“On The Contrary” is a phrase that often trips up IELTS test-takers, despite its seemingly simple nature. Understanding its proper usage can significantly enhance your coherence and cohesion in both writing and speaking sections. Let’s delve into its nuances and equip you to wield it confidently in your IELTS exam.
Understanding “On the Contrary”
“On the contrary” signals a strong disagreement or contradiction to a previous statement. It emphasizes a stark contrast in viewpoints or information.
Frequency in IELTS: While not overly frequent, using “on the contrary” appropriately demonstrates a strong command of discourse markers and boosts your grammatical range score.
Examples in IELTS contexts:
- Speaking: “Many believe technology isolates us. On the contrary, I find it connects us globally.”
- Writing Task 2: “Some argue that space exploration is wasteful. On the contrary, the scientific advancements from such endeavors are invaluable.”
Usage and Grammatical Structure
“On the contrary” is generally used:
- To refute a preceding statement: It introduces a contrasting idea, suggesting the previous statement is incorrect.
- To introduce a surprising or unexpected fact: It highlights an unexpected turn of events or information.
Grammatically:
- It’s often used as a sentence adverbial, meaning it modifies the entire sentence rather than a specific word.
- It’s typically followed by a comma when used at the beginning of a sentence.
Formula:
Statement suggesting one idea. On the contrary, statement presenting the opposing idea.
On the Contrary Example
Applying “On the Contrary” in IELTS
Writing Task 2
Example:
“It is argued that globalization leads to cultural homogenization. On the contrary, it can foster diversity by exposing people to a myriad of cultures and traditions.”
Analysis: The first sentence presents a common argument about globalization. The phrase “on the contrary” introduces the writer’s contrasting viewpoint, emphasizing the potential for cultural enrichment through globalization.
Speaking Part 3
Example:
Examiner: “Do you think traditional art forms will become obsolete?”
Candidate: “Not necessarily. Some might fade, but others will adapt. On the contrary, the digital age provides new platforms and tools for traditional art to flourish.”
Analysis: The candidate initially acknowledges the possibility of some traditional art forms declining. However, they use “on the contrary” to pivot to a more optimistic view, highlighting how technology can actually benefit traditional art.
Enhancing Your Score with Similar Phrases
To showcase a wider range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, consider these alternatives to “on the contrary”:
- Conversely
- In contrast
- Quite the opposite
- On the other hand (use this phrase cautiously as it often implies a comparison rather than a direct contradiction)
Remember to choose the phrase that best fits the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Using “on the contrary” when the ideas are not completely opposite: This weakens your argument and shows a lack of precise language control.
- Using “on the contrary” too frequently: Overusing any phrase, even a sophisticated one, can make your writing or speaking sound repetitive.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “on the contrary” and its synonyms equips you with a valuable tool to express contrasting ideas effectively. This, in turn, enhances your coherence and cohesion, demonstrating a higher level of English proficiency to the IELTS examiner. Remember to practice using these phrases in various contexts to solidify your understanding and achieve your desired band score.
