Many English learners preparing for IELTS encounter sentences like “So remarkable was his achievement that it was celebrated” and wonder about the unusual word order. This structure, while less common, demonstrates a sophisticated grammatical tool that can enhance your writing and speaking, potentially boosting your band score. Let’s break it down and explore how it works.
For instance:
- Speaking (Part 2): “My grandfather was a fascinating man. So captivating were his stories that everyone would gather around to listen.”
- Writing (Task 2): “The impact of climate change is undeniable. So severe are its consequences that immediate action is required.”
In each example, the sentence begins with “So + adjective/adverb” followed by a subject-verb inversion. This inversion creates emphasis and a sense of drama, highlighting the intensity of the adjective or adverb.
Unpacking the “So…That” Inversion
This structure uses a grammatical tool called inversion, specifically focusing on “so…that” sentences. In standard English, we’d say “His achievement was so remarkable that it was celebrated.” However, inverting the subject and verb after “so” adds emphasis and a touch of formality.
The Formula for Success
Here’s the structure broken down:
So + adjective/adverb + auxiliary verb (be/do/have) + subject + main verb
Let’s apply this to different scenarios:
- Simple Present/Past: So impressive is her dedication that she practices daily.
- Present/Past Continuous: So rapidly were they progressing that they exceeded expectations.
- Present/Past Perfect: So thoroughly had he researched the topic that he impressed the examiners.
Mastering IELTS Writing with Inversion
In IELTS Writing (especially Task 2), using inversion can elevate your style and demonstrate a wider range of grammatical structures.
Example:
Standard: “The pollution problem in cities is very serious, and it requires immediate attention.”
With Inversion: “So serious is the pollution problem in cities that it requires immediate attention.”
The second sentence, using inversion, is more impactful and demonstrates a stronger command of English grammar.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
While inversion is a valuable tool, using it incorrectly can lower your score. Here are some common errors:
- Incorrect Word Order: “So tired was he that slept for ten hours” is incorrect. The correct order is “So tired was he that he slept for ten hours.”
- Overuse: Using inversion too often can make your writing sound unnatural. Reserve it for moments where you want to create emphasis.
- Informal Context: While acceptable in Writing Task 2, avoid inversion in informal writing tasks like letters to friends.
Conclusion:
Mastering the “so…that” inversion can significantly enhance your IELTS writing and speaking, showcasing a sophisticated understanding of English grammar. Remember to use it strategically, practice the correct word order, and avoid overuse. By incorporating this structure effectively, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a higher band score!