Many IELTS students aim to impress examiners with sophisticated vocabulary. However, using complex phrases incorrectly can actually lower your score. One such phrase is “it validates that,” which often appears unnatural and grammatically incorrect in writing. This article explores why, providing alternatives and examples to boost your IELTS writing skills.
Let’s examine a few examples:
Incorrect: The study’s findings it validates that social media negatively impacts teenagers’ mental health.
Correct: The study’s findings validate the idea that social media negatively impacts teenagers’ mental health.
Incorrect: The archaeologist’s discovery it validates that the ancient civilization was more advanced than previously thought.
Correct: The archaeologist’s discovery provides evidence that the ancient civilization was more advanced than previously thought.
As you can see, directly using “it validates that” creates a clunky and grammatically inaccurate sentence. Now, let’s delve deeper into why this happens and how to correct it.
Understanding “Validate” and its Usage
“Validate” is a verb meaning to prove something as true or legitimate. While grammatically correct in certain contexts, “it validates that” often leads to redundant subject use. English sentences typically require a clear subject-verb agreement. When “it” is used before “validates,” it creates a situation where two subjects are vying for the same verb, leading to an awkward and grammatically incorrect structure.
Alternatives to “It Validates That”
Instead of “it validates that,” consider these alternatives:
1. Subject + Validate + Object
This structure directly connects the subject performing the validation with the object being validated.
Example:
- The experiment’s results validate the theory proposed by Professor Smith.
2. Demonstrative Pronoun + Validate + Noun Phrase
Using “this” or “that” can create a smoother flow while maintaining grammatical accuracy.
Example:
- This discovery validates the claim that Vikings reached North America centuries before Columbus.
3. Other Verbs and Phrases
Numerous verbs and phrases convey similar meanings to “validate” more naturally:
- Confirm: The evidence confirms that climate change is a real and pressing issue.
- Substantiate: The witness’s testimony substantiated the victim’s account of the robbery.
- Support: Historical data supports the argument for implementing stricter environmental regulations.
- Provide evidence: The archaeological findings provide evidence of a sophisticated ancient civilization in the region.
- Demonstrate: The success of the program demonstrates the effectiveness of early childhood education.
Using “Validate” Effectively in IELTS Writing
Using “validate” effectively can enhance your Lexical Resource score. Here are tips for different sections:
Task 1 (Report Writing):
- Avoid “it validates that.” Instead, focus on directly presenting trends and comparisons.
- Use “validate” to describe how data supports a trend: “The sharp increase in online sales validates the growing consumer preference for digital shopping experiences.”
Task 2 (Essay Writing):
- Use “validate” when referring to evidence supporting your arguments: “The historical evidence validates the claim that societal progress is often driven by technological advancements.”
- Employ alternative verbs and phrases to showcase vocabulary range.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
- Redundant Subject: Avoid using “it” before “validates.”
- Incorrect Tense: Ensure verb tense consistency throughout your writing.
- Word Choice: Consider whether “validate” is the most appropriate word in each context; alternatives might be more suitable.
Conclusion
While aiming for sophisticated vocabulary is commendable, accuracy remains paramount in IELTS writing. Understanding the nuances of phrases like “it validates that” and employing appropriate alternatives ensures your writing is grammatically sound, clear, and impactful. By mastering such subtleties, you enhance your Lexical Resource score and craft compelling responses that impress examiners. Remember to practice applying these tips to your IELTS writing tasks to solidify your understanding.