The phrase “no matter what happens, stay true to yourself” encapsulates an important life lesson that resonates deeply with many people. While it might not seem directly related to grammar, understanding its underlying structure and how to use similar expressions can be beneficial for your IELTS writing and speaking scores. This article delves into the grammatical components of this phrase, explores its variations, and provides you with the tools to integrate similar expressions into your IELTS responses naturally and effectively.
For instance, you might be asked to describe a challenging experience in the IELTS Speaking test. You could say:
No matter how difficult the situation became, I knew I had to persevere and be true to my principles.
Or, in the IELTS Writing Task 2, discussing the importance of authenticity, you could write:
Regardless of societal pressures, individuals should prioritize staying true to their values and beliefs.
In both examples, the highlighted phrases are used to emphasize unwavering commitment to one’s true self despite challenges or external influences.
Deconstructing “No Matter What Happens, Stay True to Yourself”
Meaning and Importance in IELTS
This phrase emphasizes resilience, self-belief, and the significance of maintaining one’s integrity in the face of adversity. It reflects a strong sense of personal values and the determination to uphold them. While it might not be a common phrase in IELTS prompts, understanding its essence can enrich your responses in various topics related to personal growth, challenges, and ethical dilemmas.
Grammatical Structure
- “No matter what happens”: This is a subordinate clause expressing concession, meaning it acknowledges a potential obstacle but diminishes its importance.
- “No matter” acts as a conjunction, introducing the concession.
- “What” functions as a relative pronoun, referring to any possible event.
- “Stay true to yourself”: This is the main clause and conveys the key message of remaining authentic.
- “Stay” is an imperative verb, making the statement a piece of advice or encouragement.
- “True to yourself” is a phrase acting as a subject complement, further explaining the state of “staying.”
Mastering Similar Constructions
Formula and Explanation
The general formula for this type of construction is:
Conjunction + Clause (expressing a potential obstacle) + Main Clause (expressing the desired action or state)
Here are some common conjunctions used in this structure:
- No matter what/who/where/when/how: These are used to express that something will remain the same regardless of the circumstance.
- Regardless of: Similar to “no matter,” this emphasizes that something is not affected by external factors.
- Even if/though: These conjunctions acknowledge a potential challenge while still highlighting the main point.
Applications in IELTS
Let’s see how you can apply these structures in different sections of the IELTS exam:
Speaking Part 2: Describe a time you faced a difficult decision.
Even though I was afraid of the unknown, I decided to move to a new country to pursue my dreams.
Writing Task 2: Do you agree or disagree that success is more important than happiness?
Some may argue that success is paramount. However, no matter how successful one becomes, true fulfillment stems from pursuing one’s passions and finding happiness.
Listening:
You might hear phrases like these in the listening sections:
“He was determined to finish the race, no matter how much it hurt.“
Stay true to yourself
Achieving Higher Band Scores
To score higher, showcase your ability to use a variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary:
- Instead of repeating “no matter,” use synonyms: “regardless of,” “irrespective of,” “in spite of,” “despite.”
- Vary your sentence structure: Use a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences to enhance the flow and sophistication of your language.
For example:
Despite the numerous challenges I encountered while starting my own business, I remained committed to my vision. I knew that, regardless of the outcome, the experience would be invaluable.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect pronoun agreement: Ensure that the pronouns in the main clause agree with the subject.
- Run-on sentences: When combining multiple clauses, use appropriate punctuation (commas, semicolons) to maintain clarity.
Incorrect: No matter what obstacles life throws your way stay true to yourself.
Correct: No matter what obstacles life throws your way, stay true to yourself.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of concessive clauses and phrases like “no matter what happens” can significantly enhance your IELTS responses. By understanding the grammar and practicing its application, you can express yourself more fluently and demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, ultimately leading to a higher band score. Remember, consistent practice and familiarizing yourself with diverse grammatical tools are key to success in the IELTS exam.