Common Paraphrasing Techniques in IELTS Writing Task 2

Paraphrasing is always an essential skill in the IELTS exam, particularly in the Writing and Speaking sections. This skill helps evaluators assess your vocabulary and language flexibility. This article will introduce you to some paraphrasing methods and common expressions in the IELTS Writing Task 2.

Understanding Paraphrasing Skills:

“Paraphrasing” is the ability to rewrite a phrase or a sentence using your own vocabulary and expression style while maintaining equivalent meaning. This skill is highly valued as it enriches your writing and impresses evaluators, avoiding repetition in your essay.

For IELTS Writing Task 2, the introduction requires candidates to present the essay topic and express personal opinions. Reaffirming your standpoint in the conclusion also demands mastery of paraphrasing to demonstrate language proficiency.

Paraphrasing Techniques in Writing Task 2:

1. Paraphrasing with Synonyms:

Using synonymous words involves rewriting a sentence by replacing words with equivalent meanings. Utilizing synonyms and antonyms helps avoid repetition without sacrificing coherence between sentences. Remember that paraphrasing doesn’t require changing all words; replacing one or a few is often sufficient.

• Example 1:
  – Original Sentence: Eating vegetables is good for our health.
  – Paraphrased Sentence: Eating vegetables is beneficial to our health.

• Example 2:
  – Original Sentence: Many people think that cars should not be allowed in city centres.
  – Paraphrased Sentence: Many people believe that motor vehicles should be banned in urban areas.

2. Paraphrasing by Changing Word Form:

Instead of opting for entirely different and advanced words, you can use words from the same family. For instance, using a verb in one sentence and its corresponding noun form in the next.

Example:
– Original Sentence: Some people think that all people are responsible for protecting the environment.
– Paraphrased Sentence: Some people think that environmental protection is the responsibility of all people.

3. Paraphrasing by Changing Sentence Structure:

If you have limited vocabulary or find it challenging to use synonyms, altering sentence structure is a straightforward and effective method, provided you maintain correct grammar.

i. Changing from Active to Passive Voice:

• Original Sentence: The city council developed the public transport system.
• Paraphrased Sentence: The public transport system was developed by the city council.

ii. Using Dummy Subjects (e.g., “It”):

In English, one of the most commonly used types of dummy subjects is ‘There’ and ‘It.’ They are called so because they do not refer to a specific object but serve a grammatical function as placeholders for the subject in a sentence. In this context, ‘It’ is considered a dummy subject. The use of the dummy subject ‘It’ is also seen as a form of paraphrasing.

• Original Sentence: Playing tennis is fun.
• Paraphrased Sentence: It is fun to play tennis.

iii. Combining Multiple Techniques:

To have a clearer understanding, individual examples have been illustrated for each paraphrasing method mentioned above. You can further enhance comprehension by paraphrasing through the combination of multiple paraphrasing techniques, such as synonyms, changing word forms, or altering sentence structures.

Example:

• Original Sentence: Some people think that the government should ban dangerous sports.

• Paraphrased Sentences: A number of people believe that dangerous sports should be forbidden by the authorities. (Synonyms + Passive Voice)

• It is believed that a ban on dangerous sports should be imposed by the authorities. (Synonyms + Word Form + Dummy Subject + Passive Voice)

Paraphrasing Phrases for Typical IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Types:

a. Opinion Essays:
Personally,
In my opinion,
From my point of view,
I think/believe that…
I would argue that…
I hold the view that…
I side with the view that…

b. Advantages and Disadvantages Essays:

To gain/derive/get/obtain/enjoy benefits
To benefit greatly/enormously/considerably…from something
To meet/satisfy the need/demand for sth
To have difficulty/trouble/problems + Ving/in Ving
To struggle to V
To have negative effects/detrimental impacts on something

c. Problems – Causes – Solutions Essays:

To address/tackle/solve the problem…
A result(s) in/lead(s) to/bring(s) about B
A is often associated with B
A makes a significant/substantial/valuable/great contribution to B
A has/exerts an effect/impact/influence on B

In addition to the Writing section, paraphrasing skills are crucial in other test sections, including Speaking, Listening, and Reading. It is evident that paraphrasing is a highly useful skill that allows you to express your vocabulary effectively and can significantly improve your test scores.

Preparing for the IELTS Writing exam with Essay King:

Devoting time to prepare for the IELTS Writing section early on is crucial for success, especially when honing your paraphrasing skills.

There are various paraphrasing methods, and combining them will ensure the fluidity of your essay. Early preparation will help you become familiar with the test structure, build confidence on the exam day, and achieve the desired score.

Don’t forget to explore Essay King’s available IELTS resources for better preparation.