IELTS Training - Ten Miused Phrases to be Avoided

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IELTS Training 101

• Ten Common Misused Phrases in the IELTS

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Intro

• The IELTS examination is a paper-based
  examination gauging an individuals proficiency
  in using the English language. The test uses the
  four language skills speaking, listening,
  reading and writing- in measuring ones
  competency in the English language. Because of
  this, candidates for the examination, choose to
  attend classes in different IELTS review centers
  that will help them understand the test format
  and develop their skills better.

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ten misused phrases in the IELTS one should
avoid
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On the contrary

• This phrase is used to emphasize a negative
  statement on a previous statement. Most of the
  time, the idea presented following the phrase is
  somehow not usually accepted (as an idea) but is
  correct. The idea is to bring an alternative
  option to the common idea.
• Example
• John Guevarras family and relatives were known
  to excel in the field of medicine and science.
  They have already put up a lot hospitals and
  clinic around the globe. On the contrary, Johns
  brother, Michael, is a certified public
  accountant.

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In contrast

• Like on the contrary, this phrase is used to show
  contradicting ideas. Meaning to say, you are
  comparing two ideas and you use the expression to
  show the other side of one idea, not to emphasize
  your own viewpoint.
• Example
• There has been an increase in the unemployment
  rate in Cebu City. In contrast, Davao City has
  seen a 10 increase on the employment rate since
  2009.

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Used to verb

• When used to is paired with the original form of
  the verb indicates a past action or condition
  that existed. For example, you can say, I used to
  be a model. It means that in the past you were a
  model but now you are not. (note be
  (highlighted in red) is a verb).
• Example
• I used to live in a coastal barangay in the
  Philippines.

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Used to verb (ing)

• If used to is paired with a verb in ing, it
  means that something or an action is not new or
  strange for you to do. For instance, you say, I
  am used to using chopsticks. This means that
  somebody does not find it strange to use
  chopsticks. He or she can use it and it is not
  new for him or her.
• Example
• I used to loving the shore before factories were
  built here in our place.

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I could care less

• This expression is totally wrong as the right
  expression says , I couldnt care less. It means
  that you do not care much on something because
  you have no care to give. This is a misused
  expression commonly heard in conversations.
• Example
• I couldnt care less on who will win the
  elections. I am more concerned with my familys
  welfare.

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Alternately and alternatively

• Alternately simply means one after another
  hence, it is considered an adverb. On the other
  hand, alternatively means on the other hand one
  or another.
• Example
• The organization is using the power generated
  from the sun and the power produced from the grid
  alternately.
• Group A is planning to create a vehicle that will
  use biogas. Alternatively, group B will be
  responsible for a vehicle that will use solar
  energy.

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Intensive purposes

• This has been quite evident in some writing and
  this is totally a huge mistake. This should be
  written as for all intent and purposes.
• Example
• For all intent and purposes, a financial
  statement for all company expenses must be posted
  on the bulletin board.

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Kind of and Sort of

• These are okay in informal conversation or
  writings. However, when writing a formal type of
  essay, better use the expressions somewhat or
  slightly.
• Example
• Formal The left eye is somewhat bigger than the
  right eye.
• Informal The left eye is kind of bigger than the
  right eye.

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Due to the fact that

• This is too words and it makes your sentence
  wrong. If you mean because, settle with due
  to. Therefore, avoid using the said expression.
• Example
• The cliff eroded due to the strong waves from
  the sea.
• The cliff eroded because of the strong waves from
  the sea.

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The reason why is because

• Redundancy at its peak! The reason is should be
  used rather than this expression. Do not make
  expressions longer just to sound smart.
• Example
• Lack of practice is one of the reasons why people
  fail the IELTS exam.
• Most people fail the IELTS exam because of lack
  of practice.

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More useful resources can be found at

• IELTS Blog http//www.jroozreview.com/ielts-blog
  
• IELTS Exams Tips http//www.ieltsexamstips.com

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You can download the following for free

• IELTS Sample Essay Brain Drain
• http//www.docstoc.com/docs/163370560/ielts-writin
  g---brain-drain
• IELTS Grammar Prepositions of, to, for -
  https//drive.google.com/file/d/0BwIiwLcD96zudVVLa
  zcybXVad1E/edit?uspsharing
• Popular IELTS Writing Topics General Training -
• http//www.scribd.com/doc/177051451/Popular-IELTS-
  Writing-Topics-for-General-Training-Module-Task-1
•  
• Popular IELTS Speaking Topics -
• http//issuu.com/jemccoy/docs/ielts_speaking_topic
  s_popular_-_iel