The phrase “be keen on + noun/gerund” is a valuable expression for IELTS test-takers to master. It’s commonly used to express strong interest or enthusiasm for an activity, subject, or idea. Understanding how to use this structure correctly can significantly enhance your language skills and help you achieve a higher band score in the IELTS exam.
Understanding the Meaning and Usage
The expression “be keen on” is synonymous with “to be enthusiastic about” or “to have a strong interest in.” It’s a more formal and sophisticated way to express liking or enjoyment, making it particularly useful in academic writing and formal speaking contexts.
Examples:
- “I am keen on learning new languages.” (gerund)
- “She is keen on environmental conservation.” (noun)
- “They are keen on the idea of remote work.” (noun phrase)
In these examples, the structure clearly conveys a strong interest or enthusiasm for the subject that follows “keen on.”
Grammar and Structure
The basic structure of this phrase is:
[Subject] + [be verb] + keen on + [noun/gerund]
It’s important to note that “keen on” can be followed by either a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing). This flexibility allows for a wide range of expressions.
Using with a Noun
When using “be keen on” with a noun, it typically refers to a general interest or passion for a subject or concept.
Examples:
- “He is keen on sports.” (general interest in sports)
- “We are keen on the latest technology.” (enthusiasm for technology)
- “The company is keen on innovation.” (strong focus on innovation)
Using with a Gerund
When followed by a gerund, “be keen on” often describes an enthusiasm for an activity or process.
Examples:
- “I’m keen on improving my writing skills.” (enthusiasm for the process of improvement)
- “They are keen on exploring new markets.” (interest in the activity of exploration)
- “She’s keen on developing sustainable solutions.” (passion for the process of development)
Application in IELTS Writing
In IELTS Writing, using “be keen on” can help you express your interests and opinions more eloquently. It’s particularly useful in Task 2 essays where you need to discuss personal views or societal trends.
Example paragraph:
“In recent years, many young professionals have become keen on pursuing careers in technology. This trend is not surprising, given the rapid advancements in the field and the numerous opportunities it presents. While some are keen on developing new software, others are keen on the idea of creating innovative hardware solutions. This enthusiasm for technology is likely to drive significant progress in various sectors.”
In this paragraph, the phrase is used three times, each demonstrating a different application: with a gerund, with a noun, and with a noun phrase. This variety showcases language proficiency and can contribute to a higher band score.
Enhancing IELTS Speaking Responses
In the Speaking test, using “be keen on” can help you express your interests more formally and precisely. It’s particularly useful in Part 2 (the long turn) and Part 3 (the discussion).
Example response for a question about hobbies:
“I’m keen on photography. I’ve always been fascinated by the way a single image can tell a compelling story. Recently, I’ve become particularly keen on landscape photography. I find that being keen on this hobby has not only improved my artistic skills but also encouraged me to explore nature more often.”
This response demonstrates the ability to use the phrase in different contexts, showing flexibility and range in language use.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
-
Incorrect preposition: Some learners mistakenly use “of” instead of “on.”
Incorrect: “I am keen of reading.”
Correct: “I am keen on reading.” -
Using “to” instead of gerund:
Incorrect: “She is keen on to travel.”
Correct: “She is keen on traveling.” -
Overuse: While it’s a useful phrase, overusing it can make your speech or writing sound repetitive. Vary your language with synonyms like “passionate about,” “enthusiastic about,” or “interested in.”
-
Incorrect verb form: Remember to conjugate “be” correctly.
Incorrect: “He keen on music.”
Correct: “He is keen on music.” -
Using with adjectives: “Keen on” is not used with adjectives.
Incorrect: “They are keen on successful.”
Correct: “They are keen on success.”
Alternatives and Related Expressions
To further enhance your vocabulary for IELTS, consider these related expressions:
- Be interested in + noun/gerund
- Be passionate about + noun/gerund
- Be enthusiastic about + noun/gerund
- Have a keen interest in + noun
- Be fond of + noun/gerund
Using these alternatives can help you avoid repetition and demonstrate a wider vocabulary range. For example:
“While I am keen on learning languages, my sister is passionate about mathematics. Our parents have a keen interest in our educational progress and are enthusiastic about supporting our diverse interests.”
For more information on related structures, you might find our article on be interested in + noun/gerund helpful.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “be keen on + noun/gerund” can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS test. It allows you to express enthusiasm and interest in a sophisticated manner, suitable for both academic writing and formal speaking contexts. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts, and don’t hesitate to incorporate it into your IELTS preparation exercises. By doing so, you’ll not only improve your grammar but also demonstrate a higher level of language proficiency, potentially boosting your band score.