“Is considered to” is a versatile phrase frequently encountered in academic and formal English. It indicates a widely held belief or perception about something. Understanding its nuances and applications is crucial for achieving a higher band score in the IELTS exam. This article will equip you with the knowledge and skills to confidently use “is considered to” and its variations across different sections of the IELTS.

Let’s analyze a few examples of how “is considered to” can appear in the IELTS:

• Speaking Part 2: “Describe a person who is considered to be a good role model in your society.” (Here, it emphasizes the social perception of the person’s role model status).
• Writing Task 2: “Some people believe that technology is considered to be the main driver of progress. To what extent do you agree or disagree?” (This highlights a commonly held view on technology’s impact).
• Listening Section: You might hear a statement like, “The Mona Lisa is considered to be one of the most valuable paintings in the world.” (This expresses a widely accepted opinion in the art world).

Understanding “Is Considered To” in IELTS

The phrase signifies that something is widely believed or perceived in a particular way. It suggests a general agreement or acceptance of an idea or fact. Mastery of this phrase enhances your ability to express opinions, discuss perspectives, and present information convincingly.

Grammar and Usage: A Detailed Breakdown

“Is considered to” typically follows this structure:

Subject + Be Verb (is/are/was/were) + considered to + be + adjective/noun phrase.

Let’s break it down:

• Subject: The person, thing, or idea being discussed.
• Be Verb: Connects the subject to the following phrase. Ensure subject-verb agreement.
• Considered to: The key phrase indicating a widely held belief or perception.
• Be (optional): Used when followed by an adjective.
• Adjective/Noun Phrase: Describes or identifies the subject based on the general perception.

ielts-exam-structure|IELTS Exam Structure|An infographic illustrating the different sections of the IELTS exam, including listening, reading, writing, and speaking.

Usage in Different IELTS Sections

• Writing Task 2: Use “is considered to” to introduce generally accepted facts or opinions, strengthening your arguments and demonstrating knowledge.

  • Example: “Climate change is considered to be one of the most pressing issues facing humanity today.”

• Speaking Part 3: Employ the phrase to express your viewpoint on a topic and discuss general perceptions.

  • Example: “Well, in my opinion, social media is considered to be both a blessing and a curse. It connects people but also has its drawbacks.”

• Listening and Reading: Be prepared to identify and understand the meaning of “is considered to” as it appears in passages and dialogues.

Elevating Your Language: Variations and Synonyms

To showcase a wider vocabulary and impress examiners, consider these variations and synonyms:

• Is deemed to be: “Online education is deemed to be a viable alternative to traditional learning.”
• Is recognized as: “Nelson Mandela is recognized as a global icon of peace.”
• Is widely regarded as: “Stephen Hawking is widely regarded as one of the most brilliant minds of our time.”

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Incorrect Tense: Using the wrong tense of the “be” verb. Always ensure it aligns with the tense of the overall sentence.

   • Incorrect: “In the past, smoking is considered to be fashionable.”
   • Correct: “In the past, smoking was considered to be fashionable.”

2. Missing “To Be”: Omitting “to be” when it’s necessary.

   • Incorrect: “The internet is considered a powerful tool.”
   • Correct: “The internet is considered to be a powerful tool.” (Especially necessary when followed by an adjective)

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “is considered to” significantly enhances the clarity and sophistication of your English. By understanding its grammatical structure, practicing its application, and exploring its variations, you can confidently tackle the IELTS exam and achieve your desired band score. Remember to pay attention to tense consistency, include “to be” when required, and explore synonyms to diversify your language.