For your IELTS preparation, using set phrases correctly boosts your Coherence and Cohesion (Writing) and Fluency and Coherence (Speaking) scores. Below is an updated essential guide for 2026. IELTS Speaking: Natural Set Phrases In the Speaking module, prioritize sounding natural and conversational rather than overly formal. Buying Time (Part 1 & 3): Use these when you need a moment to think. "That’s a tough one, let me think for a second..." "To be honest, I’ve never really thought about that before, but..." "That’s an interesting question! I suppose I’d say..." Giving Opinions: "As far as I’m concerned..." "I’m quite keen on..." or "I’m into..." (instead of just "I like") "The way I see it is..." Asking for Clarification: "I'm sorry, I didn't quite catch that. Could you repeat it?" "Could you explain what you mean by [word]?" Expressing Degrees (Extreme Adjectives): Replace "very" with high-level vocabulary. "Fascinating" (Very interesting) "Enormous" (Very big) "Crucial" (Very important) "Invigorating" (Making one feel healthy/full of energy) Yourielts.Ru IELTS Writing: Academic Connectors Essential Phrases for IELTS Speaking | PDF - Scribd
This guide outlines essential set phrases and expressions updated for the IELTS Writing and Speaking modules, designed to improve your coherence and range for a Band 7+ score. 1. Essential Phrases for IELTS Speaking (Parts 1, 2, & 3) In Speaking, the goal is to sound natural while using a range of idiomatic and complex structures. Buying Time (Natural Fillers): "That’s an intriguing question , let me think for a second..." "To be perfectly honest, I haven't really thought about that before, but..." "It's on the tip of my tongue , but essentially..." Stating Opinions & Perspectives: "From my perspective..." or "I'm inclined to believe that..." "It strikes me that..." "It goes without saying that..." (for obvious points) Elaborating and Clarifying: "What I’m getting at is..." "To put it another way..." "More specifically..." Useful Idioms for Band 7+: Piece of cake: Very easy. A hot potato : A controversial or difficult topic. Costs an arm and a leg: Very expensive. Off the top of my head: To say something without thinking or checking facts. 2. Essential Phrases for IELTS Writing Task 1 Writing Task 1 requires formal, precise language to describe data or situations. Describing Data (Academic): "The chart illustrates the changes in..." "Looking at the graph, it can be seen that..." "There was a sharp decline in..." or "The figure remained constant ..." Making Comparisons: "In comparison with..." or "As opposed to..." "A significantly higher number of..." Letter Writing (General Training): "I am writing in connection with ..." (formal) "I was delighted to hear that..." (informal) "I look forward to hearing from you." (closing) 3. Essential Phrases for IELTS Writing Task 2 (Essays) Success in Task 2 depends on your ability to link ideas logically and present balanced arguments. Phrases & Collocations for Describing Tables, Graphs & Charts
Mastering Essential Set Phrases and Expressions for IELTS Writing and Speaking Modules The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a crucial exam for individuals seeking to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. Achieving a high band score in IELTS requires not only a good grasp of English grammar and vocabulary but also the ability to express oneself effectively in writing and speaking. One key to success in the IELTS writing and speaking modules is the use of essential set phrases and expressions. This article will explore the importance of these phrases and provide a comprehensive list for IELTS aspirants. Why Are Set Phrases and Expressions Important? Set phrases and expressions, also known as idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs, are groups of words that are used together to convey a specific meaning. They are essential in the IELTS exam for several reasons:
Natural Language Use : Using set phrases and expressions makes your language sound more natural and fluent, which is crucial for achieving a high band score in the speaking and writing modules. Coherence and Cohesion : These phrases help you to link your ideas together coherently, making your writing and speech more cohesive and easier to follow. Vocabulary Range : Incorporating a variety of set phrases and expressions into your language demonstrates a wider range of vocabulary, which is positively assessed in the IELTS exam. Task Achievement : In the writing module, using appropriate set phrases and expressions can help you to address the task more effectively, while in the speaking module, they can help you to discuss topics more fluently. For your IELTS preparation, using set phrases correctly
Essential Set Phrases and Expressions for IELTS Writing and Speaking Here is a list of essential set phrases and expressions that IELTS aspirants should familiarize themselves with: Writing Module
Introduction and Conclusion :
"In this essay, I will discuss..." "In conclusion, it can be said that..." "On balance, I believe that..." Buying Time (Part 1 & 3): Use these
Expressing Opinions :
"In my opinion, it seems that..." "It appears to me that..." "I tend to think that..."
Linking Ideas :
"Moreover, it is also worth noting that..." "In addition to this, I would like to point out that..." "However, on the other hand..."
Speaking Module