The phrase “be bent on + noun/gerund” is a valuable expression that can elevate your language skills in the IELTS exam. This idiomatic structure conveys a strong determination or focus on achieving a particular goal or action. Let’s explore its usage and how you can incorporate it into your IELTS preparation.
Understanding “Be Bent on + Noun/Gerund”
The phrase “be bent on” means to be determined or resolved to do something, often with great enthusiasm or even obsession. When followed by a noun or gerund, it creates a powerful expression of intent.
Examples:
- She is bent on winning the competition.
- The company is bent on expansion into new markets.
- They are bent on improving their IELTS scores.
In these sentences, the subjects demonstrate a strong commitment to their goals. This structure appears occasionally in IELTS reading passages and can be effectively used in speaking and writing tasks to showcase advanced vocabulary and grammatical knowledge.
Grammar and Usage
Formula and Structure
The basic structure is:
[Subject] + [be] + bent on + [noun/gerund]
- The verb “be” should be conjugated to match the subject and tense.
- The noun or gerund following “bent on” represents the goal or action.
Application in IELTS Sections
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IELTS Reading:
Recognize this phrase in passages to understand the author’s emphasis on a character’s or entity’s determination.Example: “The environmentalist was bent on preserving the endangered species, dedicating her entire career to this cause.”
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IELTS Listening:
Be prepared to hear this phrase in conversations or monologues describing people’s intentions or goals.Example: “The city council is bent on reducing traffic congestion in the downtown area.”
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IELTS Writing:
Incorporate this phrase in Task 2 essays to express strong opinions or describe determined actions.Example: “Many governments are bent on implementing renewable energy solutions to combat climate change.”
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IELTS Speaking:
Use this phrase to describe your own or others’ determination in achieving goals.Example: “I’m bent on achieving a high score in IELTS to pursue my dream of studying abroad.”
Sample Writings and Analyses
Task 2 Essay Extract
Topic: Some people believe that technological advancements are making our lives more complicated. Do you agree or disagree?
“While some argue that technology complicates our lives, I disagree. In fact, many tech companies are bent on simplifying our daily routines through innovative solutions. For instance, smartphone apps are designed to streamline tasks like banking, shopping, and communication, making these activities more efficient and less time-consuming. Moreover, artificial intelligence is bent on automating complex processes in various industries, from manufacturing to healthcare, thereby reducing human error and increasing productivity.”
Analysis: The use of “bent on” in this context emphasizes the strong focus and intention of technology companies and AI development. It adds a layer of sophistication to the argument, demonstrating the writer’s ability to use advanced idiomatic expressions.
Speaking Part 3 Sample Answer
Question: How do you think education will change in the future?
“I believe future education systems will be bent on personalizing learning experiences for each student. Educational institutions and tech companies are already bent on developing AI-driven platforms that can adapt to individual learning styles and paces. This shift towards personalization is likely to revolutionize how we approach education, making it more effective and engaging for learners of all ages.”
Analysis: Here, “bent on” is used twice to emphasize the strong focus on personalization in future education. This repetition reinforces the idea while showcasing the speaker’s command of advanced English expressions.
Strategies for High Scores
To achieve higher band scores in IELTS, consider these strategies when using “be bent on + noun/gerund”:
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Contextual Appropriateness: Use the phrase in contexts where strong determination or focus is relevant. Overuse or misuse can appear unnatural.
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Varied Vocabulary: While “bent on” is effective, also use synonymous expressions like “determined to,” “focused on,” or “committed to” to demonstrate lexical resource.
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Grammatical Accuracy: Ensure correct conjugation of “be” and proper use of nouns or gerunds following the phrase.
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Natural Integration: Incorporate the phrase smoothly into your speech or writing, avoiding forced usage.
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Topic Relevance: Apply the phrase to discuss goals, ambitions, or societal trends in Task 2 essays or Speaking Part 3 responses.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Incorrect Verb Form:
Incorrect: “He bent on studying hard.”
Correct: “He is bent on studying hard.” -
Using an Infinitive Instead of a Gerund:
Incorrect: “They are bent on to win the championship.”
Correct: “They are bent on winning the championship.” -
Misunderstanding the Intensity:
Be cautious not to use this phrase for minor or casual intentions. It implies a strong, almost single-minded focus. -
Overuse:
While it’s a powerful phrase, using it too frequently can make your language sound repetitive or unnatural. -
Incorrect Preposition:
Some learners mistakenly use “of” instead of “on.”
Incorrect: “She is bent of achieving success.”
Correct: “She is bent on achieving success.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “be bent on + noun/gerund” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance, particularly in Writing and Speaking sections. This phrase allows you to express determination and focus with precision and sophistication. Remember to practice using it in various contexts and combine it with other advanced structures to showcase your language proficiency. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, be bent on incorporating such idiomatic expressions naturally and effectively in your language use.