The “enable + object + to + infinitive” structure is a powerful and versatile grammatical tool that frequently appears in IELTS exams. Mastering this structure can significantly enhance your language proficiency and boost your IELTS scores across all sections. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this construction and explore how to use it effectively in your IELTS preparation and exam.
Understanding the “Enable + Object + To + Infinitive” Structure
The “enable + object + to + infinitive” structure is used to express that something makes it possible for someone or something to do a particular action. It’s a common construction in academic and professional contexts, making it particularly relevant for IELTS candidates.
Formula:
Enable + Object + To + Base Form of Verb
Let’s examine some examples to better understand this structure:
- “The new software enables employees to work remotely.”
- “Advanced technology enables scientists to explore the depths of the ocean.”
- “Regular exercise enables the body to maintain a healthy weight.”
- “This scholarship will enable me to pursue my dream of studying abroad.”
- “The government’s policies enable small businesses to compete in the global market.”
In each of these sentences, we can see how the structure allows us to clearly express the relationship between an enabling factor and a resulting action or capability.
Enable structure diagram
Significance in IELTS and Frequency of Appearance
The “enable + object + to + infinitive” structure is highly valued in IELTS for several reasons:
- Complexity: It demonstrates a higher level of grammatical proficiency, which is crucial for achieving higher band scores.
- Clarity: It allows for precise expression of cause-and-effect relationships, a key skill in academic and professional communication.
- Versatility: This structure can be applied across various topics and in different sections of the IELTS test.
In terms of frequency, you’re likely to encounter this structure in:
- Reading passages: Especially in academic texts discussing technological advancements, scientific discoveries, or policy impacts.
- Listening sections: Often in lectures or discussions about innovations or societal changes.
- Writing tasks: Particularly useful in Task 2 essays when discussing solutions, impacts, or developments.
- Speaking test: Valuable for expressing opinions about enablers of change or progress in society.
Applying the Structure in Different IELTS Sections
IELTS Writing
In Writing Task 2, this structure can be particularly effective when discussing solutions or explaining cause-and-effect relationships. For example:
“Implementing stricter regulations enables governments to control pollution more effectively, which in turn enables cities to improve air quality.”
This sentence demonstrates a sophisticated use of the structure, linking multiple ideas coherently.
IELTS Speaking
In the Speaking test, you can use this structure to express personal experiences or opinions:
“Learning a new language has enabled me to connect with people from different cultures, which has enabled me to broaden my perspective on global issues.”
This response showcases the ability to use the structure naturally in conversation, a trait highly valued by examiners.
IELTS Reading and Listening
While you won’t be actively producing this structure in Reading and Listening tests, recognizing it can aid in comprehension. For instance, in a passage about technological advancements, you might encounter:
“The development of artificial intelligence enables machines to perform tasks that previously required human intelligence, which in turn enables businesses to automate complex processes.”
Understanding this structure helps you quickly grasp the main ideas and relationships presented in the text or audio.
Advanced Usage for Higher Band Scores
To aim for higher band scores (7 and above), consider these advanced applications:
Combining with other complex structures:
“Not only does this technology enable researchers to analyze data more quickly, but it also allows them to uncover patterns that were previously undetectable.”Using in passive constructions:
“Patients are enabled to recover more quickly through the use of this innovative treatment.”Incorporating into conditional sentences:
“If implemented correctly, these policies would enable developing countries to compete more effectively in the global market.”Employing with perfect tenses:
“The recent advancements in renewable energy have enabled many countries to reduce their carbon emissions significantly.”Using in reported speech:
“The scientists reported that the new method had enabled them to observe subatomic particles more accurately than ever before.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Incorrect verb form after ‘to’:
- Incorrect: “This software enables users to improving productivity.”
- Correct: “This software enables users to improve productivity.”
Omitting ‘to’:
- Incorrect: “The scholarship enabled her study abroad.”
- Correct: “The scholarship enabled her to study abroad.”
Confusing ‘enable’ with ‘allow’ or ‘permit’:
While these verbs are similar, ‘enable’ implies providing the means or ability to do something, not just permission.- Less precise: “The new law allows companies to reduce emissions.”
- More precise: “The new technology enables companies to reduce emissions.”
Overuse:
While it’s a useful structure, overusing it can make your writing or speaking repetitive. Vary your language with synonymous expressions like “make it possible for,” “facilitate,” or “empower.”Incorrect object placement:
- Incorrect: “This enables to students learn faster.”
- Correct: “This enables students to learn faster.”
Conclusion
Mastering the “enable + object + to + infinitive” structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance across all sections. It allows for clear, sophisticated expression of ideas, particularly when discussing advancements, solutions, or cause-and-effect relationships. Practice incorporating this structure into your writing and speaking, being mindful of common errors. Remember, while it’s a valuable tool, it should be used judiciously alongside a variety of other complex structures to demonstrate the full range of your language abilities.
To further solidify your understanding, try creating sentences using this structure related to topics commonly found in IELTS, such as environmental policy, technological advancements, or educational reforms. This practice will not only improve your grasp of the structure but also enhance your ability to discuss complex topics fluently in the IELTS exam.