“So stunning was the view that I took a photo.” This sentence, while grammatically sound, might seem a bit unusual at first glance. That’s because it uses a structure called inversion, which can make your writing more impactful and sophisticated, especially in the IELTS exam. Let’s break down this structure and explore how you can use it to achieve a higher band score.
Here are some examples of how this structure can be used in different sections of the IELTS exam:
- Speaking (Part 2): “The highlight of my trip was definitely the hike. So breathtaking was the view from the summit that I stood there speechless for minutes.“
- Writing (Task 2): ” Some argue that technology brings isolation. So pervasive is this view that it’s easy to forget the connecting power of the internet.”
- Listening (Multiple Choice): You might encounter this structure in a lecture or conversation, requiring you to understand the cause-effect relationship it conveys.
Understanding Inversion
Inversion is a grammatical tool where the normal word order of a sentence is reversed. Instead of the typical Subject-Verb-Object order, we start with an adverbial phrase or an adjective, followed by the verb, and then the subject.
Why use inversion?
- Emphasis: It emphasizes the adverb or adjective at the beginning, creating a dramatic effect.
- Formal Tone: It lends a more formal and literary tone to your writing.
- Variety: It introduces sentence structure variety, which is crucial for achieving a higher IELTS score.
The “So…that…” Construction
This specific inversion structure follows a pattern:
So + adjective/adverb + auxiliary verb (was/were/is/are/do/does/did) + subject + main verb…
For example:
- So exhausted was he that he fell asleep immediately.
- So quickly did she run that she won the race easily.
Applying the Structure
1. Expressing Cause and Effect:
The “so…that…” structure highlights a strong cause-and-effect relationship. “So stunning was the view” clearly indicates that the stunning view was the reason why the speaker took a photo.
2. Using Synonyms and Variations:
To demonstrate a wider vocabulary range in your IELTS exam, try using synonyms for “stunning” and different verbs that fit the context:
- So captivating was the performance that I lost track of time.
- So enchanting was the music that it brought tears to my eyes.
3. Other Inversion Structures:
Similar inversion patterns can be used with other adverbs and conjunctions like:
- Never have I seen such a beautiful sunset.
- Under no circumstances should you open this door.
Mastering Inversion for IELTS Success
IELTS Writing:
- Task 1 (Describing Trends): “So dramatic was the increase in sales that the company had to hire additional staff.”
- Task 2 (Expressing Opinions): “So important is education that governments should invest heavily in it.”
IELTS Speaking:
- Part 1 (Introduction & Interview): “So much do I enjoy reading that I visit the library every week.”
- Part 3 (Two-way Discussion): “So essential is teamwork in today’s workplace that companies actively seek candidates with strong collaborative skills.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
-
Incorrect Verb Order: Remember the auxiliary verb comes before the subject.
- Incorrect: So beautiful the sunset was.
- Correct: So beautiful was the sunset.
-
Overuse: While effective, don’t overuse inversion. It’s best reserved for specific instances where you want to create emphasis or formality.
Conclusion
Mastering grammatical structures like inversion can significantly enhance your IELTS score. Not only does it demonstrate a sophisticated grasp of English grammar, but it also adds variety and impact to your writing and speaking. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts related to the IELTS exam to build confidence and fluency.