The topic of receiving an unexpected compliment is a common theme in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in Part 2. It allows examiners to assess candidates’ ability to narrate personal experiences, express emotions, and use descriptive language. Understanding how to approach this topic can significantly boost your chances of achieving a high band score.

Describe a time when you received a compliment from someone is a topic that requires careful preparation and practice. Let’s break down the different parts of the IELTS Speaking test and explore how to tackle this subject effectively.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

While the main topic of unexpected compliments is likely to appear in Part 2, related questions might come up in Part 1. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

1. Do you often give compliments to others?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“I’d say I make a conscious effort to give compliments when they’re genuinely deserved. I believe that recognizing others’ achievements or positive qualities can really brighten someone’s day and foster good relationships. However, I’m also mindful not to overdo it, as I think excessive compliments can sometimes come across as insincere.”

2. How do you usually react when someone compliments you?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“To be honest, I often find myself feeling a bit flustered when I receive compliments, as I’m not always sure how to respond. However, I’ve learned that it’s important to graciously accept praise, so I typically smile and say thank you sincerely. If it’s appropriate, I might also reciprocate with a compliment or share credit if it’s related to a team effort. I think it’s crucial to strike a balance between modesty and appreciation in these situations.”

Part 2: Long Turn

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe a time when you received an unexpected compliment.
You should say:

• Who gave you the compliment
• What the compliment was about
• When and where it happened
• And explain why the compliment was unexpected and how you felt about it

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“I’d like to talk about an unexpected compliment I received from my university professor last year. It was during a seminar on environmental policy, which is a subject I’m particularly passionate about.

The compliment came from Dr. Thompson, my Environmental Studies professor, who’s renowned for her expertise in the field. She praised my in-depth analysis of a complex case study we were discussing in class. Specifically, she commended my ability to draw connections between various environmental policies and their real-world implications.

This occurred towards the end of the seminar, which was held in one of the smaller lecture halls on campus. As students were packing up to leave, Dr. Thompson approached me and said, “Your insights today were remarkably perceptive. You have a real talent for policy analysis.”

The compliment caught me completely off guard for several reasons. Firstly, Dr. Thompson is known for her high standards and rarely gives such effusive praise. Secondly, while I had prepared thoroughly for the seminar, I hadn’t realized that my contributions stood out so significantly. Lastly, as a somewhat introverted person, I tend to downplay my abilities, so receiving such positive feedback was unexpected.

Initially, I felt a mix of surprise and elation. It was immensely gratifying to have my hard work and passion for the subject recognized by someone I deeply respect in the field. The compliment also gave me a significant boost in confidence, encouraging me to participate more actively in future discussions.

In retrospect, this unexpected compliment served as a pivotal moment in my academic journey. It reinforced my enthusiasm for environmental studies and motivated me to delve even deeper into the subject. Moreover, it taught me the importance of self-belief and the positive impact that thoughtful praise can have on someone’s personal and professional development.”

Unexpected compliment from university professor

Follow-up questions:

1. How did this experience change your perception of compliments?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“This experience significantly altered my view on compliments. I realized that sincere praise can have a profound impact on someone’s confidence and motivation. It made me more appreciative of the compliments I receive and more mindful about giving genuine compliments to others when they deserve it.”

2. Do you think people in your country give compliments easily?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my observation, the tendency to give compliments varies widely in my country. In professional settings, people tend to be more reserved with praise, often adhering to a culture of modesty and understatement. However, in personal relationships, especially among younger generations, there’s a growing trend of being more expressive and generous with compliments. This shift is partly influenced by global communication and social media, where positive affirmation is more common. That said, there’s still a cultural emphasis on sincerity, so people generally avoid giving compliments that might be perceived as superficial or insincere.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

Examiner: Let’s talk more about compliments in society. Do you think there’s a difference in how men and women give and receive compliments?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“That’s an intriguing question, and I believe there are indeed some notable differences in how men and women typically approach compliments, though it’s important to note that these are generalizations and individual behaviors can vary significantly.

