“On condition that” is a conjunction used to introduce a necessary requirement for a particular outcome. It implies a conditional agreement where one action is contingent upon the completion of another. While it might not be as common as other conjunctions like “because” or “although,” understanding its nuanced usage can significantly enhance your grammatical range and accuracy in the IELTS exam, particularly in the Writing and Speaking sections.
Here are a few examples of how “on condition that” can be used in an IELTS context:
- Speaking Part 3: “Governments should invest in renewable energy sources, on condition that these investments lead to tangible reductions in carbon emissions.” (This sentence demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of conditional statements)
- Writing Task 2: “Some people believe that children should be allowed to use smartphones without restrictions. However, others argue that such access should be granted on condition that children adhere to strict usage guidelines.” (This sentence effectively presents a contrasting viewpoint using the target conjunction.)
Understanding “On Condition That”
This phrase signifies a strong conditional relationship, emphasizing that the first part of the sentence is only possible or allowed if the second part is fulfilled. It’s like saying, “This will happen, but only if that happens first.”
Frequency in IELTS
While not as frequent as simpler conjunctions, “on condition that” does appear in both academic and general IELTS contexts. It is particularly valuable in:
- Writing Task 2: Presenting balanced viewpoints, discussing agreements, or proposing solutions with stipulations.
- Speaking Part 3: Expressing complex ideas, opinions, and hypothetical situations with clarity.
Usage and Grammatical Structure
Formula:
Main Clause + “on condition that” + Conditional Clause
Breakdown:
- Main Clause: This part of the sentence states the action or situation that is dependent on the condition.
- Conditional Clause: This clause outlines the necessary requirement that must be met.
Example:
The company agreed to invest in the project, on condition that the government provides tax breaks.
Analysis:
- The company’s investment (main clause) depends on the government providing tax breaks (conditional clause).
Applying “On Condition That” in IELTS
Writing Task 2:
- Presenting Solutions: “International cooperation is crucial in tackling climate change, on condition that all countries commit to reducing their emissions.”
- Discussing Agreements: “The two nations signed a peace treaty, on condition that both sides agree to disarm.”
Speaking Part 3:
- Expressing Opinions: “I believe that technology can be beneficial for children, on condition that their usage is monitored and controlled.”
- Hypothetical Situations: “If I were to start my own business, I would consider taking a loan, on condition that the interest rates are favorable and I have a solid business plan.”
Achieving a Higher Band Score
Using “on condition that” correctly demonstrates your ability to:
- Employ a wider range of grammatical structures.
- Express complex ideas with precision and clarity.
- Enhance the overall sophistication of your language.
To further improve your score, consider using synonyms like “provided that,” “as long as,” or “with the stipulation that” to showcase a broader vocabulary.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
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Incorrect Tense Agreement: Ensure that the verb tenses in both the main and conditional clauses are consistent and logical.
- Incorrect: The company will invest in the project, on condition that the government provided tax breaks.
- Correct: The company will invest in the project, on condition that the government provides tax breaks.
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Misplacing the Comma: A comma is typically used after the main clause when it precedes “on condition that.”
- Incorrect: The agreement was reached on condition that both parties were satisfied.
- Correct: The agreement was reached, on condition that both parties were satisfied.
By mastering the usage of “on condition that” and being mindful of potential pitfalls, you can elevate your IELTS writing and speaking skills, boosting your confidence and paving the way for a higher band score. Remember to practice implementing this conjunction in various contexts to solidify your understanding. You might also find this resource on Zero Conditional Sentences helpful in further expanding your grammatical skills for the IELTS exam.