‘furthermore’ are actually quite formal and sound unnatural when used repeatedly in spoken English. Try to avoid using them in the speaking test.
actually
Some candidates overuse the word ‘actually’. The word ‘actually’ in English should normally be used when you say something that is surprising or unexpected:
A: Do you enjoy your work?
B: Actually, I don’t work. I’m a student.
interesting
Many candidates overuse simple adjectives like ‘interesting‘, ‘good’, ‘bad’, ‘tasty’, ‘important’. Try to practise using more precise words for describing people, things and situations.
Use synonyms (if you can)
A good rule to remember is — use synonyms instead of repeating the same words all the time. However, if you don’t know any synonyms, then it is better to repeat the word than say nothing or make a mistake that will confuse examiner. Try to improve your vocabulary in the future!
If you are aiming for a high band, you can find lots of useful synonyms to watch and download in Lectures #8-11 of the IELTS Speaking Masterclass course.
thanks for sending me this tips.they are useful
I am awaiting for more tips regularly like this.
Thanks alot I wish to pass the exam successfuly
Thanks for the tips you sent I learnt about using synonyms
It is pleasure to have your warm assistance.