IELTS Speaking Tips: Using Stronger Collocations Instead of 'Very' and 'Really'

As an intermediate IELTS student aiming for a Band 7 or above, enhancing your speaking skills is crucial. One common pitfall among students is the overuse of the words 'very' and 'really'. In this post, we’ll explore how to replace these words with stronger collocations, helping you express yourself more precisely and effectively.

Why Avoid 'Very' and 'Really' in IELTS Speaking?

Using 'very' and 'really' may seem harmless, but they can make your language sound repetitive and simplistic. IELTS examiners evaluate the richness and variety of your vocabulary. When you rely heavily on these words, you miss opportunities to showcase a broader range of expressions. Using stronger collocations not only adds depth to your language but also demonstrates your mastery of English.

Alternatives to 'Very' and 'Really'

To elevate your speaking score, consider substituting 'very' and 'really' with more descriptive adjectives or adverbs. Here’s a handy list of alternatives you can use:

1. Very happy → elated

3. Example: "I felt elated when I received the news."




4. Very big → enormous

6. Example: "The elephant was enormous, far larger than I had imagined."




7. Very sad → devastated

9. Example: "I was devastated after hearing about the accident."




10. Very tired → exhausted

12. Example: "After the marathon, I was completely exhausted."




13. Very important → crucial

15. Example: "This decision is crucial for my career."




16. Very beautiful → gorgeous

18. Example: "The sunset was absolutely gorgeous today."




19. Very interesting → fascinating

21. Example: "The documentary was fascinating and informative."

The sunset was beautiful, showcasing nature's colors.

Effective Usage of Collocations

To further understand the use of these collocations, it's essential to see them in context. Here are some sentences demonstrating their application:

• Instead of saying, "The book is very interesting," you could say, "The book is utterly fascinating." This not only specifies your view but also sounds more engaging.

  
  

• Rather than stating, "I am really happy with my results," consider saying, "I am absolutely thrilled with my results."

  
  

These substitutions add a level of sophistication to your speech, helping you stand out in the IELTS speaking test.

Why Stronger Collocations Matter

In IELTS speaking, your ability to convey ideas clearly and engagingly is paramount. Here are some key reasons why using stronger collocations can boost your scores:

1. Demonstrates Vocabulary Range: The more varied your vocabulary, the better. Examiners look for a wide range of vocabulary that accurately expresses your thoughts.

   
   

2. Encourages Critical Thinking: Using specific adjectives and adverbs makes you think deeper about what you want to communicate. It helps you articulate your feelings or opinions more precisely.

   
   

3. Enhances Clarity: Stronger collocations often convey meaning more explicitly than simple modifiers like 'very' or 'really'. This helps the listener understand your point quickly and easily.

   
   

4. Increases Band Score Potential: Since the lexical resource component is a vital part of the IELTS speaking score, using richer vocabulary means you are more likely to score a 7 or above.

   
   

Practice Makes Perfect

Now that you understand the importance and effectiveness of stronger collocations, it’s time to practice. Try the following exercise:

1. Identify: Take a short piece of text you’ve written or speak about a topic for one minute.

   
   

2. Replace: Go through your text or notes and replace any instance of 'very' or 'really' with more powerful alternatives.

   
   

3. Record: If you're practicing speaking, record yourself saying the modified sentences. Listen back to identify if your sentences sound more engaging.

   
   

4. Seek Feedback: Share your new sentences with a teacher, friend, or through forums where IELTS students gather.

   
   

A focused student practicing IELTS speaking at their desk.

Final Thoughts

Replacing words like 'very' and 'really' with stronger collocations can significantly improve your IELTS speaking performance. Not only does it make your language more vibrant and precise, but it also demonstrates your linguistic prowess to the examiners.

Remember, the goal is not just to impress but to communicate effectively. As you continue practicing, you'll find that your speech flows better and your confidence grows.

With dedication, practice, and the right strategies, you can enhance your IELTS speaking skills. One way to further that improvement is by consistently engaging with valuable resources online. For more tips, check out the comprehensive guide available at IELTS Speaking Resources.

Keep practicing, and soon, using powerful collocations will become second nature to you!