The phrase “As Described By” might seem simple at first glance, but its strategic use can significantly enhance your IELTS writing and speaking scores. It allows you to seamlessly integrate sources, evidence, and opinions into your arguments, showcasing a sophisticated command of English. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of “as described by,” explore its synonyms, and equip you with the tools to wield it effectively across different sections of the IELTS exam.
Understanding “As Described By”
“As described by” is a prepositional phrase that attributes a description or opinion to a specific source. It is often used to cite authors, researchers, experts, or even individuals mentioned in the IELTS material itself.
Let’s illustrate its application with a few examples:
- Writing Task 2: “The detrimental effects of plastic pollution, as described by leading marine biologists, are far-reaching and demand immediate action.”
- Speaking Part 3: “Well, as described by many sociologists, social media has revolutionized the way we interact.”
- Listening Section: “The historian, as described by the professor, challenged conventional interpretations of the event.”
In each of these examples, “as described by” elegantly connects a description or viewpoint to its source, adding credibility and depth to the statement.
“As Described By” and Its Synonyms: Exploring the Nuances
While “as described by” is a versatile phrase, understanding its synonyms can further diversify your language and refine your meaning. Here’s a breakdown:
1. According to
This is perhaps the most common synonym and is generally interchangeable with “as described by.” It indicates that the information originates from a particular source.
- Example: “According to the World Health Organization, obesity rates have tripled since 1975.”
2. In the words of
This phrase emphasizes the exact language used by the source, often conveying a quote or a particularly memorable statement.
- Example: “In the words of Nelson Mandela, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'”
3. As noted by
This phrase emphasizes an observation or finding made by the source.
- Example: “As noted by Professor Jones, the study’s results were inconclusive.”
4. As put forward by/ As proposed by
These phrases are often used in academic contexts to refer to theories, arguments, or suggestions presented by someone.
- Example: “As put forward by Dr. Smith, early intervention is crucial in addressing learning disabilities.”
Using Synonyms Effectively:
- Formal Tone: “According to,” “as noted by,” and “as put forward by” are generally more formal than “as described by.”
- Direct Quotes: “In the words of” is ideal when incorporating direct quotations.
- Emphasis on Observation: “As noted by” emphasizes an observation or point made by the source.
By understanding these subtle differences, you can choose the most appropriate phrase to suit your context and achieve greater precision in your language.
ielts-band-score|IELTS Band Score|An infographic showing the band score of the IELTS test
Mastering “As Described By” for a Higher Band Score
1. Provide Context: Don’t just drop in the phrase. Introduce the source briefly before using “as described by.”
- Example: “Renowned psychologist, Dr. Brené Brown, argues for the importance of vulnerability. As described by Brown, vulnerability is not weakness but rather the birthplace of creativity and connection.”
2. Vary Your Language: Use synonyms to demonstrate a wider vocabulary range.
- Example: “The report, as cited by the United Nations, highlights the urgent need for climate action.”
3. Integrate Smoothly: Ensure that the phrase flows naturally within your sentence.
- Example: “The artist’s unique style, as described by the art critic, reflects the social upheavals of his time.”
4. Be Specific: Whenever possible, go beyond general references. Name the specific source (author, researcher, organization) to strengthen your argument.
Example: Instead of “As described by experts,” write “As described by linguist Noam Chomsky…”
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect Prepositions: Using prepositions other than “by” after “described.” Remember, it’s “as described by,” not “as described in,” “as described from,” etc.
- Lack of Clarity: Failing to clearly identify the source being referred to.
- Overuse: Using the phrase repeatedly in a short span of text. Vary your language!
By avoiding these pitfalls and following the tips above, you can confidently use “as described by” and its synonyms to enrich your IELTS responses and impress the examiner.
