“With regard to” is a formal phrase often used in academic writing and IELTS to introduce a specific topic or point of discussion. Understanding its usage and synonyms can significantly enhance your lexical resource score and overall writing clarity.

Let’s see some examples of how “with regard to” can be used in different sections of the IELTS exam:

Writing Task 2:

• “With regard to the issue of climate change, governments need to implement stricter regulations on industrial emissions.” (Here, the phrase introduces the main topic of the essay, which is climate change.)

Speaking Part 3:

• “Well, with regard to the benefits of technology, I believe…” (This phrase helps to transition smoothly into a discussion about the advantages of technology.)

Listening:

• You might hear a speaker say, “With regard to the upcoming conference, we still need to finalize the list of speakers.” (This signals that the speaker is about to provide information specifically related to the conference.)

Understanding “With Regard To” in IELTS

In the realm of IELTS, “with regard to” acts as a signal phrase, guiding the reader or listener towards a particular aspect of the topic being discussed. Its formal tone makes it especially suitable for Writing Task 2 essays and Speaking Part 3 discussions where a higher level of vocabulary is expected.

However, constantly using the same phrase can sound repetitive. Luckily, several synonyms and alternative expressions can be employed to maintain a natural and engaging flow in your language.

Formal Letter Regarding IELTS Exam

“With Regard To”: Grammar & Application

Formula:

With regard to + [Noun Phrase] + [Comma] + [Subject] + [Verb] + [Object]

Example:

With regard to the recent technological advancements, governments need to establish ethical guidelines for their use.

Breaking it down:

• “With regard to” introduces the topic: Recent technological advancements.
• The rest of the sentence elaborates on the actions needed in light of these advancements.

Application:

• Writing Task 2: Introduce a new paragraph discussing a specific aspect of the essay topic.
• Speaking Part 3: Transition smoothly to a new point within a broader discussion.
• Listening: Pay close attention when you hear this phrase as it highlights important information about the topic being discussed.

Synonyms and Alternatives for “With Regard To”

1. Regarding

Example: “Regarding the upcoming elections, the public seems to be increasingly disengaged.”

Analysis: “Regarding” serves the same function as “with regard to,” introducing the topic of the elections.

2. Concerning

Example: “Concerning the environmental impact of tourism, several measures have been proposed to mitigate the damage.”

Analysis: This phrase provides a more formal tone and is suitable for discussing serious topics.

3. In relation to

Example: “In relation to the study’s findings, further research is needed to confirm the initial results.”

Analysis: “In relation to” is commonly used in academic writing to connect ideas and present findings.

4. As for

Example: “As for the economic forecast, experts predict a period of slow growth.”

Analysis: This phrase offers a slightly less formal option while still maintaining a clear and concise tone.

You can find more examples and tips on using “as regards” for topic introduction on websites like ielts.net.

Achieving Higher Band Scores:

• Varied Vocabulary: Avoid repetition by alternating between “with regard to” and its synonyms.
• Contextual Accuracy: Choose the most appropriate phrase depending on the formality of the situation and the specific nuance you want to convey.
• Cohesion & Coherence: Use these phrases effectively to link ideas together, ensuring a smooth flow of information within and between sentences and paragraphs.

Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

1. Incorrect Preposition:

• Incorrect: With regards to the new policy…
• Correct: With regard to the new policy…
  (Remember, the correct preposition is “to,” not “s.”)

2. Informal Usage:

• Informal: So, about the upcoming event…
• Formal: With regard to the upcoming event…
  (Use “with regard to” in formal writing and speaking situations.)

3. Redundancy:

• Redundant: With regard to the issue of climate change, the issue is becoming increasingly urgent.
• Concise: With regard to climate change, the situation is becoming increasingly urgent.
  (Avoid repeating the same noun phrase unnecessarily.)

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “with regard to” and its synonyms is crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS. By understanding the grammatical structure, practicing its application, and incorporating a range of synonyms, you can confidently express your ideas with clarity, precision, and sophistication. Remember to refer to reputable IELTS resources like those on ielts.net for more insights and practice materials.