• IELTS
Linking Words for IELTS Speaking - Word List & Tips
- 30679 Reads
- 3 min Read
The blog first talks about what linking words in IELTS peaking mean. Then, it discusses a word list of these linking words that be used in IELTS speaking. Further, it gives some tips that can be used for linking words in speaking. The blog also gives examples of using these linking words in answers in the speaking module of the IELTS exam.
Table of Contents
Linking words serve as the verbal "glue" that holds your ideas and phrases together.
They aid in making connections between your sentences and are crucial in demonstrating your ability to organize your thoughts cogently in the IELTS test.
They are sometimes referred to as cohesive or connecting devices.
Although many linking words can be used in both speaking and writing, some should only be used in writing and others should only be used in speaking.
In fact, using "academic" or "written English" connectors in IELTS Speaking is one of the major mistakes students make. They occasionally use the following:
- Nevertheless
- Furthermore
- Thus
- It can be concluded that
But furthermore, this leads to the conclusion that this doesn't sound natural. You must employ spoken, idiomatic linking words when taking the IELTS Speaking test.
Linking Words in IELTS Speaking – Word List
The blog here gives a list of connectors or linking words for IELTS speaking. The blog here gives tips and models for linking words for IELTS speaking. To help the examiner follow your ideas and concepts while giving the speaking exam, you will require some basic linking words and phrases that are spoken naturally. The linking words or connectors for IELTS speaking are very basic and informal.
Giving additional information
- As well as
- And
- Also
- Another reason is
Talking about time
- At the moment
- Right now
- At present
- These days
- Nowadays
- In the past
- Now
- Before
- Years ago
- When I was younger
Citing examples
- For instance
- Like
- Such as
- For example
Being clear
- As I was saying
- What I want to clarify is
- What I mean is
Concessions and Contrats
- Although
- But
- On the other hand
- Although
- While
- Or
Causes and Solutions
- Because
- The best way to solve this is
- I guess the only answer is to
- It was caused by
- I suppose the best way to tackle this problem is
- I guess it’s because
- The main reason is
Idea expression
- I think the main difference between A and B is
- I think one difference is
- I guess one important thing is
Also read : IELTS - Overview
Some More Linking Words
For example, for instance, to illustrate this To give examples
For example, for instance, to illustrate this | To give examples |
Because, since, thus, that is why | To give an explanation or reason |
Actually, I have to say | To preface what you really think |
I must admit | To confess that something is true |
On the other hand | To introduce another point of view |
Well | To give yourself time to think |
Also, as well as | To add ideas |
Similarly, as, in the same way | To compare |
Even though, despite, yet | To contrast |
So that, so, for this reason | To express a result/purpose |
Even though this list is far from complete, it's a nice place to start.
Another recommendation for a band 9 response is to avoid using the same linking words more than once and to avoid using only the easiest ones (like and, or, but, however, still).
Make sure your linking words are varied and appropriate for the context; for example, the words "notwithstanding," "hereby," "hence," and "correspondingly" seem more natural when written down than when spoken.
Also read: IELTS Eligibility
Citing examples of Linking Words in IELTS Speaking
In the following question and answers, linking words that have been used have been highlighted.
Q: Do you like eating a lot of fruit?
A: Of course, I do. I love eating fruits like mangoes and pineapples which are tropical ones.
Q: Do you think junk food is bad?
A: Yes, I think so. If junk food is eaten quite often, it can cause health issues such as diabetes or heart disease. Also, eating junk food frequently can lead to obesity and weight-related problems.
Q: Do kids these days play similar games that were played in the past?
A: No, I guess they don’t do so. Earlier, kids used to play basic and simple games like hide and seek or they used to play with simple handmade toys. But, nowadays, kids rather play online or computer games and even their toys are machine or battery-operated.
Also read: IELTS Exam type
Some Common Errors in linking Words in Speaking
The examples given below in form of questions and answers will help you understand what are the common errors in linking words in IELTS speaking.
Q: Do you like to go out with friends?
A: Of course, I like to do so. At first, it gives me a chance to relax. Secondly, I can catch up with them. At last, it allows me an opportunity to visit new places.
Errors: The way linking words have been used here is too formal. This turns out to be inappropriate and might not help in getting a high band score.
The answer should be spoken in the following way:
A: Of course, I like to do so. It’s fantastic to be able to get a chance to chill out and catch up with my friends. Also, we often visit new places which I enjoy a lot.
Also read: IELTS test dates
Tips for using Linking Words in IELTS speaking
- Avoid using formal linking words for answers to questions that are simple and ask you about yourself and your life.
- You need not worry about repeating linking words in IELTS speaking as this is not similar to IELTS writing.
- The most basic and common linking words for speaking are: but, and, because, like, also etcetera.
- “Like” as a linking word is used to give examples in IELTS speaking only and not in IELTS writing.
- You might not get a higher band score if you used a variety of linking words.
- Linking words in speaking are used to aid the listener understand the spoken ideas and concepts better.
- Linking words are used informally in IELTS speaking.
- Linking words are a part of the marking criterion of “fluency and coherence” which accounts for 25% of your marking criteria.
In conclusion, answering the exam question appropriately, offering sufficient detail, and displaying strong vocabulary and grammar are not the sole requirements for achieving band 9.
Additionally, make sure that your thoughts flow naturally and that the connections between them are obvious. Making your response organized and clear by using a variety of suitable linking words can also help you highlight the logic in your reasoning.
