As an IELTS teacher, I often hear students use phrases that sound unnatural or are grammatically incorrect. One such phrase is “it paints that.” While this might sound somewhat poetic, it’s not a standard English expression and can lower your score in the IELTS writing and speaking sections.
Here are a few examples of how this phrase might be used incorrectly:
- Incorrect: The graph it paints that pollution levels are rising.
- Incorrect: The author’s tone it paints that she is skeptical of technology.
- Incorrect: The data it paints that the economy is in decline.
These examples demonstrate a common mistake among IELTS test-takers: directly translating from their native language. While understandable, this often leads to awkward and grammatically incorrect sentences.
Why “It Paints That” Is Incorrect
The problem lies in the verb “paints.” In English, “paint” is primarily used for:
- Creating art: He paints beautiful landscapes.
- Covering a surface with paint: They painted their house blue.
While “paint” can be used metaphorically to describe creating a picture with words, it’s not typically used with “that” to introduce a clause explaining what the picture shows.
Alternatives for IELTS Writing
Instead of “it paints that,” consider these more natural and accurate alternatives:
1. It shows that…
- Correct: The graph shows that pollution levels are rising.
2. It demonstrates that…
- Correct: The data demonstrates that the economy is in decline.
3. It suggests that…
- Correct: The author’s tone suggests that she is skeptical of technology.
4. It indicates that…
- Correct: The report indicates that there is a need for further research.
These options clearly and accurately convey your meaning while demonstrating a stronger grasp of English grammar and vocabulary.
Achieving Higher Bands with Precise Language
Using accurate grammar and vocabulary is crucial for achieving a band score of 7 or higher in IELTS writing. Here’s how to improve your language:
- Expand your vocabulary: Learn synonyms for common words like “show” to add variety and sophistication to your writing.
- Practice using complex structures: Instead of simple sentences, try using complex sentences with relative clauses or conditional clauses.
- Proofread carefully: Always check your work for grammatical errors, including incorrect verb tenses, subject-verb agreement, and article usage.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some additional mistakes to watch out for:
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Incorrect: The picture paints a picture of poverty. (Repetitive)
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Better: The picture depicts a scene of poverty.
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Incorrect: It is painting a negative image about the company. (Unnatural)
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Better: The article portrays the company in a negative light.
By avoiding these common errors and using precise language, you can significantly enhance the quality of your IELTS writing and boost your chances of achieving a high score.