As an aspiring IELTS achiever aiming for band 7 or higher, you understand the importance of sophisticated grammar. One phrase that often trips up test-takers is “owing to,” used to express cause or reason. While seemingly simple, its usage requires nuance and precision. This guide delves into the intricacies of “owing to,” equipping you with the knowledge and examples to wield it confidently in your IELTS exam.
Let’s start by analyzing how “owing to” functions within a sentence:
Example 1 (Writing Task 2):
Owing to the increasing demand for oil, many countries are investing heavily in renewable energy sources.
Here, “owing to” directly links the cause (“increasing demand for oil”) with the effect (“investing heavily in renewable energy sources”).
Example 2 (Speaking Part 3):
Well, I believe the shift towards online shopping is largely owing to its convenience and wider selection.
In this spoken response, “owing to” explains the reason behind the “shift towards online shopping.”
Example 3 (Listening Section):
The professor postponed the lecture owing to unforeseen circumstances.
This example demonstrates how “owing to” clarifies the cause of the postponed lecture.
Understanding “Owing to” in IELTS
“Owing to” signifies “because of” or “due to.” It excels in formal writing, making it particularly relevant for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays and reports. However, it can also be incorporated naturally in Speaking Part 3 to demonstrate a strong lexical range.
Using “Owing to” Effectively
Formula:
[Situation/Outcome] + is/was/will be + owing to + [Cause/Reason]
Analysis:
- Situation/Outcome: Clearly state the situation or result affected by the cause.
- is/was/will be: Choose the appropriate tense based on the context.
- Cause/Reason: Specify the factor leading to the stated situation.
Public Transportation vs Road Infrastructure
Application in IELTS
Writing Task 2:
Prompt: Some people believe that the government should invest more money in public transportation, while others think that it is better to invest in road infrastructure. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Sample Response:
While improvements to road infrastructure are undoubtedly beneficial, I firmly believe that prioritizing public transportation deserves greater governmental financial support. This stance is owing to the myriad environmental and social advantages offered by efficient public transport systems.
Speaking Part 3:
Examiner: What are the main reasons behind the increasing popularity of e-books?
Candidate: Well, I’d say the rising popularity of e-books is largely owing to their affordability and portability. They’re generally cheaper than physical books, and you can carry thousands on a single device.
Elevating Your Score
To achieve a higher band score, consider these tips:
- Varied Usage: Don’t overuse “owing to.” Employ synonyms like “due to,” “because of,” “as a result of,” or “on account of” to showcase vocabulary range.
- Formal Tone: Remember that “owing to” is more formal. Use it judiciously in Speaking, reserving it for Part 3 where a more analytical tone is expected.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
Incorrect: The company’s success owing to its innovative marketing strategy.
Correct: The company’s success was owing to its innovative marketing strategy.
Analysis: Ensure subject-verb agreement. In most cases, “owing to” will be part of a phrase that modifies the subject and requires a verb to complete the sentence.
Conclusion
Mastering “owing to” empowers you to express cause and effect with sophistication and clarity. By understanding its usage, practicing its application, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently incorporate this phrase into your IELTS responses, boosting your vocabulary score and overall performance. Remember to review authentic IELTS materials and practice regularly to solidify your understanding. Good luck!
