The phrase “be devoid of + noun” is a powerful expression that can elevate your English writing and speaking, particularly in the IELTS exam. This structure is often used to describe a complete lack or absence of something, adding a sophisticated touch to your language. Let’s explore how to effectively use this phrase to boost your IELTS score.
Understanding “Be devoid of + noun”
The expression “be devoid of + noun” means to be completely lacking or without something. It’s a formal way to express absence and is particularly useful in academic and professional contexts, making it ideal for the IELTS exam.
Examples:
- The speech was devoid of any substance, disappointing many listeners.
- The landscape was devoid of vegetation, resembling a barren desert.
- His argument was devoid of logic, making it difficult to take seriously.
- The room was devoid of furniture, echoing with emptiness.
- The report was devoid of concrete evidence, weakening its credibility.
IELTS Exam Preparation
Grammar and Usage
Formula:
[Subject] + [be (conjugated)] + devoid of + [noun]
The phrase “be devoid of” is followed by a noun or noun phrase. It’s important to note that “devoid” is an adjective, not a verb, so it must be used with a form of “to be”.
Analysis for IELTS Application:
IELTS Writing Task 2: Use this phrase to add sophistication to your essays. For example:
“Modern cities are often devoid of green spaces, leading to environmental and health issues.”IELTS Speaking Part 3: Employ this structure to express complex ideas:
“Some argue that social media interactions are devoid of genuine emotion, affecting real-life relationships.”IELTS Writing Task 1: While less common in data description tasks, it can be used in certain contexts:
“The graph shows that during winter months, the region is almost devoid of tourist activity.”
Sample Passages and Analysis
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample:
“In recent years, many urban areas have become devoid of community spirit. This absence of social cohesion has led to numerous problems, including increased crime rates and a sense of isolation among residents. To address this issue, local governments should implement initiatives that foster community engagement, such as neighborhood events and shared public spaces. By doing so, they can transform areas that are devoid of social interaction into vibrant, connected communities.”
Analysis: The use of “devoid of” here adds a formal and academic tone to the essay, demonstrating a high level of vocabulary. It effectively emphasizes the complete lack of community spirit and social interaction, which is crucial for the argument being made.
IELTS Speaking Part 2 Sample:
“I’d like to describe a place that left a lasting impression on me. It was a remote beach I visited last summer, which was completely devoid of human presence. The pristine shoreline stretched for miles, devoid of any signs of civilization. This absence of human touch made the natural beauty even more striking. The experience of being in a place so devoid of artificial noise was incredibly peaceful and rejuvenating.”
Analysis: In this speaking sample, the repeated use of “devoid of” helps create a vivid picture of the beach’s isolation and untouched nature. It showcases the speaker’s ability to use advanced vocabulary consistently and appropriately.
Remote Pristine Beach
Strategies for High Scores
To achieve a high band score in IELTS, it’s crucial to use advanced structures like “be devoid of” accurately and appropriately. Here’s how you can incorporate it effectively:
Variety: Use “be devoid of” alongside other synonymous expressions like “lack,” “be absent of,” or “be bereft of” to demonstrate lexical resource.
Context: Ensure you use this phrase in appropriate contexts, typically when discussing serious or formal topics.
Collocations: Learn common collocations with “devoid of,” such as “devoid of meaning,” “devoid of humor,” or “devoid of life.”
Band 7-8 Usage: Use the phrase correctly in complex sentences.
Example: “Despite its technological advancements, the city was paradoxically devoid of the human warmth that characterizes smaller communities.”Band 8-9 Usage: Incorporate the phrase into more sophisticated structures and ideas.
Example: “The policy, while well-intentioned, was devoid of practical implementation strategies, rendering it ineffective in addressing the core issues it aimed to resolve.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect verb form: Remember, “devoid” is an adjective, not a verb.
Incorrect: The room devoids of furniture.
Correct: The room is devoid of furniture.Wrong preposition: Always use “of” after “devoid.”
Incorrect: The speech was devoid from emotion.
Correct: The speech was devoid of emotion.Overuse: While it’s a sophisticated phrase, overusing it can make your language sound unnatural.
Inappropriate context: Avoid using it in casual contexts where simpler alternatives would be more suitable.
Incorrect noun form: Ensure you use a noun or noun phrase after “of.”
Incorrect: The landscape was devoid of green.
Correct: The landscape was devoid of greenery.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “be devoid of + noun” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. It allows you to express ideas of absence or lack with precision and sophistication. Remember to practice using this phrase in various contexts relevant to IELTS topics such as environment, education, technology, and social issues. By incorporating this structure alongside other advanced language features, you’ll be well-equipped to achieve a high band score in your IELTS exam.
For further practice, try using “be devoid of” in essays about cultural preservation, crime reduction through education, or urban biodiversity challenges. These topics often appear in IELTS and provide excellent opportunities to showcase your advanced language skills.
Challenges of Maintaining Biodiversity in Urban Areas