“Were it within my control, I would change it.” This elegant, somewhat formal structure might seem a bit intimidating at first glance. But fear not, aspiring IELTS achievers! Mastering this phrase, and similar grammatical constructions, can significantly enhance your speaking and writing, propelling you towards those coveted band 7+ scores.
Imagine yourself confidently using this phrase during your IELTS speaking exam:
- Examiner: “What changes would you like to see in your hometown?”
- You: “Were it within my control, I would transform the abandoned park into a vibrant community garden.”
Or, picture yourself seamlessly weaving it into your IELTS writing task 2 essay:
- “Some argue that globalization leads to cultural homogenization. Were this entirely true, the world would be a far less interesting place.”
Intrigued? Let’s delve into the intricacies of this structure and explore how you can wield it effectively in your IELTS journey.
Deconstructing “Were it Within My Control…”
This phrase, and others like it, belong to a grammatical family known as inverted conditionals or subjunctive mood. They express hypothetical or unlikely situations in a formal and somewhat literary style.
Frequency in IELTS
While not as common as the first or second conditional, understanding inverted conditionals demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of English grammar, which is precisely what examiners look for at higher band levels.
Mastering the Formula
Let’s break down the structure:
Were + Subject + (to) + Verb (base form)…, Subject + Would/Could/Might + Verb (base form)
Example:
- Were the government to invest more in renewable energy, we could combat climate change more effectively.
Analysis:
- “Were the government to invest…” sets up the hypothetical condition. Notice the inversion of “were” and the subject (“the government”).
- “We could combat…” presents the result or consequence of that condition.
IELTS Exam Preparation
Applying the Formula in IELTS
IELTS Speaking: When discussing hypothetical scenarios or expressing opinions, using an inverted conditional adds a touch of sophistication and demonstrates your range of grammatical structures.
- Instead of: “If I had the chance, I would travel the world.”
- Say: “Were I to have the chance, I would embark on a global adventure.”
IELTS Writing Task 2: Inverted conditionals are particularly effective when constructing arguments, introducing counterarguments, or adding emphasis to your points.
- Example: “Many believe that technology isolates people. Were this universally true, we wouldn’t see the rise of online communities and social movements.”
Elevating Your Language: Variations and Alternatives
To further enhance your linguistic dexterity, explore these variations:
- Using “Should”: “Should the need arise, I will be there to help.”
- Using “Had”: “Had I known about the traffic, I would have left earlier.”
Remember, while these structures add sophistication, use them judiciously. Overusing them can make your language sound unnatural.
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect word order: Don’t forget the inversion! “Were I to…” NOT “If I were to…”
- Tense inconsistency: Ensure the tenses in both parts of the conditional statement align logically.
- Overuse: Reserve this structure for situations where it truly enhances your meaning and formality.
Conclusion
Mastering inverted conditionals like “were it within my control” is a surefire way to impress IELTS examiners and boost your band score. By understanding the formula, practicing its application, and being mindful of potential pitfalls, you can confidently incorporate this advanced grammar point into your speaking and writing, showcasing your command of the English language. So go forth, practice diligently, and watch your IELTS score soar!