To get a high band score in the IELTS Speaking Test, it’s important to use a wide range of language. But this doesn’t simply mean ‘lots of different words’. It also means that you can use English to perform different functions, such as giving opinions, asking for clarification and summarising your ideas.
This post contains some useful expressions that you can use in all parts of the IELTS Speaking Test. You will also find them useful in any kind of conversational situation, including job interviews and discussions. I hope you find it useful!
You can also download this list as a PDF.
Agreeing with somebody
- I agree
- I couldn’t agree more.
- That’s my view exactly.
- That’s just what I think.
- That’s right.
Disagreeing with someone
- I don’t entirely agree
- I see things differently.
- Well, actually I don’t think…
- I’m afraid I don’t agree.
Interrupting someone
- Could I just say that…?
- Sorry to interrupt, but…
- Sorry for interrupting…
- Can I just interrupt?
- Sorry to butt in, …
Asking someone for their opinion
- What are your views on…?
- What do you think about…?
- Do you agree that…?
- Do you think that…?
- What are your feelings about…?
- What’s your opinion?
Asking for clarification / repetition
- Could you repeat the question, please?
- I’m sorry, I didn’t catch that.
- I’m sorry?
- Would you mind repeating that, please?
Saying something in a different way
- In other words,…
- What I mean is…
- Perhaps I should make that clearer.
- To put it another way, …
- What I’m trying to say is…
Giving yourself time to think
- How can I put this?
- Let me think about that (for a moment).
- Let me see.
- That’s an interesting / good question.
Summing up what you have said
- So basically…
- So, in conclusion…
- In short, …
- To sum up…
- To summarise
Practice Activity
Complete these short dialogues between the interviewer and the student. Fill the blank space with the correct expression. Good luck!