Also read : IELTS test centers
FAQ
Get great articles direct to your inbox
The latest news, articles, and resources, sent straight to your inbox every month.
Popular Universities to Study Abroad
World class education waiting for you.
LCI Melbourne - Art and Design School
Victoria, Australia • 6 Programmes
Tuition Fee : AUD 31500-38000 / year
Northern Arizona University - Flagstaff Campus
Arizona, USA • 207 Programmes
Tuition Fee : USD 24000-26000 / year
Shorelight Group - Louisiana State University
Louisiana, USA • 623 Programmes
Tuition Fee : USD 29000-30000 / year
Study Group - Long Island University Post
New York, USA • 67 Programmes
Tuition Fee : USD 37000-38000 / year
Le Cordon Bleu - Melbourne Campus
Victoria, Australia • 11 Programmes
Tuition Fee : AUD 19500-20000 / year
Navitas Group - SAE Institute - Brisbane Campus
Queensland, Australia • 24 Programmes
Tuition Fee : AUD 27500-33000 / year
Popular English Language Proficiency Exams
IELTS Online
- Live Classes
Blogs and Articles
Curated content to keep you updated on the latest education trends, news and more.
Updated on • Apr 18,2024 10:55 AM IST • Study in Canada
Describe Your Hometown IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic
Updated on • Apr 15,2024 01:35 PM IST • IELTS
Timeline for USA Summer Intake: Deadlines & Universities Requirements
Updated on • Apr 13,2024 01:53 PM IST • USA
How can you Apply to University in Canada for Indian Students?
Updated on • Apr 13,2024 01:36 PM IST • Study in Canada • Colleges in Canada
Updated on • Apr 13,2024 01:04 PM IST • Study in Canada
PTE Score Chart 2024: PTE Exam Scoring System & Calculation
Updated on • Apr 13,2024 11:39 AM IST • PTE
Study in New Zealand without IELTS
Updated on • Apr 11,2024 05:36 PM IST • New Zealand
Tips to Write a Great GRE Analytical Essay
Updated on • Apr 11,2024 10:03 AM IST • Education
Top 5 Mistakes CELPIP Test Takers Make
Updated on • Apr 10,2024 05:38 PM IST • CELPIP
Study and Work in Australia: A Comprehensive Guide
Updated on • Apr 05,2024 12:59 PM IST • Australia
Updated on • Apr 04,2024 11:43 AM IST • IELTS
Crime & Punishment Essay IELTS
Updated on • Apr 02,2024 10:31 AM IST • IELTS
Believing These 8 Myths About IELTS Keeps You From Growing
Updated on • Apr 02,2024 09:49 AM IST • IELTS
20 Common IELTS Essay Topics for Writing Task 2
Updated on • Apr 01,2024 05:46 PM IST • IELTS
Updated on • Apr 01,2024 04:30 PM IST • Ireland
Updated on • Mar 29,2024 11:47 AM IST • Study in Canada
Guide to Student Housing in Nova Scotia
Updated on • Mar 29,2024 10:49 AM IST • Study in Canada
Masters in Geology in Canada: Colleges, Courses, and Fees
Updated on • Mar 28,2024 11:32 AM IST • Study in Canada
MBA in New Zealand: Universities, Eligibility, Types, Documents and Job Opportunities
Updated on • Mar 27,2024 05:13 PM IST • New Zealand
New Zealand IELTS Band Requirements
Updated on • Mar 20,2024 05:09 PM IST • New Zealand
Related Blogs and Articles
A little effort to provide an authentic and reliable content for keen readers!!
Describe Your Hometown IELTS Speaking Part 1 Topic
Updated on • 15-04-2024 • IELTS
Updated on • 04-04-2024 • IELTS
Crime & Punishment Essay IELTS
Updated on • 02-04-2024 • IELTS
Believing These 8 Myths About IELTS Keeps You From Growing
Updated on • 02-04-2024 • IELTS
20 Common IELTS Essay Topics for Writing Task 2
Updated on • 01-04-2024 • IELTS
Minimum IELTS Scores to Study in New Zealand Universities
Updated on • 08-03-2024 • IELTS
Describe a place you would like to visit - IELTS Cue Card
Updated on • 07-03-2024 • IELTS
PTE vs IELTS : Know the Difference and Which is Easier?
Updated on • 06-03-2024 • IELTS
Most Common IELTS Writing Topic
Updated on • 21-02-2024 • IELTS
What is a good score for IELTS?
Updated on • 20-02-2024 • IELTS
Describe a Live Sports Match That You Have Watched - IELTS CUE Card
Updated on • 17-02-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Shopping
Updated on • 07-02-2024 • IELTS
Updated on • 03-02-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Speaking Vocabulary- Travel and Tourism
Updated on • 02-02-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Speaking Vocabulary- Food and Nutrition
Updated on • 02-02-2024 • IELTS
Difference between IELTS and TOEFL
Updated on • 30-01-2024 • IELTS
Universities in Canada accepting IELTS 6 & 6.5 Band for Masters
Updated on • 20-01-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Reading Practice Tests 2024: Reading Passage and Sample Questions
Updated on • 13-01-2024 • IELTS
IELTS Letter Writing Topics 2024
Updated on • 13-01-2024 • IELTS
Canada IELTS band requirements 2024
Updated on • 12-01-2024 • IELTS