Using a few well-placed English idioms can significantly boost your Lexical Resource score, helping you achieve a band 7 or higher on the IELTS speaking test. The key is to use them naturally and appropriately, not to memorize a long list that sounds robotic. The right idiomatic language demonstrates a sophisticated and flexible command of English that examiners look for in high-band candidates.
If you're aiming for a top score, understanding and correctly using English idioms for IELTS speaking is a game-changer. It shows the examiner you’ve moved beyond textbook English and can use the language in a more nuanced, native-like way. But which ones should you learn? Let's break down some versatile idioms and how to use them to impress your examiner.
Why Are Idioms Important for a High IELTS Speaking Score?
To score a band 7 or higher in the Lexical Resource category, the IELTS criteria state you must use “some less common and idiomatic vocabulary.” This is a direct instruction from the test-makers. Using idioms effectively shows the examiner that you have a wide vocabulary and can use it flexibly.
However, it's about quality, not quantity. Forcing too many idioms into your answers will sound unnatural and may even lower your score if used incorrectly. The goal is to sprinkle one or two relevant idioms into each part of the test to demonstrate your linguistic ability without overdoing it.
Which English Idioms Should I Use for the IELTS Speaking Test?
Focus on learning flexible idioms that can be adapted to various common IELTS topics like work, travel, hobbies, and the environment. Here are 10 excellent idioms to add to your vocabulary, complete with meanings and example sentences.
- Once in a blue moon
- Meaning: To do something very rarely.
- Example: "I used to go to the cinema every week, but now with my busy schedule, I only go once in a blue moon."
- The best of both worlds
- Meaning: A situation where you can enjoy the advantages of two very different things at the same time.
- Example: "Working remotely from a small town gives me the best of both worlds; I have a great job but also enjoy a peaceful lifestyle."
- On the fence
- Meaning: To be undecided about something.
- Example: "I'm still on the fence about whether to travel abroad for my master's degree or study here at home."
- A blessing in disguise
- Meaning: Something that seems bad or unlucky at first but results in something good happening later.
- Example: "Losing my old job was a blessing in disguise because it pushed me to start my own successful business."
- Bite the bullet
- Meaning: To decide to do something difficult or unpleasant that you have been putting off.
- Example: "I'd been procrastinating on my final essay, but I knew I just had to bite the bullet and get it finished over the weekend."
- Feel under the weather
- Meaning: To feel slightly ill or unwell.
- Example: "I think I'll skip the party tonight. I'm feeling a bit under the weather."
- Over the moon
- Meaning: To be extremely happy or delighted.
- Example: "When I heard I'd received the scholarship, I was absolutely over the moon."
- Hit the books
- Meaning: To begin to study in a serious and determined way.
- Example: "I can't go out tonight; I have a huge exam on Monday, so I really need to hit the books."
- Cost an arm and a leg
- Meaning: To be extremely expensive.
- Example: "I'd love to buy a new car, but the model I want costs an arm and a leg."
- A piece of cake
- Meaning: Something that is very easy to do.
- Example: "I was nervous about the presentation, but with all my preparation, it turned out to be a piece of cake."
How Can I Use Idioms Naturally and Avoid Mistakes?
Using idioms correctly is more important than using them at all. Here’s how to ensure you sound natural and fluent.
Don't Force Them In
Never try to force an idiom where it doesn’t belong. It's better to give a clear, simple answer than an awkward one with a misplaced idiom. The examiner will notice, and it can negatively impact your fluency and coherence score.
Understand the Precise Meaning and Context
Make sure you know exactly what an idiom means and in what context it's used. Some idioms are informal, while others are more neutral. For example, 'feeling under the weather' is perfectly fine in the speaking test, but a very informal slang term might not be appropriate.
Practice Until It's Automatic
Practice is key. Try to use your target idioms when speaking with friends, a language partner, or a tutor. Record yourself answering mock IELTS questions and listen back to see if your use of idiomatic language sounds natural. The more you use them, the more they will become a natural part of your vocabulary.
In conclusion, mastering a few versatile English idioms for the IELTS speaking test is a powerful strategy for reaching band 7 and beyond. The secret is not to learn hundreds, but to deeply understand a handful of useful ones. Focus on their meaning, practice using them in context, and you will be well-equipped to demonstrate the advanced lexical resource needed to achieve your target score.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get band 7 without using idioms in IELTS speaking?
While it is possible, it is much more difficult. The official IELTS band descriptors for band 7 in 'Lexical Resource' explicitly mention the use of “some less common and idiomatic vocabulary.” Using idioms correctly is one of the most direct ways to meet this criterion and show the examiner you have an advanced vocabulary.
How many idioms should I use in the IELTS speaking test?
There is no magic number, but a good guideline is to aim for one or two naturally-placed idioms in each part of the speaking test (Part 1, 2, and 3). This demonstrates your ability without sounding rehearsed. Quality always beats quantity.
What's the difference between an idiom and a phrasal verb?
A phrasal verb is a verb combined with a preposition or adverb (e.g., 'give up', 'look after'). An idiom is a phrase where the meaning is not obvious from the individual words (e.g., 'kick the bucket' means to die). While many phrasal verbs are also idiomatic, not all are. Both are great for your Lexical Resource score.
Are there any idioms that are overused in IELTS?
Yes, some idioms have become clichés in the IELTS test because they are taught so frequently. Be cautious with phrases like 'every cloud has a silver lining' or 'it’s raining cats and dogs'. While not incorrect, using more unique idioms from the list above will likely impress the examiner more.