“No matter what” is a powerful phrase that demonstrates determination and perseverance. It’s a useful tool to express unwavering commitment in both spoken and written English. Mastering its usage can significantly enhance your IELTS score by adding sophistication and naturalness to your language.

Let’s examine a few examples of how “no matter what” is employed across different sections of the IELTS exam:

• Speaking (Part 3): “No matter what challenges life throws my way, I always strive to maintain a positive outlook.” (This demonstrates your ability to express abstract ideas and personal values.)
• Writing (Task 2): “Some argue that traditional values are irrelevant in modern society. However, I believe that respect and empathy remain crucial, no matter what cultural background we come from.” (This showcases your capacity to present a balanced argument and connect ideas cohesively.)
• Listening (Section 4): You might hear a lecturer say, “No matter what field you choose to specialize in, a strong work ethic is essential for success.” (Understanding this phrase in context is key to comprehending the main ideas.)

Understanding “No Matter What” in IELTS

The phrase “no matter what” acts as a conjunction, connecting two clauses and conveying the idea that the main clause remains true regardless of any circumstances or conditions stated in the other clause. It signifies a sense of unwavering determination or inevitability.

While “no matter what” doesn’t frequently appear in the IELTS exam itself, understanding its usage and meaning is beneficial for demonstrating a wider range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. It helps showcase your ability to express nuanced ideas and strengthens your overall language proficiency, which is assessed across all sections of the IELTS.

Structure and Usage

The typical structure of a sentence using “no matter what” is as follows:

[Main Clause] + no matter what + [Subordinate Clause]

Let’s break down the components:

• Main Clause: This part of the sentence expresses the main idea or action that holds true regardless of the circumstances.
• Subordinate Clause: This part introduces the condition or circumstance that doesn’t affect the truth of the main clause. It often includes “wh-” words like “what,” “who,” “where,” “when,” “why,” or “how.”

Here’s a simple example:

I will finish this project, no matter what.

• Main Clause: “I will finish this project”
• Subordinate Clause (implied): “…no matter what happens”

Example of

Applying “No Matter What” in IELTS

Writing (Task 2)

“No matter what” can be highly effective in IELTS Writing Task 2 to strengthen your arguments and express contrasting viewpoints.

Example:

“Some people believe that economic progress should be prioritized over environmental protection. However, I firmly believe that we must safeguard our planet for future generations, no matter what the economic cost.”

Analysis: This sentence effectively contrasts two opposing views. The use of “no matter what” emphasizes the writer’s firm stance on environmental protection, regardless of potential economic implications.

Speaking (Part 3)

Using “no matter what” in the IELTS Speaking test, especially Part 3, can showcase your ability to articulate your thoughts and opinions on more abstract topics.

Example:

Examiner: “Do you think it’s important for people to travel to different countries?”

Candidate: “Absolutely. I believe that experiencing different cultures broadens our horizons and fosters understanding and tolerance, no matter what our background is.”

Analysis: The candidate uses “no matter what” to express a strong belief that cultural exchange is beneficial for everyone, regardless of their origin or upbringing. This demonstrates a good command of language and the ability to express opinions effectively.

Achieving a Higher Band Score

To score higher in IELTS, consider these tips when using “no matter what”:

• Variety and Accuracy: Don’t overuse the phrase. Instead, use it strategically to emphasize key points and demonstrate your range of vocabulary. Ensure grammatical accuracy in its usage.
• Formal Tone: While acceptable in spoken English, “no matter what” might be slightly informal for academic writing. Consider alternatives like “regardless of” or “irrespective of” to maintain a formal tone where appropriate.
• Contextual Appropriateness: Always consider the context and ensure the phrase fits naturally within your sentence and the overall message you want to convey.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect Word Order: Ensure the correct word order as explained in the “Structure and Usage” section. Don’t place “no matter what” at the beginning of the sentence when it’s connecting a main clause and a subordinate clause.
• Overuse: Using “no matter what” repeatedly can make your language sound repetitive. Use it selectively for emphasis.
• Informal Context: Be mindful of the context. While appropriate for speaking and informal writing, it might not be suitable for all academic writing situations.

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “no matter what” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. By understanding its structure, meaning, and appropriate usage, you can express yourself more powerfully and confidently. Remember to use it judiciously, alongside other grammatical structures and vocabulary, to showcase your language proficiency fully. For further exploration of similar grammatical structures and their applications in IELTS, you can refer to this insightful article on the use of “no matter” and “no matter what happens” in different contexts. Keep practicing, and your efforts will undoubtedly lead you to IELTS success!