Idioms For IELTS Speaking

Using idioms makes language sound more natural and also puts spice to what has probably become a very monotonous way of Writing or Speaking. Indeed, in Speaking, when you use the idioms correctly, your band score is likely to increase since it will be shown the extent of your mastery of the English language. Using idioms for IELTS pack meanings well and incorporate cultural aspects, which makes a speech relaying and natural when delivered. 

Idioms are phrases where the actual meaning of the words is not depicted, for instance, “break the ice” and “a piece of cake.” Speaking about idioms in the IELTS Speaking part tested your knowledge of using basic idioms for IELTS and quite casual English expressions. They also assist you in formulating ideas to the best of their ability, thus assisting you in the production of fluent ideas. These are key areas that may help get you some extra marks. Language that does not sound rehearsed is the language that examiners seek, and idioms provide just that. But remember to always use them in the right places and in a natural way. In fact, Misusing idioms, or using one while being coerced to do so may do more harm than good and drag your score down.

1. Why did you choose this career?

I chose this career because my last job was a piece of cake, and I did not want to do anything else as a job. What I’m chasing now is something that challenges me or forces me to learn new things. This career provides me with the challenges I need and remain on my toes as well as be in a position to learn all the time.

2. Do you think you will have the same career in the future?

Probably not, because with the developments in AI recently, I don’t think there are going to be software coders or any basic coding jobs in the future. I think it would be very foolish for me to put all my eggs in one basket and just hope for the best and hope that software development  lasts forever. But honestly, I don’t think it will.

3. What is your frequency of going out with friends?

I would go out almost every night, but since I had children, I don’t go out almost once, probably once in a blue moon. The majority of my friends either have children of their own like me or simply are transferred somewhere else. So it is rather rare to have an occasion where all your friends would be in the same room, right? Occasionally, during Christmas, when many of our friends come to visit during the festive season or during summer holidays when many of our friends are free, I may go out, but this is very rare nowadays.

4. Who is the cook in your home?

It became my wife’s main role in cooking since I do it a few times a week and not because she is a better cook. However, the thing I love most about my wife is that she always goes the extra mile in whatever she does. If I cook chicken, I will simply cook the basic stuff, and the only accompaniment it is likely to have is a slice of bread. But my wife will have three different sauces and balsamic vinegar, two different olive oils, and four different sorts of potatoes. Actually, she does everything that she can do in the kitchen for us in our house.

Here are some tips on basic idioms for IELTS speaking: 

• Choose relevant idioms that naturally fit the topic.
• Avoid forcing or overusing idioms in your answers.
• Practice common idioms beforehand and understand their meanings.
• Ensure clear pronunciation when using idioms.
• Use idioms confidently to avoid sounding awkward or confusing.

Avoid these mistakes: 

• Forcing idioms into your answers' speech sounds unnatural.
• Using idioms incorrectly or out of context.
• Overusing idioms, which can distract from your main point.
• Mispronouncing idioms may confuse the examiner.
• Using complex or unfamiliar idioms, you don’t fully understand.

Here are some more tips on idioms for IELTS speaking: 

1. Describe a recent experience:

Use the idiom “hit the nail on the head” (meaning: to be exactly right).

Example: “I suggested a new marketing strategy, and my boss said I hit the nail on the head with that idea.”

2. Talk about a challenging task:

Use the idiom “bite the bullet” (meaning: to do something difficult or unpleasant).

Example: “I had to bite the bullet and study all night before the exam.”

3. Express surprise:

Use the idiom “out of the blue” (meaning: unexpectedly).

Example: “My friend called me out of the blue after years of no contact.”

4.Discuss a learning moment:

Use the idiom “learn the ropes” (meaning: to understand the basics of something).

Example: “It took me a month to learn the ropes at my new job.”

5. Talk about an easy task:

Use the idiom “a piece of cake” (meaning: very easy).

Example: “The assignment was a piece of cake because I had done similar work before.”

• Outdated idioms like “raining cats and dogs”.  It can sound very old-fashioned.
• Clichés such as “every cloud has a silver lining”. This one lacks originality.
• Overly complex idioms like “burning the midnight oil”. This is a complex one and may confuse the listener.
• Slang idioms such as “spill the tea”. This one is too informal.

• Use idioms naturally within the context of your conversation and not as fillers. That way, they sound meaningful and have an effect.
• Focus on clarity and pronounce idioms clearly to avoid misunderstandings.
• Limit the number of idioms and use them sparingly for maximum impact. Avoid overusing.
• Understand the meaning deeply so that you can use idioms appropriately and avoid mistakes.
• Match idioms to your personality and use ones that reflect your speaking style and sound authentic.
• Practice with real-life scenarios with friends and family to build confidence in using idioms in various contexts.

To wrap it up, including basic idioms for the IELTS speaking part can greatly improve your quality of speaking, making it sound much more versatile. But, they should be used normally, and each of them a person should understand what it means as well as how to pronounce it correctly. Just practice now and then don’t overdo it. Finally, always ensure what you are practicing is most relevant and apt for practice for the examiner.

1. Why are Idioms Important in IELTS Speaking?

Idioms demonstrate your command of natural English. Your speech sounds more fluent and has an impact. They also show cultural understanding which can boost your score.

2. Can I Use any Idiom in IELTS Speaking?

It’s best to use idioms that are widely understood and fit naturally into the conversation. Avoid forced or complex idioms that might confuse the examiner.

3. How many Idioms should I use in my IELTS Speaking Test?

Limit the use of idioms to a few well-chosen ones. Overusing them can make your speech sound unnatural and forced.

4. What are some Common mistakes with idioms?

Common mistakes include using idioms incorrectly, mispronouncing them, or using idioms that don’t fit the context of your answer.

5. Can I Practice Idioms for IELTS Speaking?

Yes, practising idioms in daily conversations or mock tests can help you feel confident and use them more naturally during your exam.