“Fortune favors the bold” is a timeless proverb that encourages taking risks in order to achieve success. This phrase is frequently used in English language tests, including the IELTS, as it embodies a perspective that can create enriching discussions and essays.
Bold (bɒld/): (adjective) willing to take risks; confident and courageous.
- Example: A bold decision is often required to overcome significant challenges.
Fortune (/ˈfɔːʧən/): (noun) chance or luck as an external, arbitrary force affecting human affairs.
- Example: The fortune of winning the lottery is highly coveted by many.
Brave (/breɪv/): (adjective) ready to face and endure danger or pain; showing courage.
- Example: Only the brave dare to enter the haunted house.
Daring (/ˈdɛərɪŋ/): (adjective) adventurous or audaciously bold.
- Example: He made a daring escape from the clutches of his enemies.
Courageous (/kəˈreɪʤəs/): (adjective) not deterred by danger or pain; brave.
- Example: The courageous firefighter saved the child from the burning building.
Intrepid (/ɪnˈtrɛpɪd/): (adjective) fearless; adventurous (often used rhetorically or humorously).
- Example: The intrepid explorer ventured into territories unknown to humankind.
Venturesome (/ˈvɛntʃəsəm/): (adjective) willing to take risks or embark on difficult or unusual courses of action.
- Example: A venturesome spirit is crucial for entrepreneurial success.
Audacious (/ɔˈdeɪʃəs/): (adjective) showing a willingness to take surprisingly bold risks.
- Example: Her audacious plan to start a company was initially met with skepticism.
Fearless (/ˈfɪərləs/): (adjective) lacking fear.
- Example: The fearless gladiator fought valiantly in the arena.
Gutsy (/ˈɡʌtsi/): (adjective) showing courage, determination, and spirit.
- Example: A gutsy move can often turn the tide in a competitive scenario.
The Meaning and Usage of “Fortune Favors the Bold”
“Fortune favors the bold” means that brave and adventurous individuals are often rewarded. This phrase conveys that taking calculated risks leads to positive outcomes.
Analyzing the Phrase:
- Fortune: This implies luck or success.
- Favors: To prefer or provide an advantage.
- The Bold: Those who are daring or brave.
Application in IELTS:
- Speaking Part 3: Discussing whether companies should take risks to innovate.
- Writing Task 2: Argumentative essays on the importance of courage in achieving success.
Example:
- Speaking: “In many industries, fortune favors the bold. Companies that took risks with new technologies, like Tesla, have reaped significant rewards.”
- Writing: “It is often said that fortune favors the bold, suggesting that individuals who show courage and take risks are more likely to succeed. This can be illustrated by the numerous entrepreneurs who dared to venture into unknown markets and achieved great success.”
Usage in IELTS Exam
Speaking Part 2 and Part 3
A common topic in IELTS Speaking involves discussing personal experiences or societal views on success, bravery, and risk-taking. Here are some examples to guide you:
Example 1: Speaking Part 2
- Describe a time you took a risk and succeeded.
- “I believe in the saying that fortune favors the bold. For example, I once decided to invest in a startup, which was a big risk. It turned out to be a lucrative decision, reaffirming my belief in taking calculated risks.”
Example 2: Speaking Part 3
- Do you think that taking risks is necessary for success?
- “Absolutely, in many walks of life, fortune favors the bold. History has shown us that those who dare to step out of their comfort zones often achieve great things, such as explorers who discovered new lands.”
Writing Task 1 and Task 2
The phrase can be used to emphasize courage and initiative in formal essays.
Example 1: Writing Task 1 (General Training Letter)
- Write a letter to your friend about starting a new business.
- “Dear Sam, I am writing to share some exciting news. Following the old adage that fortune favors the bold, I’ve decided to start my own business. It’s a daunting venture, but I believe it will be a rewarding experience.”
Example 2: Writing Task 2 (Argumentative Essay)
- “Some people think that to be successful, you need to be bold and take risks. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
- “Many argue that fortune favors the bold, believing that those who take risks are more likely to achieve success. This assertion holds merit, as countless success stories stem from courageous decisions. However, it is also essential to consider the role of strategic planning and perseverance.”
Combining with Other Keywords
Examples:
Curiosity killed the cat but fortune favors the bold.
- Example: “Although the saying ‘curiosity killed the cat’ may warn against unnecessary risks, it is also true that fortune favors the bold in many cases.”
Every dog has its day, especially when fortune favors the bold.
- Example: “Even though everyone gets their moment of glory, it is often those who take risks who win big, signifying that every dog has its day when fortune favors the bold.”
Idioms and Expressions Related to Boldness:
“Break the ice”: To initiate conversation in a social setting.
- Example: “It takes a bold person to break the ice at a formal gathering.”
“Throw caution to the wind”: To take a risk without worrying about the consequences.
- Example: “Sometimes, achieving success requires you to throw caution to the wind.”
“Nothing ventured, nothing gained”: Without taking a risk, you cannot achieve.
- Example: “I decided to apply for the scholarship, thinking ‘nothing ventured, nothing gained.'”
“Take the plunge”: To commit oneself to a course of action without necessarily knowing the outcome.
- Example: “I finally took the plunge and started my own business.”
“Leap of faith”: To believe or do something based on hope rather than evidence or logical reasoning.
- Example: “Starting a company was a leap of faith, but it paid off tremendously.”
Fortune Favors the Bold
Conclusion
Understanding and using idiomatic expressions like “Fortune favors the bold” can significantly enrich your IELTS vocabulary and give you an edge in achieving higher scores. These expressions are not only applicable in various sections of the IELTS exam but also reflect a deep understanding of English phraseology. Practice incorporating these into your speech and writing to become more articulate and expressive.
For more insights and phrases, consider reading about other idiomatic expressions like curiosity killed the cat and every dog has its day. Understanding these will provide a well-rounded approach to mastering English for IELTS.
Remember, achieving excellence in the IELTS exam often requires a bold approach to learning and using new vocabulary effectively. Good luck!