Many IELTS students find themselves reaching for sophisticated vocabulary to boost their scores. While this can be beneficial, it’s equally important to master the nuances of common phrases that appear frequently in academic and conversational English. One such phrase is “as expressed by,” often used to cite opinions and ideas. This article will delve into its meaning, usage, and how it can be effectively incorporated into your IELTS writing and speaking to achieve a band 7 or higher.
Let’s look at some examples:
- Speaking: “The impact of social media on mental health is a complex issue, as expressed by many psychologists.”
- Writing Task 2: “Some argue that globalization leads to cultural homogenization, as expressed by the concerns over the dominance of Western media.”
- Listening: You might hear a speaker say, “The author’s skepticism about artificial intelligence is evident, as expressed by his frequent use of cautionary tales.”
In each of these examples, “as expressed by” helps to introduce the source of an opinion or idea, adding credibility and a layer of academic formality to your language.
Understanding “As Expressed By”
“As expressed by” signals that you’re about to introduce an idea or opinion originating from someone else. It’s a way of attributing a perspective without directly quoting the source. The phrase is particularly useful in academic writing and speaking, where acknowledging sources is crucial.
Using “As Expressed By” in IELTS
Meaning and Frequency
“As expressed by” falls under the category of reporting verbs, which are essential for paraphrasing and referencing in the IELTS exam. While not as common as verbs like “suggest,” “argue,” or “state,” “as expressed by” offers a formal tone and is often found in academic texts used in the IELTS Reading and Listening sections.
Grammatical Structure and Analysis
[Idea or opinion] + as expressed by + [Source]
- Idea or opinion: This is the statement or viewpoint you are attributing to someone else.
- As expressed by: This phrase acts as the connector, signaling attribution.
- Source: This refers to the person, group, or entity whose opinion is being cited.
For example, in the sentence “The need for stricter environmental regulations is paramount, as expressed by many scientists,” the idea is “the need for stricter regulations” and the source is “many scientists.”
Applying “As Expressed By” to IELTS Tasks
Writing Task 2: When presenting viewpoints or counter-arguments, “as expressed by” helps you incorporate expert opinions convincingly. For instance:
- “While some believe that technology fosters isolation, as expressed by Professor X in his study on social interactions, others argue that it bridges geographical distances.”
Speaking Part 3: During the discussion phase, you can use “as expressed by” to reference studies, articles, or expert opinions you’ve come across:
- “Well, as expressed by leading economists, the long-term effects of automation on the job market are yet to be fully understood.”
Achieving a Higher Band Score
- Vary Your Language: While “as expressed by” is useful, use synonyms like “as stated by,” “as argued by,” or “according to” to demonstrate vocabulary range.
- Provide Context: Don’t just drop names or sources; briefly explain their relevance. For example, “Professor Y, a renowned sociologist specializing in urban development, argues…”
- Paraphrase Effectively: Don’t merely repeat the source’s words verbatim after “as expressed by.” Rephrase the idea in your own words to demonstrate understanding.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect Prepositions: Avoid using prepositions other than “by” after “as expressed.”
- Lack of Clarity: Ensure the source of the opinion is clearly stated.
- Overuse: Don’t use “as expressed by” excessively; vary your language for better flow and sophistication.
Conclusion
Mastering phrases like “as expressed by” can significantly enhance your ability to present ideas effectively and cite sources convincingly in the IELTS exam. Remember to practice using this phrase in various contexts to integrate it naturally into your speaking and writing. By paying attention to these details and employing a variety of sophisticated vocabulary and grammatical structures, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired IELTS score.