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Top Phrases for IELTS Speaking Test 2025

Updated on 17 March, 2025

Sunita Kadian

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

ielts speaking phrases

Did you know that using strategic phrases can double your chances of scoring high in the  International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Speaking Test? The IELTS Speaking Test, spanning 11-15 minutes assesses a candidate’s ability to express ideas clearly across three parts; including, an introduction, a long turn, and a discussion. Mastering key phrases to give opinions, answer questions, and express ideas fluently with coherence can elevate your band score. 

So, if you are eyeing a band score of 9 in the speaking section, you have arrived on the right platform, where you will learn top phrases for IELTS speaking test 2025.

Also Read: How to Prepare for IELTS Speaking in 2025- Speaking Tips

Top Phrases for IELTS Speaking Test 2025

Clearing the IELTS Speaking Test with a high score is crucial for anyone keen to study abroad, as it demonstrates the ability of the candidate to communicate confidently in an English-speaking environment. Mastering the top phrases taught in an online study abroad premium prep course will help you articulate your ideas more naturally and achieve a higher band score. 

So, to help you in this regard, we are sharing 20 top phrases for the IELTS Speaking Test 2025:

1. Starting Your Response

These phrases can help you get some time to think before straight away answering the question asked in the IELTS Test, and are perfect to kickstart the conversation confidently:

Phrase 1: "That's an interesting question..."

Meaning: This phrase helps acknowledge that the question is relevant and gives you time to think before answering.

Example: That's an interesting question. I believe people these days are concerned about climate change.

Phrase 2: "I’d like to start by saying that..."

Meaning: It allows you to express your initial thoughts clearly and confidently.

Example: I’d like to start by saying that inflation plays a crucial role in shaping the economy of a country.

Phrase 3: “To start with…”

Meaning: Sets the ground for a detailed discussion.

Example: To start with, I'd like to outline the main reasons why public transport is preferred over private vehicles in many cities…

2.Expressing Personal Opinions

It will act in your favor if you use some apt phrases to express your personal views and opinions during the speaking test IELTS. 

Phrase 1: "In my opinion..."

Meaning: This phrase is used to introduce a personal perspective or viewpoint.

Example: In my opinion, enrolling in a Data Science course can help you get the highest-earning jobs in the UK, Canada, and other top countries of the world. 

Phrase 2: "I think that..."

Meaning: It is a commonly used phrase to express a personal belief or thought.

Example: I think that AI has both advantages and disadvantages for humankind.

Phrase 3: "I believe that..."

Meaning: Help expressing a firm personal belief or conviction.

Example: I believe that one should exercise regularly with consistency. 

3. Agreeing or Disagreeing

These phrases are used to sound natural and confident when expressing whether you agree or disagree with a discussion point.

Phrase 1: "I see where you’re coming from, yet I’d say…"

Meaning: Helps acknowledge another person’s viewpoint before presenting a differing opinion.

Example: I see where you are coming from, yet I’d say that technology like Artificial Intelligence has made our lives more convenient rather than more complicated.

Phrase 2: "I couldn’t agree more! That’s exactly how I see it."

Meaning: This phrase is used to strongly agree with a point of view.

Example: I couldn’t agree more! That’s exactly how I see it. Remote work helps increase employee productivity.

Phrase 3: "That’s a fair point, but I’d have to disagree slightly because…"

Meaning: You can politely disagree while acknowledging the validity of the other person’s argument using this phrase.

Example: That’s a fair point, but I’d have to disagree slightly because online education can easily make education accessible to all. 

4. Giving Examples 

To support your point of view, feel free to cite examples during the IELTS speaking test, wherever you feel relevant.

Phrase 1: "For example..."

Meaning: Introduces a specific instance to support a statement. 

Example: For example, Mahatma Gandhi and Rabindranath Tagore successfully fought against the English education system forced by the British in India. 

Phrase 2: "For instance..."

Meaning: Used as another way to introduce a relevant example.

Example: For instance, many people now prefer enrolling in an online MBA rather than an on-campus program.

Phrase 3: "To illustrate this point..."

Meaning: This phrase is used to clarify an idea by giving an example.

