Top Phrases for IELTS Speaking Test
Updated on 21 December, 2022
Mrinal Mandal
Study Abroad Expert
Study Abroad Expert
The IELTS Speaking test is one of the vital sections of the examination. Test takers should use phrases and idioms to improve their scores on the IELTS speaking test. Usage of correct words and vocabulary are crucial parameters for determining a candidate’s final score. IELTS speaking section requires a candidate to speak in a conversational tone which should be grammatically and linguistically correct. Here are some important phrases for the IELTS speaking test that should be used to enhance vocabulary, which will help a candidate score well in IELTS.
There are many phrases for IELTS speaking that a candidate should practice beforehand. If you aim for band 9, you should know these phrases. Some of the common phrases for the IELTS speaking test are mentioned below:
Get a kick out of– This means deriving enjoyment or pleasure from something. An example could be I get a kick out of seeing pitchers hurl deliveries with full force.
Recommended Reads:
Get to know about the latest updates on the IELTS Exam, Eligibility, Preparation Tips, Test procedure, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Registration Process, Important Exam Dates, and much more!! This guide is a one-stop solution for every IELTS Aspirant who aims to crack the exam with an impressive band score.
Read More About IELTS:
Using phrases can be tricky. You need to sound spontaneous and natural while using them, just like native speakers. Do not use just slide them in conversation just for using them.
Do’s | Don’ts
|
Be natural while using the phrases. Let the examiner know that you can communicate with the native English speaker in real-life situations. | Don't use more than one phrase in one sentence. Doing this will hamper the coherence and the meaning of your sentences. |
You should be familiar with the phrases and their usage. Using them vaguely will affect the message you are trying to get across. | Don't worry about using the same phrases over and over again. |
Use phrases in variations not limiting to just a few phrases. | Don't boast of grammar and vocabulary unnecessarily. |
Use phrases in your daily conversations. This will help you be at ease on your D-day. | Avoid formal phrases for simple generic questions about you and your life. |
Phrases | Meanings | Examples |
A penny for your thoughts | Asking someone about their thoughts | After the review meeting, the manager turned to John and said, ‘a penny for your thoughts, John.’ |
Lend an ear | To listen to someone | If you are facing a problem at work, go to the HR manager as she lends a sympathetic ear. |
On cloud nine | To be in a merry state | After the UPSC results were announced, Triveni found herself on cloud nine as she secured 400th rank. |
Hit the hay | Go to bed | Neha is very particular about her daily routine. She hits the hay by 10 PM. |
Full of beans | Used for a person full of life and healthy | Everyone enjoys Ram’s company at work as he is full of beans. |
Phrases | Meanings | Usage in a sentence |
Bushed | Tired | She got bushed after the late-night party and decided to rest the next day. |
Be ears | Ready to listen to someone | Meera is all ears when it comes to solving someone’s problems. |
In the nick of time | At the exact moment | She arrived at the station in the nick of time. |
In deep water | To be in a difficult state | He is in deep waters as he did not submit his report on time. |
To bite the bullet | To do a difficult task | If he wants a promotion, he will have to bite the bullet and complete the project before the deadline.. |
Phrases | Meanings | Usage in a sentence |
Next to nothing | Inexpensive; cost nothing | Sheena bought a beautiful dress next to nothing and cost her 4 dollars only. |
Explore all avenues | To explore every means to get to the solution of a particular problem | She does not give in to any problem and explores all the avenues to come out of it. |
On the ball | Active and aware | Our team leader is on the ball with the progress of the project. |
Throw in the towel | To Surrender | After failing the engineering entrance exam; he threw in the towel on his dreams of becoming an engineer. |
By the skin of one’s teeth | barely | I was saved by the skin of my teeth in an accident. |
Know More:
To offer learners end-to-end assistance, upGrad Abroad has launched a Booster Program. The 12-weeks long extensive program is designed with a keen focus on equipping learners to kick-start their international undergraduate/ postgraduate journey after completing their first year in India. The Booster Program is designed to offer support to students in preparation for IELTS, Academic Writing, Profile Building, International Faculty Masterclass, and University Application, Education Loan, and Visa Support.
Using idiom in your conversation embellishes the content and lures the examiner. Here are some of the tips to use idioms and phrases in IELTS speaking:
Idioms and phrases are a part of the vocabulary. The examiner assesses you based on a wider range of vocabulary and correct grammatical structure in the IELTS speaking test. Using idioms and phrases in your response will make it more refined and unique, increasing your chances of getting a good score.
Vocabulary comprises 25% of your score in IELTS, so you must pay attention to this part to score well in your examination. You can easily practice idioms and phrases by incorporating them into your daily routine.
Some tips to practice phrases are provided below:
CHAT WITH US