The “be prohibited from + gerund” structure is a crucial grammar pattern that frequently appears in IELTS exams. Understanding and using this structure correctly can significantly enhance your IELTS score across all sections. Let’s delve into its meaning, usage, and application in IELTS tasks.
Understanding the “Be Prohibited From + Gerund” Structure
The “be prohibited from + gerund” structure is used to express that someone is not allowed or forbidden to do something. It’s a formal way of stating restrictions or rules, making it particularly relevant in academic and professional contexts often tested in IELTS.
Formula and Grammar Points
Formula: [Subject] + [be] + prohibited from + [gerund]
This structure combines the passive voice (“be prohibited”) with a gerund, creating a powerful tool for expressing formal prohibitions. The subject is typically the person or entity being restricted, while the gerund represents the prohibited action.
Examples and Analysis
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“Students are prohibited from using mobile phones during exams.”
- Subject: Students
- Verb: are (be verb in plural form)
- Prohibited from: the core structure
- Gerund: using
-
“The company was prohibited from selling its products in certain countries.”
- Subject: The company
- Verb: was (be verb in past tense)
- Prohibited from: the core structure
- Gerund: selling
-
“Visitors are prohibited from feeding the animals at the zoo.”
- Subject: Visitors
- Verb: are (be verb in plural form)
- Prohibited from: the core structure
- Gerund: feeding
Applying “Be Prohibited From + Gerund” in IELTS Writing
In IELTS Writing, using this structure can demonstrate your command of formal language and complex grammatical structures, potentially boosting your score.
Task 1 (Academic) Example:
When describing rules or regulations in graphs or charts:
“According to the chart, employees are prohibited from sharing confidential information outside the company. This strict policy is prohibited from being violated under any circumstances.”
Task 2 Example:
In an essay about environmental protection:
“Many governments have implemented laws where industries are prohibited from dumping waste into rivers. However, some argue that companies should not be prohibited from operating freely, as it might hinder economic growth.”
Enhancing IELTS Speaking with “Be Prohibited From + Gerund”
Incorporating this structure in your speaking responses can showcase your language proficiency:
Question: “What are some rules in your workplace or school?”
Sample answer: “In my university, students are prohibited from plagiarizing in their assignments. We’re also prohibited from bringing food into the library. These rules are prohibited from being ignored, and there are strict consequences for breaking them.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Incorrect verb form:
- Incorrect: “They prohibited from smoking.”
- Correct: “They are prohibited from smoking.”
-
Using infinitive instead of gerund:
- Incorrect: “We are prohibited from to enter the building after hours.”
- Correct: “We are prohibited from entering the building after hours.”
-
Omitting “from”:
- Incorrect: “Passengers are prohibited smoking on the train.”
- Correct: “Passengers are prohibited from smoking on the train.”
Alternative Expressions for Higher Band Scores
To achieve higher band scores, consider using these alternatives:
-
“Be forbidden from + gerund”
Example: “Hikers are forbidden from leaving the designated trails.” -
“Be barred from + gerund”
Example: “The athlete was barred from competing due to doping allegations.” -
“Be restricted from + gerund”
Example: “Minors are restricted from purchasing alcohol in most countries.”
These variations can demonstrate a wider vocabulary range, potentially leading to higher scores in both writing and speaking tasks.
Conclusion
Mastering the “be prohibited from + gerund” structure is essential for IELTS success. By understanding its usage, avoiding common mistakes, and practicing with alternative expressions, you can enhance your language proficiency and boost your IELTS scores. Remember to use this structure in context, particularly when discussing rules, regulations, or formal prohibitions in your IELTS tasks.
For further practice, try incorporating this structure in essays about topics like environmental regulations, workplace policies, or social norms. The more you use it, the more natural it will become in your English expression.
To learn more about advanced grammatical structures for IELTS, you might find our articles on anti-doping policies and drafting in cycling helpful for expanding your vocabulary and understanding of formal language usage in sports-related contexts.