Idiomatic expressions | 5 idioms for IELTS speaking test

Idiomatic expressions | Why are they important in the IELTS speaking test?

In every language, you will come across different ways through which you will be able to deliver your ideas and feelings. In this regard, you may come across ideas that are clear to a native speaker, but since you are currently learning the language, you don’t have the exact idea of what it actually means.

In different countries, every culture has these kinds of phrases that bear special meanings. In the English language, these special phrases are known as idioms and phrasal verbs. These idioms are well utilized in every communication and have different meanings. If you want to prepare for tests like IELTS, it is important for you to know and understand what idiomatic expressions are and their use cases.

Idiomatic expressions in English | How to use them?

Idiomatic expressions are commonly used while communicating in English. Usually, non-native speakers of the English language cannot match the proficiency level of native speakers, which is why they receive a lower score on the IELTS test.

However, if you have properly mastered the idiomatic expression, then communicating in the English language becomes much easier, and you can utilize the same to make a good impression on the examiner during the IELTS speaking test.

What is an idiom or idiomatic expression?

An idiom or idiomatic expression can be considered a type of expression or phrase that does not have any literal meaning. If you go by the words or phrase itself, you will not be able to know or understand the meaning behind the phrase or idiom. For example, if Rajesh has received the best results in his class, then you can say, ‘Rajesh was over the moon when he saw his results for the first time.’

Now if we check the literal meaning of the phrase, then it will imply that someone (Rajesh) is looking over the moon or beyond the stars. However, the actual meaning of the phrase is related to happiness, and in the case of the sentence, it will work as – ‘Rajesh was very happy when he received his result.’

Idiomatic expressions have often been used fluently in a natural manner, especially by native speakers; people don’t usually notice these phrases during conversations. In the case of language learners, they need to know how to utilize them in the right way so that they will not sound out of place.

The use of collocation is also related to idiomatic expressions. Collocation refers to the usage of words or phrases that go hand in hand in a natural manner. For example, the ‘basket small’ sounds unnatural, and the correct term is ‘small basket.’ If you want to receive good grades on the IELTS Speaking test, then knowing how and where to utilize the idiomatic expression is very important.

Idioms you can prepare for the IELTS speaking test

For the IELTS speaking test, it is important to have proper knowledge and understanding of the popular idioms used in the English language. Idioms have multiple types, which include prepositional idioms, cliches, pure idioms, euphemisms, partial idioms, proverbs, binomial idioms, etc. To get a good score, you need to know all of these idioms.

Some phrases that can help you with your IELTS speaking test

Here we will provide you with some useful idioms that will help you in your IELTS speaking test. However, you also need to note that you should use them whenever it is applicable.

These idioms can be extremely helpful at the time, but you should remember that when you are using them, they should not sound unnatural and resemble the fluency of a native speaker.

Also, while giving the test, try to understand the question asked by the examiner before answering. Let us check out the idioms:

1. Down to earth – Somebody who follows a realistic and reasonable approach. Dinesh’s father is so down to earth. He always helps out the people who request his help.
2. Couch potato – Those who spend a lot of time watching television or surfing the internet. For example, My brother is a couch potato; he is glued to the TV on Saturdays and Sundays.
3. A bad egg – Refers to somebody who cannot be trusted. For example, One of Ramesh’s friends is a bad egg. He always stays in the back and takes advantage of the situation to land others in trouble.
4. Full of beans – Someone who is extremely healthy and active. For example, My ten-year-old son is full of beans; in terms of energy, he can easily surpass two adults.
5. Fresh as a daisy – To compliment someone who looks fresh, charming, and attractive. For example, Although Lalita has been traveling for two days, she is still as fresh as a daisy.

Key takeaways

• Idiomatic expressions are common phrases used in the English language. Their literal meaning and actual meaning are totally different.
• As a non-native speaker, if you are preparing for the IELTS speaking test, you need to know and understand the use of idioms properly. Knowing the exact usage of idioms will increase your speaking test score.
• There are several kinds of idiomatic expressions available in the English language. Remember and practice idioms of all types if you are preparing for the IELTS speaking test.

We hope you enjoyed reading this blog. In case of any queries, reach out to us or drop a comment below.

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FAQs

Q1. How many idiomatic expressions should I use in IELTS speaking?

Answer- You should try to use a moderate amount of idiomatic expressions in the IELTS speaking. However, try to prepare and remember as many idioms as possible and use them when an appropriate situation arrives.

Q2. Is it appropriate to use idioms in IELTS writing test?

Answer- Since idiomatic expressions are regarded as informal, they shouldn’t be used in academic writing. If you want to score better in the writing part of the IELTS, then you should know the appropriate use cases of the idioms.

Q3. How can I score 8.5 in IELTS speaking?

Answer- To score 8.5 in IELTS speaking, you need to follow the suggestions mentioned below-

• During the exam, speak directly to the examiner instead of focusing on the recording equipment.
• Don’t try to use an already prepared speech for your IELTS speaking test. Also, don’t stray away from the topic you have been given for discussion.
• While you use ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ to reply to the examiner’s question, try to add further details in order to make your speech more interesting and appropriate.