How to use Collocations in the IELTS test

Collocations are specific combinations of words that sound natural together. They can make your English sound better and help you communicate more effectively. In this article, we will look at some collocations that are useful for the IELTS test.

By using these word combinations correctly, you can improve your language skills and increase your chances of getting a good score for your IELTS Speaking and Writing tests.. So, let's explore collocations and see how they can help you do better on the IELTS test.

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Collocations are word combinations that frequently occur together and sound natural to native speakers. They are specific pairings or groups of words that go well together in a sentence. Collocations can involve different parts of speech, such as verbs and nouns, adjectives and nouns, or adverbs and adjectives. They are an important aspect of language learning because using collocations correctly can make your speech or write more fluent, natural, and accurate.

An example of a collocation is:

• I was in such a rush this morning that I forgot to make my bed.

• In this case, the verb ‘make’ is used with the noun ‘bed’.

• So, the collocation here is: Make someone’s bed

Using a wide range of collocations accurately can help you achieve a higher band score for Lexical Resource. This means it is important to be able to group your words together properly, including smaller items like prepositions.

Different collocation patterns for the IELTS test

It is essential for you to familiarise yourself with various collocation patterns that can be applied in everyday situations. There are six primary types of collocations that are commonly used and can greatly improve your language proficiency.

Here is a list of these collocation patterns:

• Verb + Noun

• Verb + Adverb

• Adverb + Adjective

• Noun + Noun (including collective nouns)

• Verb + Prepositional Phrase

• Adjective + Noun

Using collocations in your IELTS test can be very beneficial, it helps you to achieve your desired scores. Here are some of the benefits of collocations if used correctly:

1. Improved language fluency

• Incorporating collocations into your English language usage can greatly enhance your fluency. By using word combinations that sound natural together, your speech and writing will flow more smoothly, making you sound more proficient in English.

2. Enhanced vocabulary

• Collocations expose you to a wider range of vocabulary and help you expand your word choices. By learning and using collocations, you can express yourself with greater precision, which is highly valued in the IELTS test.

3. More natural expression

• Collocations make your English sound more natural and native-like. When you use collocations correctly, it demonstrates that you have a good understanding of the language and can use it in a natural, authentic way.

4. Improved communication skills

• Using collocations effectively improves your ability to communicate ideas accurately and clearly. Collocations help you convey your thoughts and intentions more effectively, allowing you to express yourself with greater confidence and coherence in both spoken and written English.

Here are some of the examples of collocation with meanings that you can use when preparing for the IELTS test:

Using different parts of speech in collocations

When we switch between different parts of speech, such as verbs and nouns, the collocations associated with the word may change.

Let's take the word "influence" as an example:

1. Influence (verb)

   • My grandfather influenced me greatly when I was a youngster

   • Collocation: influence someone greatly

2. Influence (noun)

   • My grandfather had a great influence on me when I was a youngster

   • Collocation: have a great influence on someone

Notice that the noun form of "influence" uses the preposition "on," while the verb form does not. The language also differs, as the noun form uses the adjective "great" instead of the adverb. Additionally, it uses the verb "have." It is important to be cautious when switching between different parts of speech for a word, as the associated collocations may vary.

Explore more complex collocations

When it comes to collocations, we can observe more complexity in the verb, noun, and adjective forms of certain words.

Let's take the word "prefer" as an example:

1. Prefer (verb)

   • I prefer traditional food over fast food because it is much more delicious

   • Collocation: prefer something

2. Preference (noun)

   • I have a preference for traditional food over fast food because it is much more delicious

   • Collocation: have a preference for something

3. Preferable (adjective)

   • I find traditional food more preferable than fast food because it is much more delicious

   • Collocation: find something more preferable

As you can see, the verb form is the simplest option among the three. When deciding which part of speech to use in your speaking or writing, it is essential to consider the level of complexity required. Using the noun or adjective form can be more beneficial in achieving a higher band score for Lexical Resource. These more intricate collocations demonstrate a greater range of language proficiency.

Collocations with synonyms

When using synonyms, it's important to note that not all of them have the same collocations.

Let's take the examples of "help" and "assist":

1. Help (verb)

   • Parents can help their children (to) prepare for adult life by giving them chores to do around the home

   • Collocation: help someone (to) do something

2. Assist (verb)

   • Parents can assist their children in preparing for adult life by giving them chores to do around the home

   • Collocation: assist someone in doing something

It is important to exercise caution when using synonyms because their collocations may differ. As seen in this example, the verb "assist" use the preposition "in," and the verb form following the preposition is in the -ing form.

Always be mindful of the appropriate collocations associated with each synonym to ensure accurate and natural language usage.

Multiple options for verb + noun collocations

When it comes to the noun "test," there are multiple verb + noun collocations that can be used interchangeably, each conveying the same meaning.

Let's explore the options:

1. Test (noun)

   1. If I want to enter the course, I have to take a test.

   2. If I want to enter the course, I have to sit a test.

   3. If I want to enter the course, I have to do a test.

In this case, all three options are valid and have the same meaning. However, it is recommended to consider using the less common option, such as "sit a test," as it can help diversify your language usage.

It's important to be cautious with other collocations that may alter the meaning, like "set a test" or "make a test." These actions are typically performed by teachers, not students.

When taking the IELTS test, it's important to be aware of common mistakes that should be avoided. Below are some key points to help you understand the errors to steer clear of during the exam:

• Avoid repetition: Aim to use synonyms and antonyms instead of repeating words. This helps showcase a wider range of vocabulary and language skills

• Use formal language: You should use formal language in the IELTS test, unless otherwise specified (i.e. whyen the task calls for informal language to be used). This demonstrates a higher level of proficiency and adherence to the exam's requirements

• Use precise vocabulary: It is crucial to use precise and specific vocabulary in the IELTS test. Vague words or expressions lack the necessary clarity and precision expected in the test

• Avoid abbreviations: Refrain from using abbreviations like ASAP. Instead, use full words to prevent any potential misunderstandings and ensure clear communication.

By being mindful of these mistakes and focusing on effective language usage, you can improve your performance and improve your band scores in the IELTS test.