“Like” – a seemingly simple word that can trip up even the most confident English learners. While perfectly acceptable in casual conversation, overuse of “like” in the IELTS Speaking test can impact your fluency and vocabulary score. As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’m here to help you understand how to use “like” effectively – or even better, replace it with more sophisticated vocabulary – to achieve a higher band score.
Why is Using “Like” Correctly Important for IELTS Speaking?
The IELTS Speaking test assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. This includes your:
- Fluency and Coherence: Speaking smoothly and naturally without excessive hesitation or repetition.
- Lexical Resource: Using a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Using a variety of grammatical structures correctly.
- Pronunciation: Speaking clearly and understandably.
Overusing “like” can negatively impact your score in fluency and lexical resource. It can make your speech sound hesitant and your vocabulary appear limited.
How to Minimize “Like” for Better Fluency
Here are some strategies to reduce your reliance on “like” and enhance your IELTS Speaking performance:
1. Awareness is Key:
- Record yourself speaking: This is crucial to identify how often you use “like” unnecessarily. Pay attention to instances where it acts as a filler word rather than serving a grammatical purpose.
- Active listening: When exposed to native English, especially in movies or podcasts, focus on how speakers express themselves without relying heavily on “like.”
2. Alternatives to “Like”
- “Such as”: Use when providing examples. For example, “I enjoy outdoor activities, such as hiking and kayaking.”
- “For instance”: Similar to “such as,” offering specific examples. “Many historical figures inspire me, for instance, Nelson Mandela and Marie Curie.”
- “Similar to”: When drawing comparisons. “My hometown is quite similar to the place you described.”
- “About”: When approximating numbers or time. “The concert lasted for about two hours.”
- A brief pause: Instead of filling silence with “like,” embrace short pauses to gather your thoughts.
3. Contextual Awareness:
- Formal vs. Informal: Remember the IELTS Speaking test simulates a formal interaction. Be mindful of using “like” when describing personal experiences, as it can sound too informal.
- Filler words in general: “Like” is often used alongside other filler words like “um,” “ah,” and “you know.” Minimize these as well to maintain a natural flow.
IELTS Speaking Test Tips
Examples from Real IELTS Speaking Tests
Let’s analyze how replacing “like” can improve responses:
Example 1:
With “like”: “I’m like, really interested in photography, like I love taking pictures of nature and stuff.”
Improved: “I’m truly passionate about photography. I find capturing the beauty of nature through my lens particularly rewarding.”
Example 2:
With “like”: “My dream job is to be, like, a journalist, you know, like reporting on important events.”
Improved: “My aspiration is to become a journalist, where I can contribute to society by reporting on significant events.”
Achieving Fluency: Tips and Tricks
- Practice makes perfect: Regularly engage in English conversations with a focus on minimizing filler words.
- Expand your vocabulary: Actively learn synonyms and alternative expressions to use instead of “like.”
- Don’t be afraid to self-correct: If you catch yourself using “like” unnecessarily, rephrase your sentence. This demonstrates self-awareness and a commitment to clear communication.
Conclusion: Speak with Confidence on IELTS Day
By understanding the nuances of using “like” effectively, you can significantly enhance the fluency and clarity of your spoken English. Remember, achieving a high band score in IELTS Speaking is not about eliminating “like” entirely, but rather using it judiciously and replacing it with more sophisticated language when appropriate.
