Are you preparing for the IELTS exam and looking to enhance your grammar skills? One structure that can significantly boost your score is “be insistent on + noun/gerund”. This powerful phrase not only demonstrates your command of advanced English but also adds emphasis and precision to your writing and speaking. Let’s dive into how you can effectively use this structure to excel in your IELTS test.
Understanding “Be Insistent On + Noun/Gerund”
The phrase “be insistent on” is used to express a strong determination or unwavering stance on a particular action or idea. It’s a more formal and emphatic way of saying “insist on”. In IELTS, using this structure can help you convey your opinions and arguments more forcefully, which is particularly useful in the Writing and Speaking sections.
Examples:
- “The government is insistent on reducing carbon emissions.”
- “She was insistent on finishing her degree despite financial difficulties.”
- “We are insistent on maintaining high quality standards in our products.”
Grammar Formula and Usage
The structure follows this pattern:
[Subject] + [be] + insistent + on + [noun/gerund]
It’s crucial to note that after “on”, you can use either a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing). This flexibility allows for various expressions in your IELTS responses.
Using in IELTS Writing Task 2
In Writing Task 2, this structure can be particularly effective when expressing strong opinions or describing determined actions.
Example:
“Many environmentalists are insistent on implementing stricter regulations to protect endangered species. While some argue that this could harm economic growth, I believe that being insistent on conservation is crucial for long-term sustainability.”
Analysis: In this example, the structure is used twice. First with a noun phrase (“implementing stricter regulations”) and then with a gerund (“being”). This demonstrates versatility and advanced grammar usage, which can contribute to a higher band score.
Incorporating in IELTS Speaking
For the Speaking test, using “be insistent on” can showcase your ability to express determination and strong beliefs.
Example:
Examiner: “What changes would you like to see in your city?”
Candidate: “I am insistent on improving public transportation in my city. I believe that being insistent on developing a more efficient bus and metro system would significantly reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.”
Analysis: Here, the candidate uses the structure with both a gerund (“improving”) and a noun phrase (“developing a more efficient bus and metro system”), demonstrating flexibility and advanced language use.
Achieving Higher Band Scores with “Be Insistent On”
To aim for higher band scores (7+), it’s not just about using the structure correctly, but also about using it appropriately and in conjunction with other advanced structures.
Band 6 example:
“The company insists on quality control.”
Band 7-8 example:
“The multinational corporation is insistent on implementing rigorous quality control measures, which has significantly enhanced its reputation in the global market.”
Band 9 example:
“Despite facing economic pressures, the innovative start-up remains insistent on prioritizing ethical practices and sustainable development, a stance that has not only garnered customer loyalty but also attracted socially conscious investors.”
The higher band examples demonstrate more sophisticated vocabulary, complex sentence structures, and a nuanced use of the “be insistent on” phrase.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Incorrect preposition: “He is insistent for getting a promotion.” (Correct: He is insistent on getting a promotion.)
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Using a base verb instead of a gerund: “They are insistent on improve their services.” (Correct: They are insistent on improving their services.)
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Overuse: While it’s a useful structure, overusing it can make your writing or speaking seem repetitive. Vary your language with synonymous phrases like “strongly advocate for” or “firmly believe in”.
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Inappropriate context: “I am insistent on having coffee every morning.” While grammatically correct, this might be too strong for such a mundane activity. Reserve it for more significant or formal contexts.
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Forgetting to conjugate ‘be’: “He insistent on completing the project on time.” (Correct: He is insistent on completing the project on time.)
Conclusion
Mastering the “be insistent on + noun/gerund” structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. It allows you to express determination and strong opinions effectively, which is crucial in both the Writing and Speaking sections. Remember to use it appropriately, vary your language, and practice incorporating it into complex sentences. As you prepare, try using this structure in practice essays on topics like environmental protection, education reform, or technological advancements – all common themes in IELTS tasks. With consistent practice, you’ll find yourself using this structure naturally and effectively, boosting your chances of achieving a higher band score.