Band 6 speakers use some idiomatic language naturally. The key word is "some" — overusing idioms sounds forced and unnatural. Aim for 2–3 natural idioms per Part 2 or Part 3 answer.
Safe idioms for IELTS Speaking: | Idiom | Meaning | Example | |---|---|---| | "it goes without saying" | it is obvious | "It goes without saying that education is important." | | "a double-edged sword" | has both advantages and disadvantages | "Technology is a double-edged sword." | | "keep up with" | to stay at the same level as | "It's hard to keep up with rapid technological change." | | "make ends meet" | to have just enough money | "Many families struggle to make ends meet." | | "on the whole" | generally speaking | "On the whole, I think the benefits outweigh the drawbacks." | | "by and large" | mostly; in general | "By and large, people are living longer than before." |
Warning: Only use an idiom if you are 100% sure of its meaning and usage. Using an idiom incorrectly is worse than not using one at all.
Band 4 (no idiomatic language)
Technology is good and bad. It helps people but also causes problems. It is difficult to say if it is good or bad.
Why this works: No idiomatic language. Very basic. Repetitive.
Band 6 (natural idioms)
I think technology is very much a double-edged sword. On the whole, it has made our lives more convenient and connected, but it goes without saying that there are serious downsides — particularly when it comes to privacy and the way it can affect mental health. It's becoming increasingly difficult for people to keep up with the pace of change, which I think is a genuine concern.
Why this works: Uses: 'double-edged sword', 'on the whole', 'it goes without saying', 'keep up with'. All used correctly and naturally.
downside
a disadvantage or negative aspect
Example: The main downside is the cost.
genuine
truly what it appears to be
Example: This is a genuine concern.
pace
speed of progress or change
Example: The pace of technological change is remarkable.
Cleft sentences (It is... that / What... is) add emphasis and variety to your speech.
- →It is the lack of regulation that concerns me most.
- →What I find most interesting is the way technology has changed communication.
- →It was the experience of living abroad that really changed my perspective.
- Use 2–3 idioms per long answer — no more.
- Only use idioms you are 100% sure of.
- Safe idioms: 'double-edged sword', 'on the whole', 'keep up with', 'it goes without saying'.
- Use cleft sentences (It is... that / What... is) for emphasis and variety.
Answer these questions, trying to use at least one idiom and one cleft sentence in each answer: 1) What are the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city? 2) How important is it for people to have hobbies? 3) Do you think people today are more or less healthy than in the past?