Example: To illustrate this point, consider how smartphones have revolutionized communication. 

5. Clarifying or Rephrasing a Question

How would you react if you didn’t understand a question asked in the IELTS speaking test? Don’t get nervous there, instead use these phrases to clarify or confirm the question.

Phrase 1: “If I  understand correctly…”

Meaning: Helps check whether your interpretation of the question is accurate.
Example: If I understand correctly, you’re asking whether technology has improved education?

Phrase 2: “So, just to be clear…”

Meaning: This phrase ensures clarity before answering.
Example: So, just to be clear, you’re asking about the benefits of living in a big city?

Phrase 3: “Do you mean to say that…”

Meaning: This phrase is used to request further clarification on the question.
Example: "Do you mean to say that cultural differences can affect communication in international business?"

6. Adding a Point in the Middle

You can score better in the IELTS speaking test by adding some points in the middle of a conversation where you can add more relevant details.

Phrase 1: “Furthermore…”

Meaning: If used appropriately, this phrase adds more information to the existing discussion.

Example: Furthermore, studies show that early education influences career success.

Phrase 2: “On top of that…”

Meaning: Introduces an additional, often stronger or more important, supporting point.

Example: On top of that, sleeping early can help build cells in the body and destress the entire body.

Phrase 3: “Moreover, we must not forget that…”

Meaning: It helps emphasize an important point that should not be overlooked.

Example: Moreover, we must not forget that studying MBA in the USA or any other overseas country from a top university can open the door to exciting career opportunities.

7. Contrasting Ideas

When comparing two different perspectives or presenting counterpoints, the usage of some particular phrases will work in your favor in the IELTS speaking exam.

Phrase 1: “That being said,...”

Meaning: Introduces a contrasting point while acknowledging the previous statement.

Example: I love living in a big city because of the convenience. That being said, the high cost of living can be a major challenge.

Phrase 2: “On one hand,.....; on the other hand,...”

Meaning: Presents two different perspectives or contrasting aspects of an issue

Example: On one hand, studying in India is cheap; on the other hand, studying abroad can pave a path for a better career.

Phrase 3: “However…”

Meaning: Indicates a contrast or contradiction to the previous statement.

Example: The new policy is intended to reduce pollution. However, some businesses argue that it increases operational costs.

8. Forgetting the Word You Wanted to Say

Don’t panic in case you forget to say a word during your response, use the following best phrases to recover smoothly.

Phrase 1: “My apologies, I’ve lost the word I wanted to use, but essentially…”

Meaning: Apologizes for forgetting a word but continues with the explanation.

Example: My apologies; I've lost the word I wanted to use, but essentially, it's about how using phrases can help score high in the IELTS Speaking Test.

Phrase 2: “I can’t think of the word right now, but it is something like…”

Meaning: Acknowledges difficulty in recalling a word while giving an approximate explanation.

Example: I can’t think of the word right now, but it is something like a machine that can help recall what you aimed to do on a particular day.

Phrase 3: “I can’t recall the exact term…”

Meaning: Signals forgetfulness while keeping the conversation flowing.

Example: I can’t recall the exact term, but it refers to the process of plants releasing oxygen into the air.

9. Coherence - Repeating Yourself 

Repeating yourself for clarity and emphasis during your conversation in the IELTS test is not a bad idea. You can do it smoothly and confidently if you know the right phrases.

Phrase 1: “To put it another way…”

Meaning: Rephrases an idea for better clarity.

Example: To put it another way, regular exercise not only helps you stay fit but also improves mental well-being.

Phrase 2: “In other words…”

Meaning: Restate something differently

Example: In other words, living the British helped ban some social evils during their reign in India.

Phrase 3: “As I mentioned earlier,...”

Meaning: Refers back to something previously stated to reinforce an idea.

Example: As I mentioned earlier, climate change is a pressing issue that affects every aspect of our lives.

10. Expressing Doubt or Hesitation

What if you are unsure about an answer, but still want to respond? You can use the following phrases to express doubt or hesitation but with confidence.

Phrase 1: “That’s a tough call, but if I had to guess…”

Meaning: Acknowledges difficulty but makes an educated guess.

