In the IELTS Speaking test, demonstrating your ability to speak fluently and naturally in English is crucial for achieving a high band score. One of the most effective ways to elevate your spoken English is by incorporating idioms and phrasal verbs into your responses. These expressions not only show your command of the language but also reflect your understanding of how native speakers communicate. In this blog, we’ll guide you through how to use idioms and phrasal verbs naturally in the IELTS Speaking test, with tips and examples to help you prepare effectively.
Why Idioms and Phrasal Verbs Matter in IELTS Speaking
In the IELTS Speaking test, you are assessed on four key criteria:
- Fluency and Coherence
- Lexical Resource
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy
- Pronunciation
Using idioms and phrasal verbs naturally can boost your Lexical Resource score, showing the examiner that you can use a variety of expressions beyond basic vocabulary. However, it’s important to use them correctly and naturally. Overusing or misusing idioms can lower your score, so it’s important to incorporate them when appropriate and relevant to the topic.
Tips for Using Idioms and Phrasal Verbs Naturally
✅ Know the Meaning and Context
Before using an idiom or phrasal verb, make sure you fully understand its meaning and when it’s appropriate to use it. Misusing these expressions can confuse the examiner and harm your score.
✅ Practice in Conversation
To sound natural, try to incorporate idioms and phrasal verbs into your everyday conversations. This will help you get comfortable with them and make your speech sound more fluent.
✅ Don’t Overuse Them
While idioms and phrasal verbs can enhance your language skills, avoid overloading your responses with too many of them. Focus on quality, not quantity. Use them where they naturally fit into the conversation.
✅ Use Idioms and Phrasal Verbs Related to Common IELTS Topics
The IELTS Speaking test often covers general topics like family, hobbies, education, and work. Practice idioms and phrasal verbs that relate to these topics so you can use them easily during your exam.
Common Idioms and Phrasal Verbs for IELTS
Here are some commonly used idioms and phrasal verbs that are perfect for IELTS Speaking:
Idioms:
- A piece of cake – Something that is very easy.
- “The exam was a piece of cake for me; I studied hard and was well-prepared.”
- Break the ice – To start a conversation or make people feel comfortable.
- “When meeting new people, I like to break the ice with a funny story.”
- Burn the midnight oil – To stay up late working on something.
- “I had to burn the midnight oil to finish my assignment before the deadline.”
- Bite the bullet – To do something unpleasant that is unavoidable.
- “I didn’t want to go to the dentist, but I had to bite the bullet and get my teeth checked.”
- Hit the nail on the head – To be exactly right about something.
- “When she said that the project was too ambitious, she hit the nail on the head.”
Phrasal Verbs:
- Bring up – To mention or introduce a topic.
- “I don’t want to bring up the issue of the budget until we have all the facts.”
- Get along – To have a good relationship with someone.
- “I get along well with my coworkers, which makes the workplace enjoyable.”
- Look forward to – To feel excited about something in the future.
- “I look forward to traveling to Australia for my studies.”
- Pick up – To learn or acquire something new.
- “I picked up a few useful phrases during my trip to England.”
- Turn down – To reject or decline something.
- “I had to turn down the job offer because it didn’t meet my expectations.”
How to Practice Using Idioms and Phrasal Verbs
🎤 Speak with Native Speakers or Tutors
The best way to practice using idioms and phrasal verbs naturally is to engage in regular conversation with native speakers or English tutors. This will help you get a feel for how these expressions are used in everyday speech.
📚 Watch Movies and Listen to Podcasts
Expose yourself to native English speakers through movies, TV shows, and podcasts. Pay attention to how idioms and phrasal verbs are used in context, and try to mimic the way they speak.
📝 Practice with Sample IELTS Speaking Topics
Choose common IELTS Speaking topics and practice using idioms and phrasal verbs related to them. Record yourself speaking and listen to see if the expressions sound natural.
How IStudentPlus Can Help You Prepare for IELTS Speaking
At IStudentPlus, we offer personalized support to help you excel in the IELTS Speaking test:
📝 One-on-One Speaking Sessions
Our expert tutors can guide you through the best ways to incorporate idioms and phrasal verbs into your responses during practice speaking sessions.
📚 IELTS Speaking Tips and Strategies
We provide you with strategies and tips to use idioms and phrasal verbs effectively without overdoing it.
🎧 Listening Practice
We offer listening exercises that focus on common idioms and phrasal verbs, helping you familiarize yourself with their usage.
FAQs
Q: Can I use idioms in every part of the IELTS Speaking test?
A: You can use idioms in any part of the Speaking test, but make sure they are relevant to the topic and appropriate for the conversation.
Q: Will using idioms and phrasal verbs improve my score?
A: Using them correctly and naturally can improve your Lexical Resource score, but they should not be forced. Focus on clear communication and fluency.
Q: How many idioms or phrasal verbs should I use in my IELTS Speaking?
A: It’s best to use them sparingly and only when they fit naturally into the conversation. Avoid overusing them, as this can make your speech sound less natural
