“Be Abstained From + Gerund” is a formal grammatical structure that can elevate your language proficiency in IELTS. This phrase is particularly useful in Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3, where discussing complex topics and expressing opinions on social issues is required. Let’s explore how to effectively use this structure to boost your IELTS score.

Understanding “Be Abstained From + Gerund”

The phrase “be abstained from + gerund” means to refrain or withhold oneself from doing something, often due to moral, legal, or personal reasons. It’s a passive construction that emphasizes the action being avoided rather than the person avoiding it.

Examples:

1. Alcohol should be abstained from during pregnancy.
2. Violent behavior must be abstained from in all circumstances.
3. Junk food should be abstained from for better health.

In these examples, the gerund (the -ing form) follows “be abstained from,” indicating the action to be avoided.

Person abstaining from various activities

Grammar Formula and Usage

The formula for this structure is:

[Subject] + [should/must/can/etc.] + be abstained from + [gerund]

This passive construction is typically used in formal contexts, making it suitable for IELTS Writing Task 2 essays and Speaking Part 3 discussions on social issues.

Using in IELTS Writing Task 2

In Writing Task 2, you can use this structure to discuss societal norms, health advice, or legal regulations. For example:

“In modern society, excessive social media use should be abstained from to maintain real-life relationships and mental well-being.”

This sentence demonstrates a high level of grammatical control and vocabulary, which can contribute to a higher band score in the Grammatical Range and Accuracy criterion.

Incorporating in IELTS Speaking Part 3

For Speaking Part 3, you might use this structure when giving opinions on social issues or discussing rules and regulations. For instance:

Examiner: What behaviors should be avoided in public places?
You: “I believe that littering and loud noise should be abstained from in public areas to maintain cleanliness and respect for others.”

Using this structure showcases your ability to use complex grammar accurately, potentially improving your Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.

Sample Passages and Analysis

Let’s look at some sample passages that incorporate “be abstained from + gerund” and analyze how they can boost your IELTS performance.

Writing Task 2 Sample:

Topic: Some people believe that certain unpopular books should be banned in public libraries. Do you agree or disagree?

“While freedom of expression is a fundamental right, I disagree that unpopular books should be banned. Instead, I believe that censorship should be abstained from in public libraries. Banning books, regardless of their popularity or content, limits access to diverse perspectives and hinders intellectual growth. By ensuring that all literature is not abstained from being available, libraries can foster critical thinking and open-mindedness among readers.”

Analysis: This passage uses “be abstained from” twice, once in its standard form and once in a negative construction. This demonstrates flexibility in using the structure and shows a high level of grammatical control, which is crucial for achieving a band 7 or higher in IELTS Writing.

Speaking Part 3 Sample:

Examiner: How can societies reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods?
You: “I think there are several approaches societies can take. Firstly, the marketing of junk food should be abstained from, especially to children. Additionally, education about nutrition must not be abstained from in schools, as it’s crucial for developing healthy eating habits. Lastly, governments could implement policies ensuring that unhealthy food consumption is abstained from in public institutions like schools and hospitals.”

Analysis: This response incorporates the structure three times, including a negative form, demonstrating a sophisticated grasp of grammar. It also uses synonyms and related phrases, showing lexical resource proficiency. This level of language use could contribute to a band 8 or 9 in Speaking.

Tips for Achieving Higher Band Scores

To maximize your score when using “be abstained from + gerund”:

1. Use it in conjunction with other complex structures to demonstrate range.
2. Ensure the context is formal and appropriate for the structure.
3. Practice using it in both affirmative and negative forms.
4. Combine it with advanced vocabulary related to the topic.

Compare these sentences:

Band 6: “People should not use social media too much.”
Band 8: “Excessive use of social media should be abstained from to maintain genuine interpersonal relationships.”

The band 8 sentence demonstrates more sophisticated grammar and vocabulary, which are key factors in achieving higher scores.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When using this structure, be aware of these potential errors:

1. Incorrect verb form: “Be abstained from eating” is correct, not “Be abstained from eat.”
2. Overuse: While it’s a sophisticated structure, using it too frequently can make your writing or speaking seem unnatural.
3. Inappropriate context: This phrase is formal, so avoid using it in casual contexts.
4. Forgetting the “from”: “Be abstained eating” is incorrect; always include “from.”

Incorrect: “Smoking is abstained in public places.”
Correct: “Smoking should be abstained from in public places.”

Conclusion

Mastering the “be abstained from + gerund” structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance, particularly in Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3. By using this construction accurately and appropriately, you demonstrate a high level of grammatical control and formal language use. Remember to practice incorporating this structure into your responses on topics like social issues, health, and regulations. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider how you can use this phrase to discuss abstaining from harmful behaviors, promoting positive societal changes, or emphasizing important rules and guidelines.