Example: That’s a tough call, but if I had to guess, I’d say the industrial revolution had the biggest impact on modern society.

Phrase 2: “Hmm, that’s a tricky one…”

Meaning: Buys time to think while acknowledging the difficulty of the question.

Example: Hmm, that’s a tricky one… I suppose technology has both advantages and disadvantages in education.

Phrase 3: “I might be wrong, but…”

Meaning: Indicates uncertainty while still providing an opinion.

Example: I might be wrong, but I believe the term refers to a law that protects endangered species.

11. Expressing that What You Just Said Was Rubbish 

It’s okay to make mistakes, even if you are appearing in the Speaking Test IELTS, you can still correct yourself using some strategic phrases taught in online IELTS preparation courses.

Phrase 1: “Actually, let me rephrase that…”

Meaning: Allows for a correction without hesitation.

Example: Actually, let me rephrase that. What I meant to say was that renewable energy is becoming more affordable.

Phrase 2: “From my perspective, that doesn’t quite add up because…”

Meaning: Indicates that from the speaker's viewpoint, the logic or facts presented are questionable.

Example: From my perspective, that doesn't quite add up because the data does not correlate.

Phrase 3: “Let me say that again…”

Meaning: Signals a correction or a clearer way to express a point.

Example: Let me say that again—what I meant was that studying a new language can be challenging but rewarding.

12. Trying Variations

You can score well in the IELTS speaking test by using the following phrases to rephrase your point for better clarity or variety.

Phrase 1: “Or to put it another way….”

Meaning:  Introduces a reworded or simplified version of what was just said.

Example: Or to put it another way, regular physical activity doesn’t just improve fitness, it also enhances mental well-being.

Phrase 2: “On the other hand…”

Meaning: Introduces a contrasting idea.

Example: On the other hand, some experts believe that studying early in the morning helps retain more information.

Phrase 3: “Alternatively…”

Meaning: Suggests a different possibility or perspective.

Example: Alternatively, one could argue that such a policy might hinder economic growth.

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13. Emphasizing 

Impress the examiner by using the following phrases to stress the importance of a point during your IELTS speaking exam. 

Phrase 1: “Absolutely!...”

Meaning: Expresses strong agreement or certainty.

Example: Absolutely! Climate change is one of the biggest challenges of our time, and we must take action now.

Phrase 2: “I strongly believe that…”

Meaning: Clearly states a firm personal opinion.

Example: I strongly believe that online education has helped working professionals strike a balance between work, study, and family.

Phrase 3: “Without a doubt…”

Meaning: Emphasizes that something is certain.

Example: Without a doubt, technology has revolutionized the way we communicate.

14. Conditionals 

During your IELTS Speaking Test Part 3, you may be asked to frame conditional sentences, where you must use one situation as a condition for the occurrence of another situation. 

Phrase 1: “If that happened, I would probably…”

Meaning: Describes a hypothetical situation and its possible outcome.

Example: If that happened, I would probably move to another city to find better job opportunities.

Phrase 2: “If I had to choose, I would say…”

Meaning: Expresses a preference when making a difficult choice.

Example: If I had to choose, I would say studying abroad is a great experience because it exposes you to different cultures.

Phrase 3: “If I were in that situation…”

Meaning: Imagine how one would react in a specific scenario.

Example: If I were in that situation, I would try to stay calm and find a logical solution.

15. Transition Words 

If you have too much to express and want to shift from one idea to another smoothly, use the following transition words in a phrase.

Phrase 1: “That reminds me…”

Meaning: Introduces a related thought or memory.

Example: That reminds me, I read an article about how a Letter of Recommendation can boost your chances of getting admission to a foreign university.

Phrase 2: “Speaking of that…”

Meaning:  Connects the current topic to a related subject.

Example: Speaking of that, I recently attended a seminar on sustainable energy solutions.

Phrase 3: “By the way…”

Meaning: Introduces a side note or additional information.

Example: By the way, did you know that the USA, Canada, the UK, and Australia are the best countries to study abroad for Indian students in 2025?

16. Expressing Possibilities

There could be instances, where the examiner might discuss something that might happen, so in that case, you must use phrases that express possibilities. 

