Many IELTS students aim to impress examiners with complex vocabulary and grammatical structures. However, sometimes the simplest phrases can be misleading. One such phrase is “it weighs that,” which often causes confusion among learners. This article delves into the grammatical correctness of this phrase and explores alternative expressions to boost your IELTS score.
Let’s start by analyzing a few examples:
- Incorrect: The sculpture is quite heavy; it weighs that it’s solid gold.
- Correct: This suitcase feels like it weighs a ton!
- Correct: The baby elephant is enormous! I’d estimate it weighs about 200 kilograms.
As you can see, “it weighs that” is grammatically incorrect. We’ll explain why in the following sections.
Understanding “Weigh” and its Usage in IELTS
The verb “weigh” already implies a measurement or estimation of weight. Therefore, using “that” after “weigh” becomes redundant and grammatically incorrect.
In the IELTS exam, you might encounter questions about weight in various sections:
- Listening: You might hear a conversation where people discuss the weight of an object or animal.
- Reading: A passage could describe the weight of a historical artifact or a scientific discovery.
- Speaking: You might need to describe a heavy object or compare the weights of different items.
- Writing: You may have to write about data related to weight in Task 1 or provide supporting evidence involving weight in Task 2.
The Correct Structure and Alternatives
While “it weighs that” is incorrect, several alternatives effectively convey the intended meaning. Here are some options:
1. Using “weigh” with a specific weight:
This is the most straightforward way to express weight.
Formula: Subject + weigh + weight
Example:
- The package weighs five kilograms.
2. Using “weigh” with an estimated weight:
You can use adverbs like “approximately,” “around,” “roughly,” or “about” to indicate an estimation.
Formula: Subject + weigh + approximately/around/roughly/about + estimated weight
Example:
- The suitcase weighs approximately 20 pounds.
3. Using descriptive language:
Instead of directly stating the weight, you can describe how heavy something feels.
Examples:
- The backpack is so heavy; I can barely lift it!
- This box feels as light as a feather.
Mastering Weight-Related Vocabulary for IELTS
Using a variety of vocabulary related to weight can demonstrate your language proficiency in the IELTS exam. Here are some examples:
Verbs:
- weigh
- tip the scales at
- measure
- estimate
Adjectives:
- heavy
- light
- weighty
- massive
- tiny
Adverbs:
- approximately
- roughly
- about
- nearly
Remember: Always choose vocabulary that fits the context and register of your writing or speaking.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
- Using “that” after “weigh”: As mentioned earlier, this is grammatically incorrect.
Incorrect: The cake weighs that it’s dense.
Correct: The cake weighs a lot because it’s dense. - Incorrect prepositions: Using the wrong preposition can also lead to grammatical errors.
Incorrect: The rock weighs about ten kilograms by my estimation.
Correct: The rock weighs about ten kilograms by my estimate. - Lack of subject-verb agreement: Ensure the verb form agrees with the subject.
Incorrect: The boxes weighs too much.
Correct: The boxes weigh too much.
Conclusion
Mastering the correct usage of “weigh” and related vocabulary is crucial for achieving a high score in the IELTS exam. Remember to avoid using “it weighs that” and instead opt for grammatically correct alternatives. By practicing various expressions and understanding common errors, you can confidently tackle any weight-related questions in the IELTS exam.