“Provided that” is a conjunction used to express a condition. It’s a useful phrase to know for the IELTS exam, as it can help you to express your ideas in a clear and concise way. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the meaning of “provided that,” explore its synonyms, and look at how to use it correctly in your writing and speaking. We will analyze real IELTS examples and highlight common mistakes to help you achieve a higher band score.
Understanding “Provided That”
“Provided that” implies that something can happen or be true only if a specific condition is met. It is similar in meaning to “on the condition that,” “as long as,” “if,” and “only if.” You’ll often encounter “provided that” in Part 2 of the IELTS Writing exam when you need to discuss hypothetical situations or outline conditions.
Here are some examples of how “provided that” can be used:
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Speaking Part 3: “Governments should invest in renewable energy sources, provided that it doesn’t lead to significantly higher taxes for the average citizen.” This sentence argues for renewable energy investment but establishes a clear condition regarding tax implications.
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Writing Task 2: “Some people believe that children should be allowed to use smartphones in school. Others argue that they should be banned. While smartphones can offer educational benefits, I believe they should be prohibited during school hours, provided that exceptions can be made for students with specific learning needs.” This example uses “provided that” to concede a point while still arguing for a general rule.
Grammatical Structure and Usage
“Provided that” introduces a dependent clause, which means it cannot stand alone as a sentence. It needs to be paired with an independent clause that expresses the main idea.
Formula:
Independent Clause + , + Provided that + Dependent Clause
Example:
International travel can be an enriching experience, provided that you are respectful of local customs.
Let’s break down the grammar:
- Independent Clause: International travel can be an enriching experience (This clause can stand alone as a sentence)
- Dependent Clause: provided that you are respectful of local customs. (This clause cannot stand alone and depends on the independent clause for meaning).
Using “Provided That” in IELTS
Writing Task 1 (Describing Graphs and Charts):
While not as common as in Task 2, you might use “provided that” when making predictions or describing potential trends:
“The demand for electric cars is predicted to increase steadily over the next decade, provided that charging infrastructure continues to improve.”
Speaking Part 2 (Individual Long Turn):
When describing a person, place, or experience, you can use “provided that” to set conditions:
“I love trying new restaurants, provided that they offer vegetarian options.”
Synonyms and Variations
You can demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary by using synonyms for “provided that”:
- As long as: “As long as you study diligently, you will pass the exam.”
- On the condition that: “He agreed to help on the condition that he would be paid fairly.”
- If: “You can borrow my car if you promise to drive carefully.”
- Only if: “The project will be successful only if everyone contributes their best effort.”
Important: While these phrases are similar, they might not be interchangeable in all contexts. Pay close attention to the specific requirements of the question.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Comma Splice: Remember to use a comma after the independent clause when it comes before “provided that.”
Incorrect: Students can benefit from online learning provided that they have access to a reliable internet connection.
Correct: Students can benefit from online learning, provided that they have access to a reliable internet connection. -
Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure that the verbs in both clauses agree with their respective subjects.
Incorrect: The government should provide financial assistance to those in need, provided that it do not lead to higher taxes.
Correct: The government should provide financial assistance to those in need, provided that it does not lead to higher taxes.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “provided that” and its synonyms is a valuable asset for achieving a high band score in the IELTS exam. By understanding its meaning, grammatical structure, and how to avoid common mistakes, you can confidently express conditional statements and impress the examiner with your range of vocabulary. For more information on other useful conjunctions and grammatical structures, check out the resources available on IELTS.net. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!