Phrase 1: “It’s possible that…”

Meaning:  Indicates a potential outcome or situation.

Example: It’s possible that the emerging affordable housing societies in Chandigarh will boost the real estate market.

Phrase 2: “There’s a good chance that…”

Meaning: Suggests that something is likely to happen.

Example: There’s a good chance that remote work will become the new normal.

Phrase 3: “It’s likely that…”

Meaning: Expresses a strong probability.

Example: It’s likely that we might face another pandemic if we do not stop playing with nature.

17. Speculating 

Instead of going blank on a question asked by the examiner during the IELTS English Speaking Tets, try speculating using the following phrases for an unknown situation. 

Phrase 1: “I’d imagine that…”

Meaning: Gives a reasoned guess about something.

Example: I’d imagine that data science will play a major role in shaping the future of industries such as healthcare, finance, and marketing by enabling smarter decision-making.

Phrase 2: “It’s likely that…”

Meaning: Predicts a possible future outcome.

Example: It’s likely that more people will look for jobs with remote working in the coming years.

Phrase 3: “I suppose that…”

Meaning: Makes a cautious assumption.

Example: I suppose that social media has both positive and negative effects on mental health.

18. Expressing Uncertainty

You can not be sure of everything you say during the speaking test, so make it clear that you are uncertain about what you are saying by using the appropriate phrases.

Phrase 1: "I’m not entirely sure, but..."

Meaning: Admits uncertainty while still giving an answer.

Example: I’m not entirely sure, but I think the first smartphones were introduced in the early 2000s.

Phrase 2: “It’s hard to say, but…”

Meaning: Acknowledges difficulty in answering while still offering a thought.

Example: It’s hard to say, but I believe artificial intelligence will impact almost every industry.

Phrase 3: "I might be wrong, but..."

Meaning: Expresses doubt while making an educated guess.

Example: I might be wrong, but I think space tourism will become more common in the next decade.

19. Seeking Feedback

It would be a good idea to show your respect to the examiner and a good way to do so is by seeking feedback during your conversation using the right phrases.

Phrase 1: “What  do you think about that?”

Meaning: Invites the examiner’s opinion to create a natural discussion.

Example: What do you think about that? Do you believe AI will take over creative jobs?

Phrase 2: “Would you agree with that?”

Meaning: Asks for confirmation or agreement.

Example: Would you agree with that? Many people believe reading books is still essential despite the rise of digital media.

Phrase 3: “Does that make sense?”

Meaning: Helps check if the listener understands your point.

Example: Does that make sense? I mean that urbanization has both benefits and drawbacks.

20. The Conclusion

No matter how well you spoke during your IELTS speaking test, if you end it the wrong way, you will lose marks, so wrap it up with a smooth finish using the right phrases. 

Phrase 1: “In conclusion,...”

Meaning: Begins the final summary of the discussion.

Example: In conclusion, there are pros and cons to this situation.

Phrase 2: “Summing up,...”

Meaning: The conclusion will be made by summarizing the key points discussed.

Example: Summing up, we have discussed both the advantages and challenges of remote work.

Phrase 3: “To wrap things up…”

Meaning: Signals the conclusion of a discussion.

Example: To wrap things up, I'd like to restate the importance of this issue.

Also Read: What is a Good IELTS Score?

Example Situations with Phrases

The horizon of the English language is vast and so is the scope to use so many other phrases for the IELTS English Exam. Besides the above-mentioned top phrases for the IELTS 2025 Speaking Test, a candidate aiming to score a band 9 score can try these 20 situation-based phrases:

1. Expressing Surprise

Used to show shock or amazement when something unexpected happens.

  • “Wow, I didn’t expect that…”
  • “That’s unbelievable!...”
  • “I was really surprised to learn that…”

2. Expressing Disappointment 

Used to convey sadness or dissatisfaction when some expectations are not met.

  • “I was hoping for… but…”
  • “That’s a bit disappointing…”
  • “I must admit, I expected better…”

3. Expressing Enthusiasm

Used to show strong interest or excitement in something.