From my observation and based on some social studies I’ve read, women tend to exchange compliments more frequently, especially with other women. These compliments often focus on appearance, fashion choices, or personal achievements. Women are also generally more expressive in their compliments, using more emotive language and enthusiastic tones.

Men, on the other hand, might be more reserved in giving compliments, particularly to other men. When they do offer praise, it’s often related to skills, accomplishments, or possessions rather than personal attributes. The language used is typically more understated and matter-of-fact.

In terms of receiving compliments, women are often socialized to be modest and may downplay compliments, while men might be more likely to accept them straightforwardly or even expand on them.

However, it’s crucial to recognize that these patterns are heavily influenced by cultural norms and are evolving with changing societal attitudes. In more progressive environments, these gender-based differences in compliment behavior are becoming less pronounced.

Moreover, the context of the compliment – whether it’s in a professional setting, among friends, or in a romantic situation – can significantly alter these dynamics. In professional contexts, for instance, there’s a growing awareness of the need for gender-neutral approaches to praise and recognition.

Ultimately, I believe that effective communication and emotional intelligence are more important factors in giving and receiving compliments than gender alone. The key is to be sincere, appropriate, and mindful of the individual and the situation when offering praise.”

Gender differences in giving compliments

Examiner: How do you think social media has affected the way people give and receive compliments?

Sample answer (Band 7-8):
“Social media has undoubtedly had a significant impact on compliment culture. On platforms like Instagram and Facebook, giving compliments has become much more casual and frequent. People often leave positive comments on photos or posts, which can range from quick emoji reactions to more detailed praise.

This increased exposure to compliments has both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, it’s created more opportunities for people to uplift and encourage each other. Many users report feeling a boost in self-esteem from receiving likes and complimentary comments.

However, there are also drawbacks. The ease of giving compliments online can sometimes make them feel less meaningful or sincere. There’s also a risk of people becoming overly dependent on external validation from social media likes and comments.

Moreover, the public nature of social media compliments has introduced new dynamics. People might give compliments to gain social currency or reciprocal praise rather than out of genuine admiration.

In my opinion, while social media has made compliments more accessible, it’s important to maintain a balance. We should appreciate online praise but not let it overshadow the value of face-to-face compliments and genuine, personal interactions.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

1. Flustered /ˈflʌstəd/ (adjective): Agitated or confused.
   Example: “I felt flustered when my boss suddenly praised my work in front of the entire team.”

2. Effusive /ɪˈfjuːsɪv/ (adjective): Expressing feelings of gratitude, pleasure, or approval in an unrestrained or heartfelt manner.
   Example: “Her effusive praise made me feel both embarrassed and proud.”

3. Perceptive /pəˈseptɪv/ (adjective): Having or showing sensitive insight.
   Example: “His perceptive comments on the artwork demonstrated his deep understanding of the subject.”

4. Elation /ɪˈleɪʃn/ (noun): Great happiness and exhilaration.
   Example: “I felt a sense of elation when I received the unexpected compliment from my mentor.”

5. Pivotal /ˈpɪvətl/ (adjective): Of crucial importance in relation to the development or success of something else.
   Example: “That unexpected compliment became a pivotal moment in my career, boosting my confidence significantly.”

6. To downplay /daʊnˈpleɪ/ (verb): To minimize the significance of; play down.
   Example: “He tends to downplay his achievements, always attributing his success to teamwork.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when discussing unexpected compliments:

1. Practice narrating personal experiences: This will help you speak more fluently and naturally about real-life situations.

2. Expand your vocabulary: Focus on learning and using descriptive adjectives and idiomatic expressions related to emotions and interactions.

3. Work on your pronunciation and intonation: Clear pronunciation and appropriate intonation can make your speech more engaging and easier to understand.

4. Develop your ideas: Don’t just state facts; explain your thoughts and feelings in detail.

5. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Incorporate complex sentences and different tenses to demonstrate your language proficiency.

6. Stay on topic: Ensure your answers are relevant to the question asked.

7. Be authentic: While it’s good to prepare, avoid memorizing answers. Examiners appreciate genuine responses.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking is not just about perfect English, but about communicating effectively and confidently. Regular practice and exposure to English in various contexts will help you achieve this goal.