The “cannot but” + infinitive structure is a sophisticated grammatical construction that can significantly enhance your IELTS score when used correctly. This powerful phrase expresses a sense of inevitability or compulsion, indicating that the subject has no choice but to perform the action described by the infinitive. Let’s delve into its usage and explore how you can leverage this structure to elevate your IELTS performance.
Understanding the “Cannot But” + Infinitive Structure
The “cannot but” + infinitive construction is used to express that something is unavoidable or that someone has no alternative but to do something. It’s a more formal and emphatic way of saying “can’t help but” or “have no choice but to.”
Formula and Grammar Rules
Formula: Subject + cannot but + infinitive
This structure is composed of:
- A subject
- The negative modal verb “cannot”
- The conjunction “but”
- An infinitive verb (without “to”)
It’s crucial to note that “cannot” is always used in its full form, not contracted to “can’t” in this structure.
Examples and Analysis
-
“I cannot but admire her determination.”
- Subject: I
- Cannot but: expresses inevitability
- Infinitive: admire
Analysis: The speaker feels compelled to admire someone’s determination.
-
“She cannot but feel proud of her achievements.”
- Subject: She
- Cannot but: indicates an unavoidable reaction
- Infinitive: feel
Analysis: The subject’s feeling of pride is presented as inevitable given her accomplishments.
-
“We cannot but agree with the expert’s opinion.”
- Subject: We
- Cannot but: shows unavoidable consensus
- Infinitive: agree
Analysis: The group finds it impossible not to agree with the expert.
-
“The committee cannot but recommend changes to the policy.”
- Subject: The committee
- Cannot but: implies a necessary action
- Infinitive: recommend
Analysis: The committee feels obligated to suggest policy modifications.
-
“One cannot but wonder about the long-term consequences.”
- Subject: One (impersonal)
- Cannot but: expresses an inevitable thought process
- Infinitive: wonder
Analysis: The sentence suggests that wondering about the consequences is unavoidable for anyone considering the situation.
Applying “Cannot But” in IELTS Writing
Using the “cannot but” structure effectively can elevate your writing from Band 7 to Band 8 or 9 by demonstrating advanced grammar knowledge and precise expression.
Task 2 Essay Example
Consider this excerpt from an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay on environmental issues:
“As we witness the alarming rate of climate change, we cannot but acknowledge the urgent need for global action. Governments and individuals alike cannot but take responsibility for their carbon footprint. While some may argue that individual actions are insignificant, one cannot but recognize that collective efforts can lead to substantial change.”
Analysis:
- The first use emphasizes the inevitability of recognizing the climate crisis.
- The second instance stresses the unavoidable responsibility of all parties.
- The third usage reinforces the importance of collective action.
Task 1 Report Example
In a Task 1 report describing a process:
“During the manufacturing process, quality control inspectors cannot but scrutinize every component meticulously. Even the smallest defect cannot but impact the final product’s reliability.”
Analysis:
- The first sentence highlights the essential nature of thorough inspection.
- The second emphasizes the inevitable consequences of defects.
Enhancing Your IELTS Speaking Performance
Incorporating “cannot but” into your IELTS Speaking responses can showcase your advanced language skills:
Example response to a question about career choices:
“When considering my future career, I cannot but reflect on the rapidly changing job market. Technology is advancing at such a pace that we cannot but adapt our skills continuously. As a result, I cannot but feel both excited and slightly anxious about the challenges ahead.”
Analysis:
- The structure is used to express inevitable thoughts, actions, and feelings related to career planning.
- It demonstrates a sophisticated level of English, likely to impress the examiner.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
-
Incorrect verb form:
- Wrong: “We cannot but to agree.” (Don’t use “to” with the infinitive)
- Correct: “We cannot but agree.”
-
Using contractions:
- Wrong: “I can’t but admire her work.”
- Correct: “I cannot but admire her work.”
-
Misplacing “but”:
- Wrong: “She cannot admire but her persistence.”
- Correct: “She cannot but admire her persistence.”
-
Overuse:
- While it’s an impressive structure, overusing it can make your speech or writing sound unnatural. Use it sparingly for maximum impact.
Alternative Expressions for Variety
To avoid overuse of “cannot but,” consider these alternatives:
-
“Have no choice but to”
Example: “We have no choice but to adapt to the new regulations.” -
“Can’t help but”
Example: “I can’t help but feel excited about the upcoming project.” -
“Be compelled to”
Example: “The government is compelled to take action on climate change.” -
“Be obliged to”
Example: “As responsible citizens, we are obliged to consider our environmental impact.”
Conclusion
Mastering the “cannot but” + infinitive structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance across all sections. By expressing inevitability or compulsion with this sophisticated construction, you demonstrate advanced language skills that can push your score into the higher bands. Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring it fits naturally within your speech or writing. Practice incorporating this structure into your IELTS preparation, particularly when discussing topics that involve strong convictions, unavoidable actions, or compelling circumstances. With consistent practice, you’ll find that you cannot but improve your command of English and your IELTS scores.