  • “I’m really excited about…”
  • “It’s absolutely fascinating!...”
  • “I love the idea of…”

4. Making a Strong Assertion

Used to put forth a firm opinion or conviction about something.

  • “There’s no doubt in my mind that…”
  • “I firmly believe…”
  • “It’s crystal clear that…”

5. Talking About a Hypothetical Past

Used to discuss what could have happened differently if circumstances were different.

  • “If I had known earlier, I would have…”
  • “Had I realized that…”
  • “Looking back, I should have…”

6. Comparing Experiences

Used to highlight similarities or differences between personal experiences.

  • “Compared to…”
  • “In my experience…”
  • “From what I’ve seen…”

7. Talking About Future

Used to discuss predictions, possibilities, or expectations about what lies ahead.

  • “In the coming years…”
  • “I can see a future where…”
  • “It’s likely that…”

8 Expressing Regret 

Used when reflecting on past mistakes or missed opportunities.

  • “I wish I had…”
  • “If only I had…”
  • “I regret not…”

9. Making a Guess

Used when uncertain but trying to estimate or assume something. 

  • “I’d say it’s probably…”
  • “It could be that…”
  • “If I had to guess, I’d say…”

10. Describing Frequency

Used to talk about how often something happens.

  • “I rarely…”
  • “Every now and then…”
  • “More often than not…”

11. Describing an Emotion or Feeling

Used to express personal emotions and reactions to situations.

  • “I find it really exciting when…”
  • “It makes me feel so…”
  • “Nothing beats the feeling of…”

12. Describing a Process

Used to explain steps or instructions for completing something. 

  • “The first step is…”
  • “After that…”
  • “Finally, you…”

13. Describing a Problem and Solution

Used to present an issue and suggest ways to solve it.

  • “One issue is that…”
  • “A possible solution could be…”
  • “To overcome this, we need to…”

14. Making an Assumption

Used to express what one believes to be true without definite proof.

  • “I assume that…”
  • “It’s safe to say that…”
  • “I take it that…”

15. Expressing a Preference

Used to indicate what one favours over another option.

  • “I’d rather…”
  • “Given the choice, I would…”
  • “I tend to prefer…”

16. Describing an Unusual Situation

Used to talk about something out of the ordinary or extraordinary. 

  • “It was unlike anything I had experienced before…”
  • “It was so strange because…”
  • “I couldn’t believe what was happening…”

17. Expressing Time-Related Ideas

Used to refer to different time periods (past, present, or future).

  • “Back in the day…”
  • “Nowadays…”
  • “In the near future…”

18. Talking About Cultural Differences 

Used to complain or talk about something irritating.

  • “In my country, people usually…”
  • “A major cultural difference is…”
  • “Unlike in some places…”

19. Expressing Frustration or Annoyance

Used to complain or talk about something irritating. 

  • “It really bothers me when…”
  • “I can’t stand it when…”
  • “It’s so frustrating that…”

20. Expressing Gratitude or Appreciation

Used to show thankfulness or acknowledge kindness.

  • “I really appreciate…”
  • “I’m grateful for…”
  • “I can’t thank you enough for…” 

Also Read: IELTS Speaking Test: What All You Should Know

Do's and Don'ts of Using Phrases in IELTS Speaking Tests

Using the suitable phrases in the IELTS Speaking Test can enhance your fluency and showcase your language skills. However, improper usage can do the opposite and deduct your marks. 

So, here is a quick guide for you to learn how to strike a balance with the do’s and don’ts of using phrases in the IELTS Speaking Test:

Do’s Don’ts
1. Use natural, conversational phrases 1. Don’t use complex phrases that are hard to understand
2. Use Idioms appropriately and in the right context 2. Don’t force idioms where they don’t fit
3. Use the appropriate linking words for fluency 3. Avoid using fillers like “you know” and “hmm”
4. Speak clearly with correct pronunciation 4. Don’t repeat the same phrases often
5. Use the phrases in your daily conversations to be at ease on  your exam day 5. Avoid formal phrases when answering simple generic questions about you and your life

Also Read: Benefits of IELTS Coaching

Useful Phrases for IELTS Speaking Part 1 

The table below enlists some essential phrases to help you confidently answer questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1. These expressions will make your responses more natural and fluent:

Phrases Meanings Examples
A penny for your thoughts Asking someone about their thoughts After the review meeting, the manager turned to John and said, ‘a penny for your thoughts, John.’
Lend an ear To listen to someone  If you are facing a problem at work, go to the HR manager as she lends a sympathetic ear.
On cloud nine To be in a merry state After the UPSC results were announced, Triveni found herself on cloud nine as she secured 400th rank.
Hit the hay Go to bed Neha is very particular about her daily routine. She hits the hay by 10 PM.
Full of beans Used for a person full of life and healthy Everyone enjoys Ram’s company at work as he is full of beans.
Lend/give a hand Helping someone Can you lend me a hand with this jar? 
A piece of cake Something easy and hassle-free Salsa dancing seems like a piece of cake to me after the first lesson. 
Sit on the fence Indecisive about something I am still sitting on the fence about that issue. 
Soul mate Someone you love and trust the most She is not just a simple crush but my soul mate. 

Also Read: IELTS Speaking Test Format 2025

Useful Phrases for IELTS Speaking Part 2 

In IELTS Speaking Part 2, you need to speak for up to two minutes on a given topic. These useful phrases will help you structure your response smoothly and confidently:

Phrases Meanings Usage in a sentence
Bushed Tired She got bushed after the late-night party and decided to rest the next day.
Be ears Ready to listen to someone Meera is all ears when it comes to solving someone’s problems.
In the nick of time At the exact moment, She arrived at the station in the nick of time.
In deep water To be in a difficult state He is in deep waters as he did not submit his report on time.
To bite the bullet To do a difficult task If he wants a promotion, he will have to bite the bullet and complete the project before the deadline.
Go/going back to the drawing board This means starting to plan something all over again due to the failure of the first strategy Go back to the drawing board and work out the mechanics afresh. 
On the go/move Busy or on the way Pick up smiles and blessings on the go, since life is too short! 
Walking/going the extra mile It means doing more than the norm and putting in a lot more effort I will walk the extra mile to make her happy
Crash Course A short and engaging lesson on something I took a crash course in marketing before applying for a job. 
Cram Trying to memorize something quickly. The job applicants are all cramming for their entrances

Useful Phrases for IELTS Speaking Part 3

IELTS Speaking Part 3 involves discussing abstract topics in depth. These useful phrases will help you express your opinions clearly and develop well-structured responses:

Phrases Meanings Usage in a sentence
Next to nothing Inexpensive; cost nothing Sheena bought a beautiful dress for next to nothing; it cost her 4 dollars only. 
Explore all avenues To explore every means to get to the solution of a particular problem She does not give in to any problem and explores all the avenues to come out of it.
On the ball Active and aware Our team leader is on the ball with the progress of the project.
Throw in the towel To Surrender After failing the engineering entrance exam; he threw in the towel on his dreams of becoming an engineer.
By the skin of one’s teeth barely I was saved by the skin of my teeth in an accident.
Upmarket posh, premium, and costly. He lived in Notting Hill, one of the up-market residential localities of London. 
In high spirits Elated and happy They were in high spirits after a couple of hot beverages. 
Get the ball rolling Start something or a venture I decided to get the ball rolling on my new project. 

How can upGrad Help You Learn Phrases for IELTS Speaking Test

Achieving a high band score in the IELTS Speaking Test needs not only fluency but also strategic use of phrases for better expressiveness. upGrad, a leading online learning platform offers a range of resources and online courses to help you master the best phrases for the IELTS speaking examination.

Enrol now and become confident and ready to score high in the IELTS Speaking Test by pursuing the following courses from upGrad:

Do you need help deciding which are the most popular courses to study abroad? Contact upGrad for personalized counseling and valuable insights. For more details, you can also visit your nearest upGrad Study Abroad center.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to score better in the IELTS Speaking Test?

You can score better in the IELTS Speaking Test by pronouncing words well, using good vocabulary, and appropriate phrases wherever possible. Besides, try engaging in mock tests, seeking feedback from experts, and refining your answers while maintaining clarity when you speak. Also, try to watch English movies and programs to improve your pronunciation and read books to improve your grammar and vocabulary.

