IELTS Writing Phrase Bank
100+ Academic Phrases for Band 7+
Copy-ready phrases for Task 1 and Task 2, organised by function and band level. Each phrase includes a full IELTS example sentence and usage notes.
Task
Band Level
🗣️Introducing an Argument
Task 2Use these phrases to open your essay, introduce a topic, or signal your overall position.
It is widely acknowledged that
It is widely acknowledged that access to quality education plays a central role in reducing economic inequality.
Signals a generally accepted truth — useful in the introduction.
There is considerable debate surrounding
There is considerable debate surrounding the extent to which governments should regulate social media platforms.
The question of whether … has attracted significant attention
The question of whether nuclear energy should be expanded has attracted significant attention in recent years.
In recent decades, … has become increasingly prevalent
In recent decades, remote working has become increasingly prevalent across many industries.
This essay will argue that
This essay will argue that the benefits of international travel far outweigh the associated environmental costs.
Direct and clear — suitable for opinion essays. Avoid in discussion essays where you present both views.
While there are merits to both sides of this argument,
While there are merits to both sides of this argument, the evidence suggests that stricter environmental regulation is necessary.
Good for discussion essays before stating your own position.
A growing body of evidence suggests that
A growing body of evidence suggests that sedentary lifestyles are contributing to rising rates of chronic illness.
In today's society,
In today's society, digital literacy is considered an essential skill in most professional environments.
⚠️ Overused and generic. Acceptable at Band 5–6 but unlikely to impress examiners at Band 7+. Replace with something more specific.
The issue of … is one of the most pressing concerns facing
The issue of affordable housing is one of the most pressing concerns facing urban policymakers today.
It has been argued that
It has been argued that stricter penalties for traffic violations would significantly reduce road accidents.
Passive construction — useful for presenting a view you are about to discuss or partially agree with.
➕Adding Information
Task 1 & Task 2Use these to build on a point, add supporting evidence, or introduce a further reason.
Furthermore,
Furthermore, investment in public transport reduces individual car usage and its associated carbon emissions.
In addition to this,
In addition to this, early childhood education programmes have been shown to improve long-term academic outcomes.
What is more,
What is more, the financial burden of private healthcare falls disproportionately on lower-income households.
More conversational than "Furthermore" — effective in written English when used sparingly.
Moreover, it is worth noting that
Moreover, it is worth noting that the psychological benefits of exercise extend beyond physical health improvements.
Beyond this,
Beyond this, the cultural exchange facilitated by international tourism strengthens diplomatic ties between nations.
A further consideration is that
A further consideration is that autonomous vehicles could dramatically reduce the number of accidents caused by human error.
Alongside this,
Alongside this, governments must address the underlying social conditions that make crime more likely to occur.
Also,
Also, remote working has been shown to improve employee wellbeing and reduce commuting-related stress.
⚠️ Too informal for academic writing. Use "Furthermore" or "In addition" instead.
It should also be noted that
It should also be noted that many developing nations lack the infrastructure to implement such policies effectively.
Compounding this,
Compounding this, the rapid pace of technological change means that workers must continually update their skills.
Sophisticated linking word — signals that two factors combine to make a situation worse or more complex.
⚡Contrasting Ideas
Task 1 & Task 2Use these to introduce an opposing view, signal a contradiction, or present a counterargument.
However, it could be argued that
However, it could be argued that complete surveillance systems infringe on individual privacy rights.
Despite this,
Despite this, many citizens continue to rely on private vehicles due to inadequate public transport alternatives.
On the other hand,
On the other hand, opponents of this policy contend that it places an unfair economic burden on businesses.
Use to present the opposing view in a balanced discussion essay.
Nevertheless,
Nevertheless, the potential economic gains of automation must be weighed against the social cost of job displacement.
Notwithstanding this,
Notwithstanding this, a number of researchers maintain that early screen exposure has limited long-term effects on cognitive development.
In contrast,
In contrast, countries that have invested heavily in renewable energy have seen a marked reduction in carbon emissions.
Conversely,
Conversely, highly competitive education systems can generate anxiety and erode students' intrinsic motivation to learn.
Yet it remains the case that
Yet it remains the case that access to higher education is still strongly correlated with socioeconomic background.
While it is true that … , this does not necessarily mean that
While it is true that technology has simplified many daily tasks, this does not necessarily mean that it has improved our overall quality of life.
Excellent for acknowledging a point before refuting it — shows sophisticated argument structure.
But
But some economists argue that a higher minimum wage could actually lead to job losses in certain sectors.
