Have you ever encountered the phrase “Were It A Viable Option, I Would Consider It” and wondered about its meaning and usage? This construction, while seemingly complex, exemplifies a sophisticated grammatical structure that can significantly enhance your IELTS writing and speaking scores. It signifies a hypothetical situation and demonstrates your ability to express nuanced thoughts about unrealized possibilities.
Let’s consider a few examples of how this structure can be used in different sections of the IELTS:
Speaking Part 3:
- Examiner: Do you think space exploration is important for the future?
- Candidate: While I admire the scientific advancements it brings, were it a viable option financially, I would consider investing more in solving immediate issues like climate change and poverty.
Writing Task 2:
- Some people believe that the government should fund art programs. Others feel it is a waste of resources. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
- It could be argued that government funding should be directed towards more pressing concerns like healthcare and education. Were it not for the significant financial burden, supporting the arts would certainly foster creativity and cultural enrichment.
In both examples, the structure “were it…” allows the speaker to express a conditional opinion, suggesting a different course of action under hypothetical circumstances. Now, let’s delve deeper into understanding this unique grammatical structure.
Demystifying “Were It a Viable Option”
This structure is an example of inverted conditional, specifically a hypothetical second conditional with inversion. This form adds a layer of formality and sophistication to your language.
Structure and Meaning:
The phrase follows this structure:
“Were + subject + to + verb (base form)…, (main clause with conditional modal)”
The inversion of the subject and verb (“were it” instead of “if it were”) eliminates the need for “if” and creates a more formal tone. This structure implies that the condition in the first clause is unlikely or impossible.
inverted-conditional-english-grammar|Inverted Conditional in English Grammar|An illustration explaining the concept of inverted conditional in English grammar with clear and concise examples.
Mastering the Inverted Second Conditional for IELTS
Let’s break down the formula for this structure:
Were + subject + to + verb (base form)…, subject + would/could/might + verb (base form)
Applying the Formula:
- Original sentence: If I had more time, I would travel the world.
- Inverted conditional: Were I to have more time, I would travel the world.
IELTS Examples:
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Speaking Part 2: Describe a difficult decision you made.
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Example: It was a challenging choice, but were I to go back, I would still choose the same path, as it taught me invaluable lessons.
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Writing Task 1: The graph shows the number of people migrating to cities over time.
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Example: The trend indicates a continuous increase in urban populations. Were this trend to continue unchecked, cities would face increased strain on resources and infrastructure.
Achieving Higher Scores: Utilizing Advanced Grammar
Using structures like the inverted second conditional demonstrates a strong command of English grammar, which is crucial for achieving a band 7 or higher in IELTS. Here’s how it can boost your score:
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Using less common, complex structures like inversions highlights your ability to manipulate grammar accurately and effectively.
- Lexical Resource: The use of formal language like “viable option” instead of simpler synonyms displays a wider vocabulary range.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Employing such structures can create a natural flow and sophistication in your writing, improving the overall coherence of your arguments.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them:
While using advanced grammar can be beneficial, incorrect usage can lower your score. Here’s a common mistake to avoid:
- Incorrect tense: Using the wrong tense in either clause will make the sentence grammatically incorrect. Ensure both clauses follow the hypothetical second conditional structure.
Incorrect: Were I to have more time, I traveled the world. (Incorrect tense in the main clause)
Correct: Were I to have more time, I would travel the world.
Conclusion:
“Were it a viable option, I would consider it” is a powerful phrase that can significantly enhance the quality of your IELTS writing and speaking. By understanding its structure, meaning, and application, you can confidently incorporate it into your responses, showcasing your mastery of advanced English grammar and achieving a higher band score. Remember to practice using this and other complex grammatical structures regularly to improve your fluency and accuracy.