“As seen by” is a phrase that often trips up IELTS candidates, despite its seemingly simple structure. It’s a powerful tool for expressing perspectives and adding sophistication to your writing and speaking. This article will delve into the nuances of “as seen by” and equip you with the knowledge to use it effectively in your IELTS exam.
Let’s consider these examples:
- “The economic crisis, as seen by many experts, is far from over.” (This sentence highlights the perspective of experts on the economic situation.)
- “Animal Farm, as seen by the eyes of the pigs, is a utopia.” (This example explores the subjective viewpoint of the pigs within the context of the novel.)
- “Climate change, as seen by future generations, might be an insurmountable challenge.” (Here, the focus shifts to the potential viewpoint of future generations on climate change.)
As evident in these examples, “as seen by” introduces a specific perspective or point of view, adding depth and complexity to your sentences.
Deconstructing “As Seen By”
Meaning and Significance in IELTS
“As seen by” is a prepositional phrase that signifies perspective. It’s like saying “from the point of view of” or “according to the perception of.” Utilizing this phrase demonstrates your grasp of nuanced language and ability to present information from various angles, both crucial for achieving a high IELTS band score.
While “as seen by” might not be a phrase you use daily, understanding its meaning and application can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. It allows you to:
- Present different sides of an argument: This is particularly useful in essay writing where you need to acknowledge various viewpoints.
- Analyze information critically: By attributing viewpoints, you showcase your analytical skills.
- Express opinions indirectly: You can present an opinion without directly stating it as your own.
Grammatical Structure and Application
The phrase typically follows this structure:
[Subject] + [verb] + [object] + as seen by + [perspective/person/group].
Examples:
- The painting, widely admired for its beauty, was seen by the artist as a failure. (This sentence analyzes how the artist, despite the painting’s popularity, perceived it as unsuccessful.)
- The new policy, as seen by environmental groups, is a step backwards. (Here, the sentence presents the perspective of environmental groups on the new policy.)
IELTS Exam Preparation
Mastering “As Seen By” for IELTS Success
Writing
- Task 1 (Academic): While less common in Task 1, you can use “as seen by” when describing trends or changes from a specific perspective. For example, “The decline in manufacturing jobs, as seen by some economists, is a result of automation.”
- Task 2: “As seen by” is particularly valuable in opinion and discussion essays. For instance: “Some argue that globalization benefits everyone, while others, as seen by critics of free trade, believe it exacerbates inequality.”
Speaking
- Part 3: You can use “as seen by” to discuss different perspectives on societal issues. For example: “Well, the impact of social media is quite complex. As seen by some, it’s a fantastic tool for connecting people, but others argue it contributes to social isolation.”
Boosting Your Score
- Vary your language: Instead of repeating “as seen by,” consider synonyms like “from the perspective of,” “according to,” or “in the view of.”
- Use it judiciously: Don’t overuse the phrase. Aim for clarity and natural language flow.
- Provide context: Clearly explain whose perspective you are presenting and why it’s relevant.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect preposition: Using prepositions other than “by” after “seen.” Incorrect: “As seen through the government…” Correct: “As seen by the government…”
- Misplaced modifier: Placing “as seen by” in a way that creates ambiguity. Incorrect: The economy is improving as seen by the latest figures. Correct: As seen by the latest figures, the economy is improving.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of phrases like “as seen by” can significantly enhance your ability to express complex ideas effectively in the IELTS exam. By understanding its meaning, application, and common pitfalls, you can incorporate it into your writing and speaking, demonstrating a higher level of language proficiency and critical thinking. For more insights on how to express perspectives in different ways, check out resources like how to answer “what’s the best movie you’ve seen recently” questions or explore the nuances of phrases like “never before have I seen such beauty.” (https://www.ielts.net/never-before-have-i-seen-such-beauty/). Remember, consistent practice and a keen eye for detail are key to achieving your desired IELTS band score.
