Many IELTS students find themselves intimidated by complex grammatical structures, especially those used less frequently in everyday language. One such structure is the inverted conditional, often exemplified by phrases like “were it necessary…”. While it might appear daunting at first, understanding and utilizing this structure can significantly enhance your IELTS writing and speaking scores, showcasing a sophisticated grasp of English grammar.
Let’s consider a few examples of how the inverted conditional can be used across different sections of the IELTS:
Speaking Part 3:
“Were it not for the high costs involved, I believe more people would invest in renewable energy sources.”
Writing Task 2:
“Some argue that space exploration is a waste of resources. However, were we to cease all space exploration endeavors, we risk stifling scientific progress and innovation.”
Listening Section:
You might hear a speaker say, “Had the government acted sooner, the economic crisis could have been averted.” This sentence, while not identical to “were it necessary…”, uses the same inverted conditional structure.
In each of these examples, the inverted conditional adds a layer of formality and sophistication to the language, demonstrating a strong command of grammatical structures.
Deconstructing “Were It Necessary…”
This structure, often referred to as the “inverted conditional” or “conditional inversion,” is used to express hypothetical or unlikely situations in a more formal and literary tone.
Meaning and Frequency in IELTS
While not as common as the standard conditional sentences (using “if”), the inverted conditional appears frequently enough in academic and formal contexts to be relevant for the IELTS. Understanding and using it correctly can help you achieve a higher band score by demonstrating a wider range of grammatical structures and a higher level of accuracy.
The Formula and its Applications
Structure:
Were + Subject + to + Verb (base form)…, Subject + would/could/might + Verb (base form)
Example:
- Were the government to invest more in public transportation,citizenscould** save money on commuting costs.
This structure is essentially a more formal way of saying:
- If the government invested more in public transportation, citizens could save money on commuting costs.
Applying the Inverted Conditional:
Writing Task 2:
- “Were it not for the tireless efforts of healthcare workers, the pandemic would have had a far more devastating impact.” This sentence emphasizes the importance of healthcare workers in mitigating the effects of the pandemic.
Speaking Part 3:
- “Were I to choose between living in a city or the countryside, I would opt for the tranquility of rural life.” This showcases a thoughtful and nuanced response, weighing different options.
Inverted Conditional Example
Model Answers:
Writing Task 2 – Discuss the importance of preserving cultural heritage.
“In an era defined by globalization, the preservation of cultural heritage is paramount. Were we to neglect our traditions and customs, we risk losing a vital part of our identity and history. Furthermore, cultural heritage attracts tourism and fosters intercultural understanding, ultimately contributing to a richer and more vibrant global community.”
Speaking Part 3 – How can governments encourage people to use public transportation?
“Governments can adopt various measures to promote the use of public transport. Firstly, were they to invest in creating efficient and reliable public transport networks, people would be more inclined to ditch their cars.”
Elevating Your Language
You can further enhance your usage of the inverted conditional by:
- Using modal verbs other than “would”: Explore “could,” “should,” or “might” to express different degrees of possibility or obligation.
- Combining with other grammatical structures: Integrate it with participial phrases or relative clauses for more complex sentence structures.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them:
-
Incorrect word order: Remember, the subject and verb are inverted after “were.”
Incorrect: Were I to have more time, I will travel the world.
Correct: Were I to have more time, I would travel the world. -
Using “if” instead of inversion: While both structures express conditional situations, the inverted conditional conveys a more formal and hypothetical tone.
Less Formal: If the internet were to disappear, our lives would be drastically different.
More Formal: Were the internet to disappear, our lives would be drastically different.
Conclusion
Mastering the inverted conditional, exemplified by structures like “were it necessary…”, can significantly enhance your grammatical range and accuracy in the IELTS. By understanding its structure, practicing its application, and avoiding common errors, you can confidently incorporate this sophisticated grammatical tool into your writing and speaking, boosting your overall band score. Remember, consistent practice is key to consolidating your understanding and applying it naturally in exam conditions.
