When preparing for the IELTS exam, it’s crucial to enrich your vocabulary with idiomatic expressions and less common phrases—one of which is “long in the tooth”. Understanding and using such phrases correctly can help you score higher, especially in the speaking and writing sections. In this article, we will dive deep into the phrase “long in the tooth,” analyze its usage, and provide you with practical examples and exercises to master it.
What Does “Long in the Tooth” Mean?
The phrase “long in the tooth” ([lɒŋ ɪn ðə tuːθ], adjective) is an idiom used to describe someone or something that is old, often suggesting that the individual or object may no longer be as effective or suitable as it once was. This expression originates from the observation that horses’ teeth appear to grow longer as they age.
Synonyms
- Aged ([eɪdʒd], adjective): Having lived for a long time.
- Elderly ([ˈɛldərli], adjective): Old or advanced in years.
- Past one’s prime ([pɑːst wʌnz praɪm], phrase): Having passed the peak of one’s abilities.
- Old-fashioned ([oʊld-fæʃnd], adjective): Out of style or no longer modern.
- Over the hill ([ˈoʊvər ðə hɪl], phrase): Beyond the peak of youth or effectiveness.
Antonyms
- Young ([jʌŋ], adjective): Having lived or existed for only a short time.
- Youthful ([ˈjuːθfʊl], adjective): Characteristic of one who is young.
- New ([njuː], adjective): Recently made or acquired.
- Modern ([ˈmɒdən], adjective): Relating to the present or recent times.
- Contemporary ([kənˈtɛmpərəri], adjective): Belonging to or occurring in the present.
Examples in Sentences
- “John may be a bit long in the tooth for the job, but his experience is invaluable.”
- “That software is long in the tooth; it’s time we upgraded to something more current.”
- “While some consider printed books long in the tooth, many readers still prefer them over digital versions.”
- “The politician is often criticized for being long in the tooth, suggesting it’s time for new leadership.”
- “Despite being long in the tooth, the old dog still managed to learn new tricks.”
The Phrase in IELTS: Frequency and Relevance
In the IELTS exam, candidates are often required to discuss various topics that may include technology, education, and social changes—areas where the idiom “long in the tooth” can be very useful. This expression, while informal, can show a high level of language proficiency when used appropriately in both the speaking and writing sections.
Usage in IELTS Sections
Task 2 Writing Example
Consider an essay discussing the evolution of technology:
Topic: Some people believe that technological devices quickly become obsolete. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sample Sentence: “While many devices become long in the tooth within a few years, others, such as desktop computers, have remained relevant for much longer.”
Speaking Test Example
In the speaking test, a topic might be about changes in communication:
Question: How have communication methods changed over the years?
Sample Answer: “Traditional postal services have become rather long in the tooth compared to the instant messaging apps we have today.”
Combining “Long in the Tooth” with Related Vocabulary
To further enhance your responses, you might want to combine this phrase with other relevant vocabulary:
- Old-fashioned: “My grandmother still uses an old-fashioned typewriter, which many might consider long in the tooth.”
- Past one’s prime: “Many argue that printed newspapers are past their prime and long in the tooth in an age dominated by digital news.”
Related Idiomatic Expressions
Learning similar idiomatic expressions can expand your vocabulary and help you sound more fluent:
- Over the hill: “Many consider him to be over the hill, yet he continues to perform remarkably well.”
- Like pulling teeth: “Getting my grandfather to use a smartphone was like pulling teeth.”
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- Past its peak: “The factory’s equipment is clearly past its peak and needs updating.”
Conclusion
Understanding and using idiomatic expressions like “long in the tooth” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. These phrases not only enrich your vocabulary but also demonstrate a higher level of English proficiency. Be sure to practice integrating them smoothly into your writing and speaking responses to impress your examiners.
By focusing on the provided examples and incorporating these idioms naturally into your responses, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle various IELTS topics effectively. Don’t forget to check out related resources to deepen your understanding further, such as exploring why certain phrases like “over the hill” share similar meanings. Learn more here.