Mastering Phrases and Phrasal Verbs for IELTS and TOEFL Speaking Tests
Preparing for the IELTS and TOEFL speaking tests can be daunting, but one key to success is mastering the use of phrases and phrasal verbs. These linguistic tools are commonly used by native speakers in everyday conversations and can help you sound more natural and fluent during your speaking exam. Here are five examples of phrases and phrasal verbs that can boost your speaking skills and help you achieve high scores.
1. "Break the ice"
This phrase means to start a conversation in a social setting, making people feel more comfortable. For instance:
"At the beginning of the interview, the examiner tried to break the ice by asking me about my hobbies."
2. "Get the ball rolling"
Used to indicate the start of an activity or process, this phrase can demonstrate your ability to initiate actions.
"To get the ball rolling, I shared my thoughts on the topic and asked for feedback."
3. "Look forward to"
This phrasal verb expresses excitement about something that will happen in the future.
"I look forward to discussing my ideas during the speaking test."
4. "Make up your mind"
A phrase that means to make a decision.
"I had to make up my mind quickly during the exam to respond effectively to the questions."
5. "Come up with"
This phrasal verb is used to describe the act of creating or thinking of something, often a solution or idea.
"During the test, I came up with several examples to support my answers."
Why Phrases and Phrasal Verbs Matter
Using phrases and phrasal verbs can significantly enhance your speaking performance. They add variety to your language, making your speech sound more fluent and natural. Moreover, examiners look for these elements as they indicate a higher level of proficiency and understanding of the English language.
Understanding Idioms vs. Phrases
Understanding the difference between idioms and phrases is crucial. Idioms are expressions whose meanings are not predictable from the usual meanings of their constituent elements. In contrast, phrases often have a more literal meaning that is easier to understand and convey. For instance, "spill the beans" (an idiom) means to reveal a secret, which is not immediately obvious from the words themselves. On the other hand, phrases like "make a decision" are straightforward and clear in their intent. While idioms add color to language, their figurative meanings can sometimes be challenging for non-native speakers to grasp, making phrases a more reliable choice in exams.
Achieve High Scores with GreduQuest
For those aiming for an IELTS band score of 7+ or a TOEFL score of 20+ in the speaking section, incorporating phrases and phrasal verbs is essential. GreduQuest.com offers a comprehensive collection of these linguistic tools to help you prepare effectively. By familiarizing yourself with commonly used phrases and phrasal verbs, you can improve your fluency, coherence, and overall speaking performance.