“More often than not” is a useful phrase to express something happens frequently. Mastering it can significantly boost your vocabulary score and fluency. Let’s delve into its usage and explore how to incorporate it effectively in your IELTS writing and speaking.
Here are some examples of how you can use “more often than not” in IELTS:
Speaking:
- “More often than not, I prefer to study in the morning when it’s quiet.” (This sentence shows preference and frequency)
Writing:
- “While technology offers undeniable benefits, more often than not, it is misused, leading to negative consequences.” (This sentence presents a contrasting viewpoint)
Understanding “More Often Than Not”
This phrase acts as an adverb, meaning “usually” or “in most cases”. It’s more formal and sophisticated than “usually” and demonstrates a wider vocabulary range.
Grammatical Structure and Usage
“More often than not” functions as an adverbial phrase. Here’s a breakdown:
Structure: More often (comparative adjective) + than (conjunction) + not (adverb)
Position: It is flexible and can be placed:
- At the beginning of a sentence: “More often than not, children learn to read by the age of six.”
- In the middle of a sentence: “Traffic in the city is, more often than not, congested during rush hour.”
- At the end of a sentence: “He’s late for work, more often than not.”
Using “More Often Than Not” for a Band 7+
To achieve a higher band score, consider these tips:
- Vary your language: Don’t overuse “more often than not”. Use synonyms like “generally”, “typically”, “predominantly” or “in the majority of cases.”
- Context is key: Use this phrase when discussing trends, probabilities, or habitual actions.
- Demonstrate control: Ensure the sentence structure when using this phrase is grammatically accurate and demonstrates a good command of English.
Examples in IELTS Writing and Speaking
Writing Task 2:
“Some people believe that social media has a positive impact on our lives, while others argue that it is detrimental. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Example: “More often than not, social media platforms are used to share trivial information, contributing to a decline in meaningful communication and critical thinking skills.”
Speaking Part 2:
“Describe a time when you had to use technology to solve a problem.”
Example: “My computer crashed unexpectedly, and I was worried about losing important files. More often than not, I back up my data, but I wasn’t sure if I had done it recently…”
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
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Incorrect word order: Avoid placing “not” before “than”.
Incorrect: He is late for work more not than often.
Correct: He is late for work more often than not. -
Overusing the phrase: Using it repetitively makes your writing sound dull and lacks sophistication.
Conclusion
“More often than not” is a valuable phrase for IELTS test-takers to enhance their vocabulary and express frequency effectively. By understanding its grammatical function, exploring various examples, and avoiding common errors, you can confidently incorporate this phrase to achieve a higher band score. Remember to practice using it in context and vary your language to showcase your command of English.