“It depicts that…” seems logical, but does it actually work in English? This phrase often trips up IELTS students, especially those aiming for a higher band score where nuanced vocabulary matters. Let’s break down why this construction is usually incorrect, explore the right way to discuss depiction, and equip you with sophisticated alternatives to impress those IELTS examiners.
Imagine encountering this sentence in the IELTS Reading section:
“The graph depicts that the use of renewable energy has risen steadily.”
While grammatically understandable, it lacks the natural flow of native English.
Understanding “Depict” and Its Usage
The verb “depict” means to represent or show something, often in a visual form. However, it’s crucial to remember that “depict” directly engages with the object being shown, not a subsequent clause starting with “that.”
Here’s the key: You depict something directly, not a fact about something.
The Correct Construction
Instead of “it depicts that,” use “depict” transitively, meaning it needs a direct object:
Incorrect: The painting depicts that the woman is sad.
Correct: The painting depicts the woman’s sadness.
Let’s refine our example sentence:
Original: The graph depicts that the use of renewable energy has risen steadily.
Improved: The graph depicts the steady rise in renewable energy use.
Notice how the improved version directly connects “depict” with what’s being shown in the graph.
IELTS-Specific Applications:
Writing Task 1:
When describing charts or diagrams, avoid “it depicts that.” Instead:
- The chart illustrates…
- The graph clearly shows…
- The data reveals…
Example:
- Instead of: The bar chart depicts that there was a sharp decline in sales during the recession.
- Write: The bar chart illustrates a sharp decline in sales during the recession.
Speaking Part 2:
If you’re describing a photograph, use “depict” correctly:
- The photograph depicts a family picnic in a park.
- This image powerfully depicts the beauty of the natural world.
Writing Task 2:
While less common in discursive essays, you might use “depict” when referring to how something is represented:
- The novel depicts the struggles of immigrant communities in the early 20th century.
Sophisticated Alternatives for a Higher Band Score
Ditch “it depicts that” altogether and embrace these alternatives:
- Illustrate
- Demonstrate
- Portray
- Represent
- Showcase
- Convey
Example:
- Instead of: This poem depicts that love can be both joyful and painful.
- Write: This poem powerfully conveys the multifaceted nature of love, encompassing both joy and pain.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
- Using “that” after “depict”: Always remember “depict” directly engages with the object.
- Confusing “depict” with “describe”: “Depict” is for visual representations; “describe” is broader.
- Overusing “depict”: Variety is key! Utilize synonyms to showcase your lexical resource.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “depict” and its alternatives will significantly enhance your IELTS writing and speaking performance. By understanding its proper usage and incorporating a range of sophisticated vocabulary, you’ll be well on your way to achieving your desired band score. Remember, accurate and natural language use is crucial for success in the IELTS exam.