Many IELTS candidates struggle with expressing specific opinions or viewpoints effectively. “As far as… is concerned” is a fantastic phrase to elevate your speaking and writing, demonstrating a strong command of grammar and vocabulary. Let’s explore how this phrase can help you achieve a Band 7 or higher!
Here are some examples of how “as far as…is concerned” can be used in different sections of the IELTS:
Speaking Part 3:
- “As far as environmental protection is concerned, I believe stricter regulations are necessary to combat climate change.”
Writing Task 2:
- “While technology has brought many benefits, as far as employment is concerned, automation poses a significant threat to certain industries.”
Listening Section 2:
- “The new city development plan will focus on sustainable living. As far as transportation is concerned, the emphasis will be on cycling and public transport.”
In each of these examples, “as far as…is concerned” helps to narrow down the topic and introduce a specific viewpoint. This phrase adds sophistication and clarity to your language.
Understanding “As Far As… Is Concerned”
This phrase is used to single out a particular aspect of a topic and express an opinion or fact related to that specific aspect. Think of it as a way to “zoom in” on one part of a broader subject. It adds a touch of formality and precision to your language.
Grammar and Usage
Formula:
As far as [Specific Topic] is concerned, [Your Opinion/Statement]
Breakdown:
- As far as: This signals that you’re about to focus on a particular aspect of something.
- [Specific Topic]: This is the specific area you want to discuss.
- is concerned: This is a fixed part of the expression.
- [Your Opinion/Statement]: This is where you state your viewpoint, argument, or fact related to the specific topic.
IELTS Application
Speaking:
- Use it in Part 3 discussions to provide nuanced answers and demonstrate your ability to focus on specific aspects of a topic.
Example:
Examiner: “What are the benefits of living in a big city?”
You: “Well, there are many. As far as entertainment is concerned, big cities offer a much wider variety of options compared to smaller towns.”
Writing:
- In Task 2 essays, this phrase helps structure your arguments by clearly separating your points. It’s particularly useful in the introduction to outline the scope of your essay.
Example:
“As far as economic growth is concerned, technology plays a pivotal role in driving innovation and creating new job opportunities.”
Listening and Reading:
- Be prepared to identify this phrase in these sections. Understanding its use will help you grasp the speaker’s or writer’s intended meaning, especially when they are presenting different viewpoints or focusing on specific aspects of a topic.
Achieving a Higher Score
- Varied Vocabulary: Don’t overuse the phrase. Use synonyms like “regarding,” “with respect to,” or “in terms of” to showcase your lexical range.
- Complex Structures: Integrate “as far as… is concerned” into more complex sentence structures. For instance:
- “As far as environmental conservation is concerned, although individual efforts are important, government policies play a more significant role.”
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect Prepositions: Be careful not to use prepositions other than “as” before “far.”
- Subject-Verb Agreement: Ensure the verb following “is concerned” agrees with the subject (the specific topic).
Incorrect: As far as traffic congestion are concerned…
Correct: As far as traffic congestion is concerned…
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “as far as… is concerned” can significantly enhance the clarity and sophistication of your IELTS speaking and writing. Remember to use it strategically, vary your language, and avoid common mistakes. With practice, you’ll be able to incorporate this phrase naturally and confidently into your IELTS responses, boosting your chances of achieving your desired band score. Now that you’ve learned about this phrase, how would you use it in your own IELTS preparation? Remember, consistent practice is key!