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Many IELTS learners feel nervous about speaking fluently. They want to impress the examiner with natural English. But knowing fancy words isn’t always enough. Expressions like idioms and phrasal verbs help a lot. These can make your answers sound native-like and smooth. But how do you choose what to focus on? That’s where Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs for IELTS Speaking becomes important. Knowing the difference can boost your confidence and score.
Both are useful, but they work differently. Idioms are often colorful and tricky. Phrasal verbs are easier to blend in. Using them correctly shows you’re comfortable with English. But using them wrongly can reduce your clarity. So, it’s smart to learn them with care. This blog helps you do just that.
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Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs for IELTS Speaking: Introduction
Want to sound more natural in your IELTS Speaking test?
Scoring well in IELTS Speaking is not just about grammar. You need to sound confident, fluent, and natural. Idioms and phrasal verbs can help you do that. These expressions show you understand English like a native speaker. They also boost your Lexical Resource and Fluency scores. But you need to use them in the right way. When used properly, they make your speech smooth and engaging. This blog will help you learn how to use them wisely.
Why Use Idioms and Phrasal Verbs in IELTS?
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They help you sound more like a native speaker.
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They improve your score in lexical resource.
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They make your answers interesting and expressive.
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They show your comfort with natural English.
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They help you handle complex speaking topics better.
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They show variety in your vocabulary and sentence style.
Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs for IELTS Speaking:What Are Idioms?
1: Most university students ........................ on campus in their first year.
Definition
Idioms are fixed expressions with a special meaning. Their meanings are not clear from the individual words. They often have cultural or emotional background usage. Native speakers use idioms in everyday conversations. Idioms make your speech sound expressive and creative. But you need to know them well to use correctly. A wrong idiom can confuse or mislead the listener. So, learning idioms takes time and proper practice.
Common Idioms for IELTS Speaking
Here are some idioms useful in IELTS Speaking:
| Idiom | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Break the ice | Start a friendly talk | I told a joke to break the ice. |
| Once in a blue moon | Something rare or not common | I eat fast food once in a blue moon. |
| A piece of cake | Very easy task | The test was a piece of cake for me. |
| Hit the nail on the head | Say something exactly right | She hit the nail on the head with her idea. |
These idioms fit naturally in speaking answers. You can use them while sharing stories or opinions.
When to Use Idioms in IELTS
Use idioms mostly in Part 2 and Part 3 of IELTS Speaking Test. They work well when telling a personal story. You can also use them in opinions and comparisons. Use idioms only when you’re sure of their meaning. They should sound natural, not forced or memorized. One or two idioms per answer are enough. Avoid using them too often or without context.
Pros and Cons of Using Idioms
Pros:
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Boosts lexical range in your speaking answers
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Shows you understand native-level expressions
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Adds colour and personality to your speech
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Helps convey emotions or humour effectively
Cons:
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Hard to use without regular practice
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Risk of sounding unnatural or memorized
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Can lower clarity if used incorrectly
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Not always suitable for every IELTS topic
Idioms are powerful but require careful handling. Use them to support your fluency, not replace it. Choose idioms that match your topic or idea. Practice using them naturally during mock speaking tests.
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Start Your IELTS Journey Today!Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs for IELTS Speaking: What Are Phrasal Verbs?
Definition
Phrasal verbs are verbs combined with one or more words. These extra words are usually prepositions or adverbs. They change the meaning of the original verb completely. For example, “give” and “give up” mean different things. Phrasal verbs are used often in spoken English. They are common in topics like work, travel, and daily life. Learning them helps you sound more fluent and natural. They are also easier to use than idioms in IELTS.
Common Phrasal Verbs for IELTS Speaking
Here are some phrasal verbs you can use confidently:
| Phrasal Verb | Meaning | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Look after | Take care of someone | I look after my younger brother every day. |
| Run out of | Have nothing left | We ran out of milk this morning. |
| Come across | Find something by chance | I came across an old photo yesterday. |
| Give up | Stop trying or quit | I gave up sugar last month. |
These verbs are useful in many IELTS speaking topics. Use them in answers about family, habits, or experiences.
How Phrasal Verbs Make You Sound Natural
Native speakers use phrasal verbs all the time. They often replace formal words with these casual phrases. For example, “continue” becomes “carry on” in speech. Using them makes you sound less robotic or textbook-like. They help you speak in a relaxed, fluent manner. Examiners notice and reward such natural language use. Phrasal verbs also connect well with daily life topics. They show your ability to speak like a native speaker.
