Hey there! Are you preparing for the IELTS Writing test and want to ensure that you use the appropriate language? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll explore some common words that are too informal for the IELTS Writing test, and suggest more formal alternatives to help you achieve a high score. So, let's dive in!
In IELTS Writing, it is essential to avoid using informal words commonly used in English. Some of these words are frequently used by students and candidates in their writing. Although these informal words may be suitable when writing to a friend in IELTS General, they are not appropriate for Writing Task 2 and other writing tasks in IELTS Academic, which requires more formal language.
To score well, it is crucial to know which words are formal and which are informal. To help you achieve a high score, here is a compiled list of common informal words you should avoid using in IELTS Writing. Below, you can find examples of these words and suggested substitutions with more formal words or phrases.
In a nutshell = In conclusion / To conclude a. In conclusion, despite being an alluring idea, enforcing equality of opportunity can prove to be counterproductive. b. To conclude, the implementation of equality of opportunity can cause more harm than good.
A couple of = Several a. Several members have not responded in over three years.
Kind of/ sort of = Somewhat / To a certain degree a. The resort has somewhat transformed over the past few years. b. To a certain degree, the success of the project can be attributed to the hard work and dedication of the team.
Lots of/ A lot of = Many / Much a. Many people believe that boys are naturally more aggressive than girls. b. Much has been written about the impact of climate change on biodiversity in recent years.
You/ Your = One / Passive voice a. Children are unlikely to be adversely affected if provided with appropriate guidance. b. If one is given appropriate guidance, they are unlikely to be adversely affected.
A phone = A telephone a. People spend a significant amount of time on the telephone.
A photo = A photograph / A colour/black-and-white photograph a. The report contains diagrams and coloured photographs. b. The book includes numerous colour photographs, but many lack sharpness or have washed-out colours.
Info = Information / Data a. Information about upcoming local events is available in the newspaper. b. The data presented in the report indicates a significant increase in the number of tourists visiting the country.
A uni = University a. A university campus/degree/professor b. Most employees possess university degrees.
So on / etc. / and so forth = A, B, and C a. The cultural context, physical environment, and personalities of those involved should all be considered.
At the end of the day = In conclusion / To conclude a. In conclusion, parents should assist their children in developing self-control and respect for others. b. To conclude, parents should aid their children in developing self-control and respect for others.
Once in a blue moon = Hardly ever / Rarely a. Nowadays, people rarely communicate with their neighbours.
Since the dawn of time = For centuries / Throughout history a. For centuries, the country has been influenced by a plethora of cultures. b. Throughout history, technological advancements have often revolutionized the way people live and work.
A big deal = Important / An important step. a. The majority of patients do not believe that getting enough sleep is important, but research reveals otherwise. b. An important step towards achieving the organization's sustainability goals is to reduce its carbon footprint.
Get/Got = Obtain / Receive a. In order to be considered for the scholarship, applicants must obtain a minimum score of 90 on the language proficiency exam. b. Employees who receive positive feedback from their supervisors are more likely to be considered for promotions within the company.
Give = Provide / Present a. The author provides no documentary references to support her assertions. b. The purpose of this report is to present the findings of the research conducted on the impact of climate change on the agricultural industry.
So / Very = Extremely / Dramatically a. These antiques are both beautiful and extremely valuable. b. The implementation of renewable energy sources has dramatically reduced carbon emissions in many developed countries.
Show = Demonstrate / Illustrate / Reveal a. The graph illustrates the breakdown of actual expenses into two categories. b. The results of the study reveal a significant correlation between the variables under investigation. c. The experiment conducted by the research team demonstrated the effectiveness of the new drug in treating the disease.
Bad = Poor / Negative a. The warm winter has had a negative impact on the ski industry. b. The poor condition of the roads has resulted in increased traffic accidents.
Big = Large / Sizable a. A sizable amount/area/house b. A large amount of work
Find out = Discover / Uncover a. Its purpose is to discover the truth of what happened and identify any lessons that may help prevent a recurrence. b. The investigation was able to uncover significant evidence to support the allegations.
Think about = Consider / Take into account a. Many people consider the film controversial. b. To make an informed decision, it is essential to take into account all the relevant factors and potential consequences.
Look at = Examine / Explore a. Forensic scientists are examining the wreckage for clues about the cause of the explosion. b. To gain a better understanding of the phenomenon, researchers often explore various aspects of it through rigorous analysis and experimentation.
Point out = Indicate / Signify a. Various studies indicate that some forms of alternative medicine are extremely effective. b. The sudden change in the company's stock prices may signify a significant shift in the market's perception of the company's performance.
Guys / Fellows / Dudes = People / Individuals / Everyone a. This is a general rule that applies to everyone and benefits each individual equally. b. The success of any organization depends largely on the quality of the people it employs.
Stuff / Things = Aspects / Issues a. Environmental/ethical/personal issues b. Lighting is a crucial aspect of filmmaking.
So = Therefore / As such a. The project was not completed on time, and as such, it incurred additional costs that were not initially planned for. b. Therefore, the increase in greenhouse gases has led to significant changes in the Earth's climate.
And = Additionally / Moreover / Furthermore a. Additionally, the study found a correlation between higher education and better health outcomes. b. The company has seen significant growth in the past year; moreover, it has successfully expanded into new international markets. c. The research findings provide valuable insights into the causes of the issue; furthermore, they offer potential solutions for policymakers to consider.
But = However / Nevertheless a. Nevertheless, granting children access to the internet can introduce them to a limitless library of information, helping them unlock their full potential. b. However, the research has some limitations and should be interpreted with caution.
Also = Moreover / In addition a. Moreover, the company's commitment to sustainable practices has led to a reduction in waste. b. In addition to the legal frameworks that protect equal rights, it is important for society as a whole to promote and celebrate diversity and to create inclusive environments where everyone is treated with dignity and respect.
In conclusion, using appropriate vocabulary is critical to achieving a high score in the IELTS Writing test. While informal words may be suitable in casual conversations, using them in formal writing can significantly affect your score.
Understanding the difference between formal and informal language is essential for IELTS Writing, and the suggested alternatives can help you create a more sophisticated piece of writing. Using a more formal tone helps to convey your ideas clearly, making your writing appear professional and credible.
By using these tips, you can improve your vocabulary and confidently approach the IELTS Writing test.
コメント