The phrase “Be On The Brink Of + Gerund” is a powerful idiomatic expression that can significantly enhance your IELTS score when used correctly. This structure appears frequently in IELTS reading passages and can be effectively employed in writing and speaking tasks to demonstrate advanced language proficiency. Let’s delve into its meaning, usage, and how to incorporate it into your IELTS preparation.
Understanding “Be on the Brink of + Gerund”
The expression “be on the brink of + gerund” means to be very close to doing something or experiencing a significant change. It often implies a sense of imminent danger or a critical point in a situation. This phrase is particularly useful in describing situations that are about to undergo a dramatic shift or are at a crucial juncture.
Examples:
- The company is on the brink of bankruptcy.
- Scientists believe we are on the brink of making a major breakthrough in cancer research.
- The negotiations are on the brink of collapsing.
- The ecosystem is on the brink of collapse due to climate change.
- The team was on the brink of winning the championship when disaster struck.
IELTS exam preparation
Grammar and Structure
The structure of this phrase is as follows:
[Subject] + [be verb] + on the brink of + [gerund/noun]
It’s crucial to note that the gerund (verb + -ing) or a noun follows “on the brink of.” This structure is fixed and should be memorized to avoid common mistakes.
Using in IELTS Writing
In IELTS Writing Task 2, this phrase can be particularly effective in introductions or topic sentences to emphasize the urgency or importance of an issue. For example:
“Many experts argue that our planet is on the brink of experiencing irreversible climate change, making it imperative that immediate action be taken.”
This sentence not only introduces the topic but also sets a tone of urgency, which can be developed further in the essay.
Incorporating in IELTS Speaking
For the IELTS Speaking test, using this phrase can demonstrate your ability to use advanced vocabulary and complex structures. You might use it in Part 2 or Part 3 responses:
“In my hometown, the local government is on the brink of implementing a new public transportation system that could revolutionize how people commute.”
This response shows sophistication in language use and can help you achieve a higher band score.
Advanced Usage and Band Score Improvement
To aim for band scores 7 and above, it’s not enough to simply use the phrase correctly. You need to demonstrate flexibility and a nuanced understanding of its usage.
Band 6 Example:
“The company is on the brink of closing because of financial problems.”
While correct, this usage is relatively simple.
Band 7-8 Example:
“The once-thriving corporation now finds itself on the brink of insolvency, a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in today’s volatile economic climate.”
This example demonstrates a more sophisticated use of vocabulary and a deeper understanding of the context.
Band 9 Example:
“As global tensions escalate, diplomats are working tirelessly to prevent the situation from teetering on the brink of armed conflict, emphasizing the delicate balance between assertive foreign policy and the need for peaceful resolution.”
This response not only uses the phrase correctly but also embeds it within a complex sentence structure, showcasing advanced vocabulary and a nuanced understanding of global issues.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Incorrect verb form:
- Incorrect: “They are on the brink to collapse.”
- Correct: “They are on the brink of collapsing.”
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Misusing with non-imminent situations:
- Inappropriate: “I am on the brink of going to the supermarket.”
- Better: “I am about to go to the supermarket.”
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Overuse:
Using this phrase too frequently can make your writing or speaking seem repetitive and unnatural. Use it sparingly and only when it truly fits the context. -
Mixing metaphors:
- Awkward: “The project is on the brink of taking off to new heights.”
- Better: “The project is on the brink of success.” or “The project is about to take off to new heights.”
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Using with positive, non-critical situations:
- Inappropriate: “She is on the brink of getting a promotion.”
- Better: “She is on the verge of getting a promotion.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “be on the brink of + gerund” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. Remember to use it to describe imminent, often critical situations. Practice incorporating this phrase into your writing and speaking, always ensuring that the context is appropriate. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, look for opportunities to use this structure in practice essays and mock speaking tests. By doing so, you’ll not only improve your grasp of this particular phrase but also demonstrate the kind of advanced language use that examiners are looking for in high-scoring responses.
