The phrase “Be Devoted To + Noun/gerund” is a powerful expression that can significantly enhance your IELTS score when used correctly. This structure is particularly useful in the Writing and Speaking sections, where it can demonstrate your ability to express dedication and commitment. Let’s explore how to master this phrase and apply it effectively in your IELTS exam.
Understanding “Be Devoted to + Noun/Gerund”
The expression “be devoted to” means to be completely committed or dedicated to something or someone. It’s a strong way to express passion, loyalty, or intense focus on a particular subject or activity. In IELTS, using this phrase can help you articulate your interests, career goals, or personal values with precision and impact.
Examples:
- She is devoted to her family. (noun)
- He is devoted to studying ancient civilizations. (gerund)
- The organization is devoted to protecting endangered species. (gerund)
- They are devoted to their cultural heritage. (noun)
- I am devoted to improving healthcare in rural areas. (gerund)
Devoted to Phrase
Grammar and Usage
Formula and Structure
The basic structure is:
[Subject] + [be] + devoted to + [noun/gerund]
- The verb “be” should agree with the subject in number and tense.
- After “devoted to,” you can use either a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing form functioning as a noun).
Application in IELTS Sections
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IELTS Writing Task 2
In essays, this phrase can be used to express strong opinions or describe personal or societal commitments.
Example: “Many people argue that governments should be devoted to promoting environmental sustainability rather than economic growth.”
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IELTS Speaking Part 2
When describing a person you admire or a hobby you enjoy, this phrase can add depth to your description.
Example: “My grandfather has always been devoted to gardening. He spends hours tending to his plants and sharing his knowledge with others.”
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IELTS Writing Task 1
While less common in Task 1, it can be used in certain contexts, especially in general training letters.
Example: “Our company is devoted to providing excellent customer service, which is why we are writing to address your concerns.”
Sample Answers and Analysis
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample
Topic: Some people believe that hobbies need to be difficult to be enjoyable, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Sample paragraph:
“On the other hand, many individuals find joy in hobbies that are not necessarily challenging. These people are often devoted to activities that provide relaxation and stress relief. For instance, someone might be devoted to gardening, finding peace in nurturing plants and enjoying the simple beauty of nature. This devotion doesn’t stem from the activity’s difficulty but from the pleasure and fulfillment it brings.”
Analysis: The use of “be devoted to” here emphasizes the deep commitment and enjoyment people find in their hobbies, regardless of difficulty. It helps to convey the idea that dedication to an activity can come from various sources, not just challenge.
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Sample
Question: Do you think it’s important for people to have hobbies?
Sample answer:
“Absolutely. I believe it’s crucial for people to have hobbies they’re devoted to. Being devoted to a hobby can provide numerous benefits. Firstly, it offers a way to relieve stress and find joy outside of work or study. For example, someone devoted to painting might find it a therapeutic escape from daily pressures. Additionally, being devoted to a hobby can help develop valuable skills and even lead to new career opportunities. I know people who were so devoted to their hobbies, like photography or coding, that they eventually turned them into successful careers.”
Analysis: The repeated use of “be devoted to” in this response emphasizes the speaker’s strong belief in the importance of hobbies. It also demonstrates the ability to use the phrase flexibly with different subjects and in various contexts, which can impress IELTS examiners.
Achieving Higher Band Scores
To achieve higher band scores (7+) in IELTS, it’s important to use phrases like “be devoted to” accurately and with some sophistication. Here are some tips:
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Varied usage: Don’t just stick to “I am devoted to.” Use it with different subjects and in different tenses.
Example: “Scientists have long been devoted to finding a cure for cancer.”
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Combine with advanced vocabulary: Pair the phrase with less common words to showcase your lexical resource.
Example: “The philanthropist was fervently devoted to ameliorating the lives of underprivileged children.”
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Use in complex sentences: Incorporate the phrase into compound or complex sentences to demonstrate advanced grammar skills.
Example: “Although she was initially skeptical, after witnessing the positive impact, she became devoted to promoting sustainable farming practices in her community.”
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Apply to abstract concepts: Show depth of thought by using the phrase with abstract ideas.
Example: “Many philosophers are devoted to exploring the nature of consciousness and its implications for human experience.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Incorrect preposition: Don’t use “of” or “for” instead of “to.”
❌ “She is devoted of her work.”
✅ “She is devoted to her work.” -
Using an adjective instead of a gerund or noun:
❌ “They are devoted to successful in their careers.”
✅ “They are devoted to succeeding in their careers.” -
Overuse: While it’s a valuable phrase, using it too frequently can make your speech or writing sound repetitive.
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Inappropriate context: Be mindful of using it in formal academic writing where more neutral language might be preferred.
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Forgetting to change the verb form: Remember to adjust “be” according to the subject and tense.
❌ “He be devoted to his studies.”
✅ “He is devoted to his studies.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “be devoted to + noun/gerund” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance, particularly in Writing and Speaking tasks. This phrase allows you to express commitment and passion effectively, which can be applied to various topics from personal interests to global issues. Remember to use it accurately, in diverse contexts, and in combination with other advanced language features to maximize its impact on your IELTS score.
To further improve your skills, practice using this phrase in sample IELTS questions about career goals, environmental issues, or describing influential people in your life. By incorporating “be devoted to” naturally into your language repertoire, you’ll be well-equipped to express dedication and commitment in your IELTS exam and beyond.
