The IELTS exam, a gateway to global opportunities, often requires candidates to showcase their mastery of sophisticated English grammar. Among the many grammatical structures that can elevate your language proficiency, the inverted conditional stands out as particularly impressive. This article delves into the intricacies of one such structure, exemplified by the phrase “Were it in my power, I would change it,” focusing on its application in securing a band 7 or higher.
Consider these illustrative examples, simulating real-life IELTS scenarios:
Speaking (Part 3):
Examiner: What are some global issues you’d prioritize solving?
Candidate: Were it in my power, I would dedicate resources to combating climate change. It poses a significant threat to our planet’s future.
Writing (Task 2):
Some believe that governments should prioritize economic growth over environmental protection. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Were it solely my decision, I would advocate for a balanced approach where economic advancement goes hand in hand with environmental sustainability.
In each case, the inverted conditional adds a layer of formality and sophistication, reflecting a command of advanced grammatical structures.
Deconstructing “Were it in my power…”
This phrase utilizes an inverted conditional, specifically a type II conditional clause (referring to hypothetical situations). Its structure is distinct:
Formula and Application:
Were + subject + to + verb (base form)…, subject + would/could/might + verb (base form)
Breakdown:
- “Were” replaces “If” and signals the hypothetical nature.
- Subject-verb inversion (e.g., “it were” instead of “it was”) further emphasizes the condition’s unlikelihood.
IELTS Relevance:
This structure is particularly potent in Writing Task 2 (expressing opinions) and Speaking Part 3 (discussing abstract ideas), showcasing a high level of grammatical range and accuracy.
Mastering its Usage in IELTS
Writing (Task 2 – Opinion Essay)
Let’s imagine the essay prompt: “Some argue that space exploration is a waste of resources. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Example:
While I acknowledge the financial implications, were it within my capacity to allocate funds, I would undoubtedly champion further exploration of the cosmos. The potential for groundbreaking discoveries far outweighs the economic challenges.
Analysis:
The use of “were it within my capacity…” eloquently presents the writer’s hypothetical stance, adding a layer of persuasive reasoning to the argument.
Speaking (Part 3 – Abstract Discussion)
Examiner: Do you think artificial intelligence will replace human jobs in the future?
Candidate: It’s a complex issue. Were I to predict, certain repetitive tasks might be automated, but human creativity and emotional intelligence will remain irreplaceable in many fields.
Analysis:
The phrase “Were I to predict…” acts as a discourse marker, signaling a thoughtful response to a complex question, thus enhancing the candidate’s fluency and coherence.
Inverted Conditional in IELTS
Elevating Your Usage for a Higher Band
- Vary your vocabulary: Instead of repeatedly using “power,” explore synonyms like “capacity,” “authority,” or “prerogative.”
- Combine with other structures: Use it alongside relative clauses (“Were it not for the tireless efforts of scientists…”) or participle clauses (“Were this issue to be ignored, the consequences would be dire.”).
Common Pitfalls to Avoid:
- Incorrect verb tense: Remember, the main clause uses “would/could/might” + base verb, NOT a past tense form.
- Lack of subject-verb inversion: The structure necessitates inversion; using “If it was in my power…” is grammatically incorrect.
Conclusion
Mastering the “Were it in my power…” structure is akin to wielding a linguistic sword in the battle for a high IELTS band score. By understanding its nuances, practicing its application, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently incorporate this sophisticated grammatical tool into your IELTS writing and speaking, leaving a lasting impression on the examiners.