In the IELTS speaking test, the examiner may ask you for your opinion on a particular topic. You may need to express opinions in part 1, part 2 or part 3 of the test.
Therefore, it is a good idea to learn some special phrases that you can use in your response.
Giving an opinion
Study these examples from different topic areas.
- In my opinion, good exercise and a healthy diet are important for a long life.
- I believe that many jobs are still more suited to men.
- Personally, I think that many jobs are still more suited to men.
- I feel that the gap between rich and poor is growing.
- From my point of view as a student, the cost of living in my city is very high.
- I find Indian food a bit too spicy.
Note: If you want to give an opinion that something is not true with I think, I feel, I believe …, you can say I don’t feel, I don’t believe, etc. For example:
- I don’t believe that there is enough gender equality.
- I don’t feel that the gap between rich and poor is growing.
Advanced expressions
The expressions below are slightly more advanced. Consider using them if you are aiming for band 7 or higher.
- I reckon an increasing number of people will be working from home in the future.
(informal, UK English) - I’m utterly convinced that the government should do more to help the unemployed. (expresses a very strong opinion)
- I’m of the opinion that the government should do more to encourage environmentally-friendly transport.
- The way I see it, my country has too many public holidays.
- As far as I’m concerned, French cuisine is among the best in the world.

You can find many more tips like this in the IELTS Speaking Masterclass course, an essential programme of training materials for IELTS Speaking including videos and downloadble pdfs.
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