What is the IELTS Speaking Test?

The IELTS Speaking Test is one of the 4 parts of the IELTS English Exam. It is an oral exam designed to assess a candidate’s fluency, grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation in a face-to-face interview with the examiner. It includes a brief interview comprising an introduction, individual long turns, discussions, and conversations on real-life situations to evaluate the English-speaking abilities of the candidate. 

Should you master the top phrases for the IELTS Speaking Test?

Mastering the top phrases for the IELTS Speaking Test helps enrich the vocabulary and makes you more confident and fluent when speaking, thereby enhancing your chances to score high. Familiarity with common phrases helps improve response coherence and enables smooth transitions between questions asked by the examiner. Besides, it also makes you sound more natural. 

Which IELTS speaking phrases should you use?

There are several phrases that you can use to score higher in the IELTS Speaking Exam such as:

  • “Let me think for a moment…”
  • “To be honest…”
  • “That’s a good question…”
  • “I strongly believe that…”
  • “In my opinion…”

How to ace the IELTS Speaking Test in 2025?

The following tips will help you ace the IELTS Speaking Test in 2025:

  • Developing fluency
  • Using appropriate phrases
  • Using appropriate idioms
  • Remaining confident during your responses
  • Practicing sample topics and recording for self-evaluation

How do idioms help in IELTS?

Using the right idioms at the appropriate place during the speaking exam IELTS can enhance your language by adding natural flair and expressions. Idioms, if used correctly can help impress the examiners by demonstrating your advanced vocabulary and linguistic skills. However, it is important to use them accurately and sparingly, overuse may do the opposite and deduct your marks. 

Can I use slang or informal phrases in the IELTS Speaking test?

You are not advised to use slang or informal phrases in the IELTS Speaking Test. The examiner may prefer candidates who speak naturally with a bit of informality, but overly casual expressions may not be appreciated by the examiner. Slangs and informal phrases may therefore go against you and you might end up getting your points deducted in the IELTS Speaking Exam. 

How can I buy time if I need to think before answering in the IELTS Speaking Test?

There can be instances when you want to buy time before answering something asked by the examiner in the IELTS Speaking Test, and this is where you need to use the right phrases such as:

  • “That’s an interesting question…”
  • “Let me consider that for a moment…”
  • “That’s a tough one! I guess I would say…”
  • “Well, I haven’t thought about that before, but I’d say…”

How can I introduce examples effectively?

To  introduce examples during your IELTS Speaking Test, try using phrases such as:

  • “For instance…”
  • “Such as…”
  • “To give you an idea…”
  • “One example that comes to mind is…”
  • “Take (something) as an example…”

What transition phrases can I use to move between ideas?

Besides the common transition phrases like “Furthermore,...” and “However,...”, you can use the following phrases when moving between ideas during your IELTS Speaking Test:

  • “Besides that,...”
  • “As I was saying…”
  • “On the other hand…”
  • “That being said,...”
  • “At the same time…”

What are some alternative ways to say "I don’t know" without losing points?

It may happen that you don’t know something asked by the examiner during the IELTS Speaking Test. So, instead of saying “I don’t know”, use smart phrases to show uncertainty and drive the conversation in another direction. Use phrases like:

  • “I’m uncertain at the moment…”
  • “I need to think about that…”
  • “To be honest, I’m not sure, but I can try to answer…”
  • “That’s a good question! I haven’t thought about it before…”
  • “I don’t have much knowledge about this, but what I can say is…”

Sunita Kadian

IELTS Expert

Sunita Kadian, co-founder and Academic Head at Yuno Learning is an expert in IELTS and English communication. With a background in competitive exam preparation (IELTS, GMAT, CAT, TOEFL), interview prep, and corporate soft skills training, she has adapted these programs for the Yuno platform. Her dedication and commitment earned high praise from students, especially for her public speaking and advanced speaking English courses. Sunita's mastery of language nuances and articulation makes her a favorite among IELTS students. She holds a Postgraduate degree in English Literature, a B.Ed., and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Relations.

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