⚠️ Starting a sentence with "But" is too informal for academic writing. Use "However," or "Yet," instead.
Put these phrases into practice
Write a Task 2 essay using these phrases and get instant AI feedback
See how your Lexical Resource score improves when you use band-appropriate language.
Try AI Writing Evaluator →💡Giving Examples
Task 1 & Task 2Use these phrases to support your arguments with concrete evidence, statistics, or illustrations.
For instance,
For instance, Finland's education system, which emphasises play-based learning, consistently produces high academic achievement.
To illustrate this point,
To illustrate this point, studies have shown that students who exercise regularly demonstrate improved concentration in class.
A compelling example of this is
A compelling example of this is Singapore's approach to urban planning, which integrates green spaces throughout the city.
This is evident in the case of
This is evident in the case of Germany, which generates over 40% of its electricity from renewable sources.
Such as
Several European nations, such as Denmark and Sweden, have adopted comprehensive social welfare systems that reduce income inequality.
Research has consistently demonstrated that
Research has consistently demonstrated that bilingual children outperform their monolingual peers in tasks requiring cognitive flexibility.
A case in point is
A case in point is the rapid adoption of electric vehicles in Norway, where generous government subsidies have driven consumer uptake.
For example,
For example, countries that have legalised cannabis have reported no significant increase in overall drug use among young people.
Perfectly acceptable — just ensure it is followed by a specific, relevant example rather than a vague claim.
This can be seen in countries where
This can be seen in countries where public health campaigns have successfully reduced smoking rates among teenagers.
Consider the example of
Consider the example of Japan, where an ageing population has led to significant labour shortages in key industries.
🔗Cause and Effect
Task 1 & Task 2Use these to explain why something happens or what the consequences of an action are.
As a consequence of
As a consequence of widespread deforestation, many indigenous species have lost their natural habitats.
This inevitably leads to
Restricting access to higher education on the basis of financial ability inevitably leads to a less meritocratic society.
One of the most significant consequences of … is
One of the most significant consequences of urban migration is the increased strain on housing and public services.
This is largely attributable to
The decline in physical activity among children is largely attributable to the increased use of digital devices.
Consequently,
Consequently, governments have been under increasing pressure to introduce stricter data privacy legislation.
This results in
A lack of investment in early years education often results in greater inequality later in the educational pipeline.
A direct result of this is that
A direct result of this is that many rural communities are left without adequate access to medical facilities.
The underlying cause of … is
The underlying cause of many social problems is persistent poverty rather than individual moral failings.
This has a knock-on effect on
Poor nutrition in early childhood has a knock-on effect on cognitive development and school performance.
"Knock-on effect" is a widely recognised idiom in academic writing — use it confidently.
Therefore,
Carbon emissions from the transport sector continue to rise. Therefore, investment in electric infrastructure must be accelerated.
Basic but correct. Vary your cause-effect language by also using "Consequently," and "As a result,".
🤝Conceding a Point
Task 2Use these to acknowledge the strengths of an opposing argument before explaining why your view still holds.
Admittedly,
Admittedly, tourism provides substantial economic benefits to developing nations, but these must be balanced against environmental degradation.
One of the most natural ways to concede a point in English academic writing.
It is certainly true that
It is certainly true that genetic research has produced life-saving medical treatments, yet the ethical implications cannot be ignored.
There is some merit to the argument that
There is some merit to the argument that school uniforms reduce visible socioeconomic differences among students.
One cannot deny that
One cannot deny that social media has dramatically increased the speed at which information is shared globally.
To be fair,
To be fair, many private companies do invest significantly in research that benefits the wider public.
Slightly conversational but well-recognised in IELTS Writing — use sparingly.
Granted,
Granted, digital textbooks are more cost-effective, but they cannot fully replicate the experience of hands-on laboratory learning.
Elegant one-word concession — highly effective in argumentative writing.
Whilst it is understandable that … , the fact remains that
Whilst it is understandable that parents wish to protect their children from online risks, the fact remains that digital literacy is an essential modern skill.
Although proponents of … make a valid point,
Although proponents of nuclear energy make a valid point regarding low carbon emissions, the risk of catastrophic failure cannot be dismissed.
This view is not without foundation; however,
This view is not without foundation; however, it overlooks the considerable social benefits that immigration brings to host countries.
Even if one accepts that
Even if one accepts that standardised testing provides useful comparative data, it remains a poor measure of creative and critical thinking.
Put these phrases into practice
Write a Task 2 essay using these phrases and get instant AI feedback
See how your Lexical Resource score improves when you use band-appropriate language.
