As an IELTS candidate, improving your vocabulary is crucial for getting a higher score, especially understanding idiomatic expressions. In this article, we’ll dive into “second wind,” a fascinating idiom, and explore how it and related terms can be used in your IELTS exam.
What is “Second Wind”?
Definition and Pronunciation
- Second wind (noun) /ˌsekənd ˈwɪnd/: The renewed energy or endurance to continue an activity after reaching a point of exhaustion.
Example:
- After several hours of studying, I finally got my second wind and managed to finish the essay.
Synonyms and Antonyms
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Revitalization (noun) /rɪˌvaɪtəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/: Renewal of energy or strength.
- Example: The brief walk led to a revitalization of my spirits.
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Resurgence (noun) /rɪˈsɜːdʒəns/: An increase or revival after a period of little activity.
- Example: The athlete experienced a resurgence in the final lap.
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Renewal (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəl/: State of being made new, fresh, or strong again.
- Example: The company’s renewal process brought in significant investments.
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Exhaustion (antonym) (noun) /ɪɡˈzɔːstʃən/: Extreme fatigue.
- Example: The long hike resulted in sheer exhaustion.
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Fatigue (antonym) (noun) /fəˈtiːɡ/: Extreme tiredness resulting from mental or physical exertion.
- Example: Continuous work led to fatigue.
Usage in IELTS Exam
Popularity
Idiomatic expressions like “second wind” frequently appear in both the speaking and writing sections of the IELTS exam. They demonstrate your ability to use the language naturally, like a native speaker, and can boost your score for lexical resource and coherence.
Writing Sample
Task 2 Question Example:
- Some people believe that physical exercise is essential for maintaining mental health. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Sample Answer:
Oftentimes, individuals who engage in physical exercise find a second wind that helps them push through mental barriers. This phenomenon, where renewed energy kicks in after initial exhaustion, illustrates how physical activity can indeed rejuvenate the mind, boosting overall mental well-being.
Speaking Sample
Part 2 Topic Example:
- Describe a time when you felt exhausted but managed to complete your task.
Sample Answer:
There was a time during my final year of university when I had to submit my thesis. I was working nonstop, and just when I felt I couldn’t continue, a second wind hit me. This surge of energy allowed me to complete my work on time.
Combining “Second Wind” with Other Words
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Caught a second wind: To experience a renewed sense of energy or motivation.
- Example: After taking a short break, I caught a second wind and continued with my studies.
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Boost of second wind: Sudden increase of energy.
- Example: By drinking a cup of coffee, I got a boost of second wind to finish the report.
Related Idioms
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Hit the wall: To reach a point of physical or mental exhaustion.
- Example: During the marathon, I felt like I hit the wall, but then I got my second wind.
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Burn the midnight oil: To stay up late working or studying.
- Example: I had to burn the midnight oil to complete the project, but I finally caught a second wind.
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Pull an all-nighter: To stay up all night to work on a project or study.
- Example: I pulled an all-nighter for my exam preparation and was lucky to get a second wind just before the test.
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Push through: To continue with effort despite difficulties.
- Example: It was tough, but I managed to push through the exhaustion and catch a second wind.
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Catch one’s breath: To rest for a moment in order to be able to continue an activity.
- Example: After a short break to catch my breath, I found my second wind and kept going.
Conclusion
Understanding and using idiomatic expressions like “second wind” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance, particularly in speaking and writing sections. Practice using these phrases in your daily conversation and writing to become more familiar and comfortable with them. Remember, demonstrating a natural use of idiomatic expressions shows examiners your advanced proficiency in English. For an additional challenge, try incorporating synonyms and related idioms into your practice tests. Good luck!