Many IELTS candidates, even those aiming for a band 7 or higher, stumble when faced with conditional structures that deviate from the basic “if + present simple, will + verb” pattern. One such structure is exemplified by the phrase “Were it advantageous, I would invest.” This type of conditional, often found in formal writing and speech, can significantly enhance your grammatical range and impress IELTS examiners. This article delves into the nuances of this structure, providing a clear roadmap for incorporating it effectively into your IELTS writing and speaking.
Let’s consider a few examples of how this structure might appear in different sections of the IELTS exam:
Speaking (Part 3):
- Examiner: Do you think governments should invest more in renewable energy sources?
- Candidate: Absolutely. Were it more economically viable, I believe we’d see a much faster transition to a greener future.
Writing (Task 2):
- Some people argue that space exploration is a waste of resources. Were these funds redirected towards solving problems on Earth, such as poverty and hunger, our planet would undoubtedly be a better place.
Listening (Section 4 – Lecture):
- Professor: …And while the initial costs of this technology are high, were it to be widely adopted, the long-term benefits for the environment would be significant.
In each of these examples, the “were + subject + adjective/past participle” structure signals a hypothetical situation, often with an implied meaning of “If this were the case…” It adds a layer of formality and sophistication to your language.
Understanding “Were it advantageous, I would invest”
Meaning and Frequency
This phrase presents a hypothetical situation where the speaker is considering an investment. The use of “were” instead of “if” before the adjective “advantageous” immediately signals a formal tone and a hypothetical context. The structure implies that the investment is not currently considered advantageous, making the subsequent action (investing) unlikely.
While not as frequent as the basic conditional structures, this inverted conditional form appears in academic texts, formal speeches, and occasionally in sophisticated writing styles. Understanding and utilizing it showcases your ability to handle complex grammatical structures, which is crucial for achieving a higher band score in IELTS.
Grammatical Structure and Application
The structure follows this pattern:
Were + Subject + Adjective/Past Participle, Subject + would/could/might + base verb
Let’s break down the example:
- Were it advantageous: This sets up the hypothetical situation. “It” refers to the potential investment.
- I would invest: This is the main clause indicating the speaker’s action (investing) dependent on the hypothetical situation being true.
This structure is essentially a more formal and emphatic way of saying:
- “If it were advantageous, I would invest.”
Using Inverted Conditionals in IELTS
This structure is particularly useful in:
- Writing Task 2: To express opinions, present arguments, and discuss hypothetical scenarios in a more sophisticated and impactful manner.
- Speaking Part 3: To provide well-reasoned and nuanced responses to complex questions.
Examples:
Writing Task 2:
- Topic: Many people believe that technology is making us less social. Do you agree or disagree?
- Sentence: Were technology used more mindfully, I believe it could actually enhance our social connections and foster a greater sense of community.
Speaking Part 3:
- Question: Do you think there is a link between poverty and crime?
- Answer: It’s a complex issue. However, were poverty eradicated, it stands to reason that we would see a decrease in certain types of crime driven by economic desperation.
Enhancing Your Score: Advanced Usage and Alternatives
To further demonstrate your grammatical range, you can:
- Use different modal verbs: Instead of “would,” experiment with “could,” “might,” “should,” or even “may” to express varying degrees of certainty or obligation.
- Vary the adjective/past participle: Don’t limit yourself to “advantageous.” Use a wide range of descriptive words appropriate to the context: “Were the risks minimized, …” “Were the benefits more apparent, …”
Inverted Conditional in IELTS
Alternatives:
While the inverted conditional adds sophistication, you can achieve a similar meaning using “if” but maintaining a formal register:
- “If the situation were more favorable, …”
- “If it were deemed necessary, …”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Incorrect verb tense: The hypothetical nature of this structure requires the use of the past subjunctive (“were”) even when the subject is singular. Avoid using “was” in this construction.
- Overuse: While impressive, using this structure too frequently can make your writing sound forced or unnatural. Reserve it for instances where it adds genuine value and clarity to your message.
Conclusion
Mastering the “were + subject + adjective/past participle” structure, as exemplified by “Were it advantageous, I would invest,” can significantly elevate your grammatical range in the IELTS exam. By understanding its nuances, practicing its application, and being mindful of potential pitfalls, you can confidently wield this structure to express complex ideas with clarity and precision. Remember, success in IELTS relies not just on knowing grammar rules but on using them strategically and effectively.