Try AI Writing Evaluator →💬Expressing Opinions
Task 2Use these to state your own view, evaluate an idea, or signal your position clearly.
In my view,
In my view, the long-term environmental benefits of renewable energy investment far outweigh the initial financial costs.
I would contend that
I would contend that the primary responsibility for addressing climate change lies with governments rather than individuals.
"Contend" signals a more assertive, well-supported opinion — stronger than "I think".
It seems reasonable to conclude that
It seems reasonable to conclude that a combination of both individual action and government policy is required to tackle obesity.
I firmly believe that
I firmly believe that universal access to the internet is a prerequisite for achieving genuine educational equality.
From my perspective,
From my perspective, the most effective way to reduce crime is to address its root social and economic causes.
It is my view that
It is my view that competitive sport in schools, when properly managed, builds resilience and social skills in young people.
I think
I think that technology has made modern life significantly more convenient.
⚠️ Too informal and weak for Band 7+ writing. Replace with "I would argue that" or "I firmly believe that".
I would argue that
I would argue that cities should invest more heavily in cycling infrastructure as a low-cost solution to both congestion and pollution.
The evidence strongly suggests that
The evidence strongly suggests that early intervention in childhood development yields greater returns than remedial programmes later in life.
On balance, it appears that
On balance, it appears that the advantages of a globalised economy are more widely distributed than its critics acknowledge.
Excellent for conclusions — signals a measured, considered judgement.
✅Summarising and Concluding
Task 1 & Task 2Use these in your final paragraph to restate your position, summarise your main points, and signal closure.
In conclusion,
In conclusion, while automation presents certain risks to employment, its potential to generate new industries and improve productivity is considerable.
Correct and clear — but every IELTS essay uses this. Following it with a strong, specific sentence matters more than the phrase itself.
To summarise,
To summarise, this essay has argued that both individual lifestyle changes and structural policy reform are required to address the obesity epidemic.
On balance,
On balance, the social and economic arguments in favour of universal basic income appear to outweigh the concerns about its implementation.
Overall, it is clear that
Overall, it is clear that the rapid expansion of urban populations necessitates a fundamental rethinking of housing and infrastructure policy.
Having considered both sides of this issue,
Having considered both sides of this issue, it is evident that neither a purely restrictive nor a purely permissive approach to drug policy is fully effective.
Signals a balanced, reasoned conclusion — suits discussion essays particularly well.
It is therefore apparent that
It is therefore apparent that sustainable development requires the collaboration of governments, businesses, and individuals alike.
The above discussion demonstrates that
The above discussion demonstrates that access to quality healthcare should be treated as a fundamental right rather than a commodity.
In the final analysis,
In the final analysis, economic growth and environmental sustainability are not mutually exclusive goals, provided that the right policies are in place.
As this essay has shown,
As this essay has shown, the long-term costs of neglecting mental health services far exceed the short-term savings from reduced funding.
To conclude,
To conclude, a multi-faceted approach combining education, regulation, and incentives offers the most realistic path to reducing carbon emissions.
📈Describing Trends
Task 1 AcademicUse these in Task 1 Academic to describe how data changes over time — rising, falling, or fluctuating.
… rose sharply to
The proportion of renewable energy in the national grid rose sharply to 42% between 2015 and 2020.
… experienced a dramatic increase of
The number of international students experienced a dramatic increase of 65% over the five-year period.
… declined steadily from … to
Car ownership among adults aged 18–25 declined steadily from 52% in 2005 to 31% in 2020.
… remained relatively stable at around
Average household spending on food remained relatively stable at around 12% of income throughout the period shown.
… reached a peak of
Annual sales reached a peak of 8.2 million units in 2018, before falling back significantly in subsequent years.
… witnessed a gradual upward trend
Life expectancy in the region witnessed a gradual upward trend throughout the latter half of the twentieth century.
… fluctuated considerably between
Consumer confidence fluctuated considerably between 2008 and 2012, reflecting broader economic instability.
"Fluctuated" implies irregular, unpredictable movement — use only when the data is genuinely erratic.
After an initial period of growth, … levelled off at
After an initial period of growth, smartphone adoption levelled off at approximately 80% of the adult population.
Put these phrases into practice
Write a Task 2 essay using these phrases and get instant AI feedback
See how your Lexical Resource score improves when you use band-appropriate language.
Try AI Writing Evaluator →⚖️Making Comparisons
Task 1 AcademicUse these in Task 1 Academic to compare figures, highlight differences, or show similarities between data sets.
