Learning to express refusal politely and effectively is a crucial skill assessed in IELTS Speaking. This topic frequently appears in all three parts of the speaking test, particularly in Part 2 cue cards.
IELTS Speaking Test Examiner and Candidate Discussion
Part 1: Introduction and Interview Questions
Common questions about saying ‘no’:
- Do you find it difficult to say ‘no’ to people?
- How do people in your culture typically refuse requests?
- When was the last time you had to refuse something?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Actually, I used to struggle with refusing requests, but I’ve learned to be more assertive while remaining polite. In my experience, it’s all about striking the right balance between being honest and considerate of others’ feelings.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Task
Describe a time when you had to say ‘no’ to something
You should say:
- What the situation was
- Why you had to refuse
- How you felt about it
- What the result was
Similar to describe a decision that affected your life, this topic requires careful consideration of personal experiences and their impacts.
Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
“I’d like to talk about a significant moment in my career when I had to decline a promotion opportunity. It was particularly challenging because it involved relocating to another country, which would have meant leaving my family behind.
The position offered substantial benefits, including a considerable salary increase and enhanced responsibilities. However, after careful deliberation, I realized it would have compromised my work-life balance and my family commitments.
Initially, I felt somewhat apprehensive about turning down such a prestigious opportunity. However, I approached the situation professionally by explaining my decision to my supervisor with complete transparency.
The outcome was surprisingly positive – my employers respected my decision and later offered me an alternative role that didn’t require relocation. This experience taught me valuable lessons about setting boundaries and staying true to my priorities.”
Professional Meeting Showing Refusal of Job Offer
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: Why do some people find it difficult to refuse requests?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I believe people struggle with refusal primarily because they’re concerned about maintaining relationships and avoiding conflict. There’s often an inherent fear of disappointing others or being perceived as unhelpful. Moreover, in many cultures, saying ‘no’ can be seen as socially inappropriate or confrontational.”
Q: How has the ability to say ‘no’ changed in modern society?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“There’s been a significant shift in how people view personal boundaries in recent years. With the growing emphasis on mental health and work-life balance, similar to describe an achievement that made you proud, people are becoming more comfortable with setting limits. Social media has also played a crucial role in normalizing the concept of healthy boundaries.”
Key Vocabulary and Phrases
- Assert oneself /əˈsɜːt/ (v): to express opinions or desires strongly and confidently
- Draw the line (idiom): to set a limit beyond which one will not go
- Tactfully /ˈtæktfəli/ (adv): showing sensitivity in dealing with others
- Set boundaries (phrase): establish limits in relationships or situations
- Diplomatic refusal (phrase): declining something in a polite and sensitive way
Examiner’s Tips
- Structure your response clearly with proper examples
- Use appropriate intonation to convey politeness
- Demonstrate awareness of cultural sensitivity
- Include personal experiences to make your answer authentic
- Balance directness with politeness in your responses
Remember, like describe a memorable concert you attended, the key is to provide specific details while maintaining natural flow in your speech.
