The phrase “be absolved of + noun” is a formal expression that can significantly enhance your vocabulary and grammatical range in IELTS. This structure is particularly useful in Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3, where discussing complex ideas and ethical situations is common. Let’s explore its meaning, usage, and how to incorporate it effectively in your IELTS responses.
Understanding “Be Absolved of + Noun”
The phrase “be absolved of + noun” means to be freed from blame, responsibility, or consequences for something. It’s often used in contexts involving guilt, obligations, or duties. This expression can elevate your language use, potentially boosting your IELTS score in both Writing and Speaking sections.
Grammatical Structure
The basic structure is:
[Subject] + be + absolved of + [noun/noun phrase]
Examples:
- “The company was absolved of any wrongdoing in the environmental scandal.”
- “After the investigation, she was absolved of all responsibility for the project’s failure.”
Using “Be Absolved of + Noun” in IELTS Writing
Incorporating this phrase in your IELTS Writing can demonstrate a high level of language proficiency. Here’s how you can use it effectively:
Writing Task 2 Example
Topic: Some people believe that individuals should be held responsible for their own actions, while others think that society is to blame for people’s behavior.
Sample paragraph:
“While it’s tempting to absolve individuals of personal responsibility for their actions by blaming societal influences, I believe that adults should be held accountable for their choices. Society may shape our environment, but it doesn’t dictate our every decision. For instance, a person who commits a crime cannot be absolved of guilt simply because they grew up in a disadvantaged area. However, it’s crucial to acknowledge that societal factors can mitigate circumstances, even if they don’t completely absolve one of responsibility.”
Analysis:
- The phrase is used three times with different nouns (responsibility, guilt), showcasing versatility.
- It’s integrated naturally into the argument, supporting the main points.
- The varied use demonstrates a wide vocabulary range, which is crucial for a high band score in IELTS Writing.
Incorporating “Be Absolved of + Noun” in IELTS Speaking
Using this phrase in Speaking, especially in Part 3, can impress the examiner with your advanced vocabulary. Here’s an example:
Speaking Part 3 Example
Question: “Do you think social media companies should be responsible for the content posted on their platforms?”
Sample answer:
“That’s a complex issue. On one hand, social media companies provide the platform where harmful content can spread, so they can’t be entirely absolved of responsibility. They should have some measures in place to monitor and remove dangerous or illegal content. However, it’s also unrealistic to expect these companies to be absolved of all liability for every post made by millions of users. I believe there should be a balance where companies are held accountable for having proper safeguards, but aren’t expected to be absolved of every potential mistake or oversight. It’s a shared responsibility between the platforms, users, and regulatory bodies.”
Analysis:
- The phrase is used three times, each with a different noun (responsibility, liability, mistake).
- It’s seamlessly integrated into a nuanced response, demonstrating the ability to discuss complex ideas.
- The varied use shows a strong command of English, crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS Speaking.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
When using “be absolved of + noun”, be aware of these common errors:
-
Incorrect preposition: Don’t say “absolved from” or “absolved for”. Always use “absolved of”.
Incorrect: “He was absolved from blame.”
Correct: “He was absolved of blame.” -
Using it with inappropriate nouns: The noun should relate to responsibility, blame, or obligation.
Awkward: “She was absolved of happiness.”
Better: “She was absolved of guilt, which brought her happiness.” -
Overuse: While it’s a sophisticated phrase, using it too frequently can seem unnatural.
Overused: “The manager was absolved of responsibility, the employee was absolved of blame, and the company was absolved of liability.”
Better: “The manager was absolved of responsibility, the employee was cleared of blame, and the company was deemed not liable.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “be absolved of + noun” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. It demonstrates a sophisticated command of English and the ability to discuss complex ideas. Practice using this phrase in various contexts related to responsibility, ethics, and social issues. Remember to use it judiciously and always in appropriate contexts to maximize its impact on your IELTS scores.
For further practice, try incorporating this phrase in essays about legal systems, corporate responsibility, or personal accountability. These topics frequently appear in IELTS Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3, providing ample opportunities to showcase your advanced language skills.