Pros and Cons of Using Phrasal Verbs
Pros:
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Common in real-life English conversations
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Easy to learn and use in daily topics
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Help improve fluency and natural flow
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Less risky than idioms in IELTS answers
Cons:
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Some have more than one meaning
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Can confuse if used without context
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May not work well in formal writing
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Still need practice to use confidently
Phrasal verbs are powerful tools for IELTS Speaking. They are easier to master than idioms. With regular use, they become part of your speech. Practice them by topic to improve fast and naturally.
Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs: Key Differences
Idioms and phrasal verbs are both useful in IELTS. But they work in different ways and have different uses. Knowing the key differences helps you use them better. It also helps you choose which one to focus on. Some are easier to learn, others more flexible to use. Let’s break down the key differences with clear points. This will help you decide which to use and when.
1️⃣ Level of Formality
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Idioms
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Usually informal and expressive.
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Not suitable for very formal situations.
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Fit best in stories or emotional topics.
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Example: “It cost me an arm and a leg.”
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Phrasal Verbs
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Informal but acceptable in all speaking parts.
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Sound natural and conversational.
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More flexible across various IELTS questions.
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Example: “I ran out of time during the exam.”
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2️⃣ Ease of Learning
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Idioms
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Harder to learn due to unclear meanings.
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Can’t guess meanings from words used.
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Often need to memorize as a whole phrase.
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Example: “Break the ice” = start conversation, not literal.
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Phrasal Verbs
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Easier to understand than idioms.
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Follow verb + preposition/adverb pattern.
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Often have clear meanings from context.
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Example: “Look after” means take care of.
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3️⃣ Frequency of Use in IELTS
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Idioms
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Less commonly used in formal exams.
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Suitable mainly for Part 2 and Part 3.
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Work well in personal experiences and stories.
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Not needed in every answer.
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Phrasal Verbs
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Common across all three IELTS speaking parts.
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Useful for daily life, work, travel topics.
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Fit naturally in most types of answers.
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Help maintain flow and clarity in responses.
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4️⃣ Risk of Misuse
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Idioms
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High risk if used incorrectly.
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Wrong usage may confuse the examiner.
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Can lower clarity and fluency score.
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Often sound forced if not well-practiced.
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Phrasal Verbs
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Safer and more adaptable in speech.
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Risk is lower with enough practice.
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Easier to recover from slight misuse.
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Sound more natural and confident when used right.
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Comparison Table: Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs
| Feature | Idioms | Phrasal Verbs |
|---|---|---|
| Level of Formality | Mostly informal or casual | Usually informal but widely accepted |
| Ease of Learning | Harder to remember and use correctly | Easier to learn and apply in speech |
| IELTS Frequency | Less common, best for stories/opinions | More common in all parts of speaking |
| Risk of Misuse | High – can confuse if used wrongly | Medium – clear meaning in most situations |
Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs: Which Is Better for IELTS Speaking?
Both idioms and phrasal verbs improve your speaking score. But they serve different purposes and carry different risks. In the IELTS Speaking test, balance and clarity matter most. Let’s look at what the band descriptors and examiners say. This will help you understand where to focus your efforts.
Band Descriptor Reference: Lexical Resource and Fluency
Your speaking score depends on four key criteria:
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Fluency and Coherence
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Lexical Resource
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy
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Pronunciation
Idioms and phrasal verbs mainly affect two areas:
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Lexical Resource:
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Measures your range and choice of words.
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Includes idiomatic expressions and topic-specific vocabulary.
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Shows your ability to use natural and varied language.
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Fluency and Coherence:
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Checks your flow and ability to link ideas.
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Natural usage of expressions improves fluency score.
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Forced or wrong usage lowers coherence and impact.
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Examiner Expectations
Examiners want you to speak clearly and naturally. They do not want memorized or scripted answers. They prefer simple, accurate language over complex mistakes. You should show comfort using everyday spoken English. Correct use of phrasal verbs shows real fluency. Idioms work well only if used naturally and confidently.
Remember: One well-used idiom is better than five wrong ones.
Recommendation: What Should You Focus On?
Here is the expert recommendation for IELTS learners:
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🔹 Focus more on phrasal verbs
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They are common in real-life English.
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Easier to learn and safer to use.
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Fit naturally in almost every IELTS topic.
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Improve both fluency and lexical resource scores.
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🔸 Use idioms sparingly
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Only use idioms when you’re 100% confident.
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Avoid rare or confusing idioms in your answers.
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Use them in personal stories or strong opinions.
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Keep them relevant and simple, not overused.
