Many IELTS candidates wonder if using phrases like “due to the fact that” will impress examiners and boost their scores. While grammatically correct, it’s essential to understand the nuances of such phrases to use them effectively. Overusing formal language can make your writing sound unnatural and detract from the clarity of your message.
Let’s analyze a few examples:
Example 1:
- Formal: Due to the fact that the internet has become ubiquitous, traditional forms of communication have declined.
- Improved: Because the internet is so widespread, traditional communication methods have become less common.
Example 2:
- Formal: The increase in traffic congestion is due to the fact that there are more cars on the road.
- Improved: Traffic congestion is increasing because there are simply more cars on the road.
As you can see, using simpler alternatives often leads to more concise and impactful sentences.
Understanding “Due to the Fact That”
“Due to the fact that” is a prepositional phrase signifying causation. It is grammatically correct but considered overly formal for academic and everyday writing, let alone the IELTS exam.
Frequency in IELTS
This phrase is not particularly common in high-scoring IELTS responses. Examiners look for a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and using simpler, more concise language is often preferred.
Alternatives to “Due to the Fact That”
Let’s explore some common and effective alternatives:
1. Because/Since/As
These conjunctions offer a straightforward way to express causation:
Formula: Because/Since/As + subject + verb
Example:
- Because of increased global trade, some local businesses are struggling to compete.
2. Due to/Owing to
These prepositions provide a more concise alternative:
Formula: Due to/Owing to + noun phrase
Example:
- Due to the heavy rainfall, the outdoor concert was canceled.
IELTS Writing Example (Task 2):
Topic: Some people believe that the government should invest in public transportation, while others think that private car ownership should be encouraged. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Body Paragraph:
Investing in public transportation can alleviate traffic congestion in cities. Due to the increasing population density in urban areas, the number of private vehicles on the roads has skyrocketed. This leads to gridlock during peak hours, affecting productivity and increasing air pollution. By providing affordable and efficient public transport options, governments can encourage commuters to leave their cars at home, resulting in smoother traffic flow and a cleaner environment.
3. Resulting from/Stemming from
These phrases emphasize the origin or source of the cause:
Formula: Resulting from/Stemming from + noun phrase
Example:
- The company’s success is stemming from its innovative marketing strategies.
IELTS Speaking Example (Part 3):
Examiner: What are the main environmental problems facing your country?
Candidate: One major concern is air pollution, largely resulting from the high volume of traffic in our cities.
Traffic Congestion
Achieving a Higher Score
To elevate your writing and speaking, consider these tips:
- Variety is Key: Don’t overuse any phrase, even the alternatives provided. Strive for a mix of structures to demonstrate your language range.
- Formal vs. Informal: Be mindful of the tone. “Due to the fact that” might be suitable for formal essays but not for informal letters or casual conversations.
- Concision: Choose words that convey your meaning directly and avoid unnecessary complexity.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
1. Incorrect Preposition Use:
- Incorrect: Due to she was tired, she went to bed early.
- Correct: Because she was tired, she went to bed early.
Explanation: “Due to” is followed by a noun phrase, not a clause.
2. Redundancy:
- Redundant: The reason for the delay is due to the fact that the flight was overbooked.
- Concise: The delay was due to the flight being overbooked.
Explanation: Avoid using “the reason” and “due to” together, as it creates unnecessary repetition.
Conclusion
While “due to the fact that” is grammatically sound, it lacks conciseness and can make your IELTS responses sound overly formal. By incorporating a range of alternatives like “because,” “due to,” or “resulting from,” you can enhance the clarity and sophistication of your language, ultimately boosting your chances of achieving a higher band score. Remember to prioritize variety, conciseness, and appropriate tone in your writing and speaking.