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If you want to acquire a 7 Band Score on IELTS Speaking Test, then along with high vocabulary and grammatical skills it is also important to use idiomatic language to leave a strong impression. This article is all about common idioms that can be used in the IELTS speaking exam.
Idioms and phrases are used to describe things, feelings, and ideas with a combination of a few words. Each country has a different set of phrases with special meanings. The idiomatic language is used in our daily communication and also it is preferred to use in the IELTS speaking exam. To use them, it is important to understand their meaning and usage first.
What is an Idiom?
An idiom is a phrase or expression having non-literal meaning – the meaning cannot be directly understood by reading each word. Idioms are used so often naturally by native speakers that we are unaware that people are using it. Idioms are not always Literal, they are sometimes Metaphorical. Thus the pronunciation, stress, and intonation should be spot on. So anyone can understand you. Often idioms get unnoticed in daily life. Learn to use them correctly.
For example, if you are thrilled because you got a band 8 in your Speaking test, you might say: “I was on cloud nine when I saw my results”. If we look at the literal meaning of these words, we think about being on clouds! However, the idiomatic meaning of this phrase is extremely happy – “I was extremely happy when I saw my result.”
Expressing Opinions:
My take on this… (My Opinion on this) Stress on the word MY.
To my way of thinking…
I’m in two minds about this… (two different opinions)
I’m on the fence about this… (You are in the middle)
I think I’m on the fence… (This sounds more natural and then show your hands)
On the one hand… & On the other hand…
It boils down to this… (the most important thing is)
E.g. It boils down to (+ Noun) money. Are we sure that the government should invest in it?
E.g. It boils down to one thing, our planet is in danger, so we need to explore space.
Expressing Likes and Dislikes:
Do you like your Job?
I can take it… or leave it… (I don’t mind, I’m indifferent.)
It is not my Cup of Tea. (Dislike it)
Confusing Topics:
Well, to be honest, I can’t make head (s) or tail (s) of it. (It’s too confusing)
I can’t get my head around it OR I can’t wrap my head around it (Don’t understand it)
E.g. What do you think about modern art?
I can’t get my head around it, to me, it seems naive.
Saying that Things/Places/People are very Good:
___ is hands down the best.
___ is second to none.
___ is a cut above the rest.
Saying that Things/Places/People are not so Good:
It is not a patch on__ (It is not as good as)
It cannot hold a candle to ___
Canada is a great country, but it cannot hold a candle to India.
Common English Idioms
used for IELTS Speaking Exam