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Summary
| Aspect | Better Choice | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Sound | Phrasal Verbs | Common in speech and daily conversation |
| Ease of Use | Phrasal Verbs | Easier to apply and remember |
| Risk of Misuse | Idioms (higher risk) | Can sound forced or confusing |
| Band Score Impact | Both (if used correctly) | Improves fluency and lexical resource |
To score high, use what fits your message best. Start with phrasal verbs and master idioms slowly. Quality, not quantity, is what impresses the examiner.
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Start Your IELTS Journey Today!Tips to Use Them Correctly
Using idioms and phrasal verbs can improve your IELTS score. But you must use them in the right way. If used wrongly, they can confuse the examiner. Follow these simple and useful tips to use them correctly. These tips will help you build fluency and sound natural.
1. Practice with Cue Cards
Cue cards help you practice real IELTS speaking topics. Use one cue card daily to build confidence and fluency. Try to include one idiom and one phrasal verb. Speak for 1–2 minutes like in the real test. Record your voice and listen to your usage. Check if the expressions sound natural and meaningful.
Example Cue Card:
Describe a difficult decision you made.
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Idiom: A blessing in disguise
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Phrasal verb: Figure out
2. Watch Native Speaker Interviews
Native speakers use these expressions naturally and correctly. Watch interviews, podcasts, or vlogs with English subtitles. Note how and when they use idioms and phrasal verbs. Pay attention to tone, pause, and context of use. Repeat short clips and try to speak along. This improves both your understanding and speaking skills.
Where to Watch:
| Platform | Type of Content |
|---|---|
| YouTube | Interviews, lifestyle vlogs |
| TED Talks | Real-life stories and opinions |
| BBC Learning | News and speaking lessons |
3. Don’t Force-Fit Idioms
- Never insert idioms just to impress the examiner.
- Only use them if they match your idea naturally.
- A wrong or random idiom reduces clarity and meaning.
- Examiners may feel your answer is memorized or fake.
- Always aim for smooth and relevant usage in answers.
- If unsure, skip the idiom and keep it simple.
Wrong usage: “It was raining cats and dogs of happiness.”
Better usage: “It was raining cats and dogs outside.”
4. Learn Phrasal Verbs by Topic
Group phrasal verbs by speaking topics to learn easily. This helps you remember and use them in context. Each IELTS topic uses certain common phrasal verbs often. Use flashcards, charts, or apps to organize them. Practice sentences for each topic using relevant phrasal verbs.
Topic-wise Phrasal Verb Table:
| Topic | Phrasal Verb | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|
| Travel | Set off | We set off early to catch the train. |
| Work | Take on | I took on more tasks at the office. |
| Health | Get over | She got over the cold in two days. |
| Family | Look after | I look after my grandparents on weekends. |
Summary
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Practice with cue cards to build speaking confidence.
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Watch native speakers to learn real usage.
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Avoid using idioms if they don’t fit naturally.
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Learn phrasal verbs by grouping them by topic.
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Keep it simple, clear, and meaningful always.
Using expressions correctly is better than using many.
Sample Answer Using Both
Using idioms and phrasal verbs together can sound impressive. But they must be used naturally, in the right context. Here’s a Part 2 IELTS cue card with a sample answer. The answer includes both idioms and phrasal verbs clearly. You’ll also see how they help build fluency and emotion.
Cue Card: Describe a challenging experience you had.
You should say:
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What the challenge was
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When it happened
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How you dealt with it
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And explain what you learned from it
Sample Answer (With Highlights)
“About a year ago, I went through a difficult time. I had just lost my job due to company downsizing. At first, I didn’t know how to cope with the stress. I had to figure out a new path quickly. Honestly, it felt like I had hit rock bottom. But later, it turned out to be a blessing in disguise. I started freelancing and slowly built my own career. Now, I feel proud that I didn’t give up on myself. That experience really taught me a lesson for life. I learned that challenges can lead to better things.”
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs Used
| Expression | Type | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Went through | Phrasal verb | Faced or experienced something difficult |
| Cope with | Phrasal verb | Manage or deal with stress |
| Figure out | Phrasal verb | Find a solution or understand something |
| Didn’t give up | Phrasal verb | Kept trying and didn’t quit |
| A blessing in disguise | Idiom | Something good that seemed bad at first |
| Taught me a lesson | Idiom | Gave me a valuable life experience |
Why This Sample Works
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Expressions are used in the right context.
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They sound natural and not memorized.
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Idioms are limited to two strong, emotional phrases.
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Phrasal verbs support the story and actions clearly.
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The flow is smooth and easy to follow.
Tip for Practice
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Choose 2 phrasal verbs and 1 idiom per answer.
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Practice with real cue cards from past IELTS tests.
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Use voice recordings to check your fluency.
