Many IELTS students strive to impress examiners with complex vocabulary. However, using less common phrases incorrectly can actually harm your score. One such phrase is “it amalgamates that,” which raises eyebrows in native English. Let’s explore why this phrase is problematic and discover alternative expressions to elevate your IELTS writing and speaking.
Understanding the Issue with “It Amalgamates That”
“Amalgamate” means to combine or unite different elements into a whole. While grammatically possible, using “it amalgamates that” to introduce a clause is unnatural and unnecessarily verbose. Native English speakers would rarely, if ever, use this construction.
Example:
- Incorrect: It amalgamates that climate change is a pressing global issue.
- Correct: Climate change is undeniably a pressing global issue.
The incorrect example feels awkward and convoluted. The corrected version conveys the same meaning directly and concisely, which is crucial for IELTS success.
Achieving Clarity and Natural Language in IELTS
Instead of “it amalgamates that,” consider these clear and concise alternatives:
1. Simple Subject-Verb Structure:
This is the most straightforward and often the most effective approach.
- Example: Rising sea levels pose a significant threat to coastal communities.
2. Transition Words and Phrases:
Use these to smoothly connect ideas and enhance coherence.
- Examples:
- Furthermore, deforestation exacerbates the problem of climate change.
- Consequently, urgent action is required to mitigate these environmental threats.
3. Strong Verbs:
Replace “amalgamate” with more specific and impactful verbs.
- Examples:
- The report highlights the urgent need for sustainable practices.
- These factors combine to create a perfect storm of economic challenges.
Applying Sophisticated Language Effectively
Using less common vocabulary can demonstrate a wider range of language in IELTS, but accuracy and naturalness are paramount.
Example in an IELTS Essay (Problem/Solution):
Problem: One major issue facing modern society is the widening gap between rich and poor. (Simple Subject-Verb)
Solution: To tackle this, governments should invest in education and job training programs. (Transition Phrase + Strong Verb) This will empower individuals to acquire the skills needed for higher-paying jobs. (Simple Subject-Verb)
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Overusing Complex Language: Don’t force sophisticated vocabulary into your writing if simpler words convey the meaning more effectively.
- Incorrect Prepositions: Pay close attention to the prepositions used with verbs and nouns, as they can significantly alter the meaning of a sentence.
- Ignoring Collocations: Be mindful of word combinations that naturally occur together in English. Using incorrect collocations will make your language sound unnatural.
Conclusion
While “it amalgamates that” is grammatically possible, it is not a natural or recommended phrase for IELTS. By focusing on clarity, conciseness, and using a variety of grammatical structures and vocabulary effectively, you can impress examiners and achieve a higher band score. Remember, fluency and accuracy are key to success in the IELTS exam.