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Replace overused words with phrasal verbs naturally.
Using both forms together adds depth to your answers. Just make sure each expression fits the idea clearly. When in doubt, choose simpler and safer phrasal verbs
Idioms vs. Phrasal Verbs for IELTS Speaking: Conclusion
Both idioms and phrasal verbs improve IELTS speaking score. Idioms are harder to learn and easy to misuse. Phrasal verbs are common and sound more natural overall. They fit better in most IELTS speaking topics. Idioms add style but require strong understanding and practice. Using them wrongly can lower clarity and fluency score. Aim for balance but focus more on phrasal verbs. They are safer and easier for everyday speech.
Final Tips:
- Use expressions only when they fit the context naturally.
- Always choose quality over quantity in speaking answers.
Key Takeaways:
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Idioms are tricky but impressive when used right.
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Phrasal verbs are natural and easy to blend in.
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Avoid memorizing idioms without knowing their usage.
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Practice both through cue cards and native content.
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Focus on clear, fluent speech over showing off.
Ace Your IELTS Exam with Confidence!
Unlock your potential with our expert-led IELTS preparation course. Achieve your dream score and open doors to global opportunities!
Start Your IELTS Journey Today!Frequently Asked Questions
Are idioms necessary to get a high band score in IELTS Speaking?
No, idioms are not necessary to get a high band score, but they can help improve your Lexical Resource score if used appropriately. Examiners look for a range of vocabulary, and idioms can show a deeper understanding of the language. However, incorrect or forced usage may reduce clarity and affect your fluency. It’s better to use clear, accurate language than to misuse idioms.
Can I use phrasal verbs in formal IELTS Speaking topics?
Yes, phrasal verbs are completely acceptable in IELTS Speaking, even in formal topics. The Speaking test is designed to simulate natural conversation, and phrasal verbs are a part of everyday English. As long as the phrasal verb fits the topic and is used correctly, it will enhance your fluency and help you sound more natural.
How many idioms or phrasal verbs should I use in my answers?
There’s no fixed number, but moderation is key. In a 1–2 minute answer (Part 2), using 1–2 phrasal verbs and 1 idiom is usually enough. In Part 3, use them only when they naturally fit your ideas. Overusing expressions can make your speech sound memorized or unnatural, which can lower your score.
Which are easier to learn and remember—idioms or phrasal verbs?
Phrasal verbs are generally easier to learn because they are based on familiar verbs with added prepositions or adverbs. Their meanings often relate to the base verb, which makes them easier to understand. Idioms, on the other hand, are more abstract and often unrelated to the literal meaning of the words used, so they take more time and practice to master.
What happens if I use an idiom incorrectly in the test?
If an idiom is used in the wrong context or with incorrect grammar, it can confuse the examiner. This may negatively affect your Fluency and Coherence or Lexical Resource score. It’s better to use simple, accurate English than to risk misusing an idiom. Examiners value clear, natural language more than fancy phrases.
Can idioms and phrasal verbs be used in Part 1 of IELTS Speaking?
Yes, they can, but they must sound natural. Part 1 questions are usually personal and short, so overloading them with idioms or phrasal verbs can sound unnatural. For example, answering a question like “What do you do in your free time?” with “I like to chill out with friends” (a phrasal verb) sounds fine. But an idiom like “I paint the town red every weekend” might sound too forced in a short answer.
Should I memorize idioms and phrasal verbs before the test?
It’s fine to learn and practice common expressions, but avoid memorizing full scripted answers with idioms or phrasal verbs. Examiners can tell when an answer is memorized. Instead, practice using these expressions in different topics and learn their meanings in context. This will help you use them naturally during the test.
Where can I learn useful idioms and phrasal verbs for IELTS?
You can learn them through IELTS preparation books, YouTube channels, podcasts, and apps like Quizlet or Anki. Watching English shows, interviews, or TED Talks with subtitles is also helpful. Make a list by topic (e.g., work, health, travel) and create example sentences. Daily practice is key to remembering and using them effectively.
How do idioms and phrasal verbs help improve fluency?
Both help you express ideas more smoothly and naturally. Instead of long explanations, a well-placed idiom or phrasal verb can convey emotion or meaning in fewer words. For example, saying “I ran out of time” is more fluent than saying “I didn’t have any more time available.” These expressions help your speech sound relaxed and native-like.
Can I still get Band 7+ without using idioms or phrasal verbs?
Yes, it is possible to score Band 7 or higher without using them. The key is using a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. If you can speak fluently, answer all parts of the question, and use topic-specific words naturally, you can score high even without idiomatic language. However, including a few well-used expressions can give your answers an extra edge.