… was considerably higher than
The proportion of adults using public transport in Tokyo was considerably higher than in Los Angeles at every point in the data.
By contrast,
Germany produced 237 TWh of renewable electricity by 2020. By contrast, Italy generated only 109 TWh in the same year.
… accounted for roughly twice as much as
Wind energy accounted for roughly twice as much electricity generation as solar in 2020.
The figures for … and … were broadly similar
The figures for Spain and France were broadly similar in 2010, though they diverged significantly over the following decade.
The most notable difference between … and … was
The most notable difference between the UK and France was the far more rapid growth in renewable generation in the UK.
Use this to highlight the most important comparison — good for overview sentences.
In comparison with …, … saw a more modest increase
In comparison with Germany, which tripled its output, France saw a more modest increase of around 64% over the period.
Both … and … showed a similar pattern of
Both Italy and Spain showed a similar pattern of moderate but consistent growth throughout the period.
… stood at approximately
In 2010, the UK's renewable energy output stood at approximately 26 TWh — by far the lowest of the five countries.
⚙️Describing Processes
Task 1 AcademicUse these in Task 1 Academic when describing how something is made, how a system works, or a sequence of stages.
The process begins when
The process begins when raw materials are delivered to the factory and inspected for quality.
In the first stage,
In the first stage, the water is filtered to remove any large particles and debris.
This is followed by
The mixture is heated to 80 degrees Celsius. This is followed by a rapid cooling phase lasting approximately ten minutes.
Subsequently,
Subsequently, the refined oil is transferred to storage tanks, where it is kept under controlled temperature conditions.
Once … has been completed,
Once the fermentation process has been completed, the liquid is strained and the solids are discarded.
The final stage involves
The final stage involves quality testing, after which approved products are packaged and distributed to retailers.
The diagram illustrates the stages involved in
The diagram illustrates the stages involved in the production of recycled paper from collected waste materials.
Use in the opening sentence of a process diagram description.
As can be seen from the diagram,
As can be seen from the diagram, there are seven distinct stages in the water purification process.
Good for overview sentences — summarises the number of stages before describing them.
✉️General Training Letter Phrases
Task 1 GeneralUse these in Task 1 General Training letters — with formal, semi-formal, and informal variants for different letter types.
I am writing to express my concern regarding
I am writing to express my concern regarding the recent changes to the bus timetable, which have significantly affected my daily commute.
Formal register — suitable for complaint letters to authorities or businesses.
I am writing with reference to
I am writing with reference to your advertisement for a part-time customer service representative, which appeared in yesterday's edition.
Formal — ideal for job application or enquiry letters.
I would like to bring to your attention the fact that
I would like to bring to your attention the fact that the noise levels from the construction site have been exceeding acceptable limits.
Formal and assertive — strong opening for a complaint.
I am writing to request
I am writing to request a refund for the damaged item I received with my order last Tuesday.
Direct and clear — suitable for formal requests.
I hope this letter finds you well.
Dear Ms Chen, I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to enquire about the availability of the seminar room on the 15th.
Semi-formal — not appropriate for informal letters to friends.
I would be most grateful if you could
I would be most grateful if you could confirm the details of your refund policy at your earliest convenience.
Formal and polite — excellent for polite request letters.
I must insist that
I must insist that the matter be resolved within fourteen days, as agreed in the original contract.
Formal — use in strong complaint letters when requesting specific action.
It was so lovely to hear from you!
It was so lovely to hear from you! I can hardly believe it's been two years since we last met up.
Informal register — suitable for letters to friends or family only.
I am writing to apologise for
I am writing to apologise for the delay in returning your book — I had quite forgotten it was on loan.
Suitable for semi-formal apology letters. For formal apologies, add "sincerely" or "unreservedly".
I look forward to hearing from you.
I look forward to hearing from you and hope that we can resolve this matter quickly.
Standard letter closing — always appropriate. Vary with "I await your response" for more formal letters.
I would be grateful for any information you could provide regarding
I would be grateful for any information you could provide regarding the application process for the scholarship programme.
Formal — ideal for enquiry letters.
You'll never guess what happened!
You'll never guess what happened! I got the promotion I've been working towards for two years.
Informal — use only in personal letters to friends or family.
How to Use This Phrase Bank
Don't memorise — understand the function
Learn what each phrase does, not just what it says. Knowing why a phrase works means you can use it flexibly in any essay topic.
Practise in full sentences before your exam
Writing a phrase in isolation is easy. Writing it naturally in the middle of a coherent paragraph is the real skill — practise this every day.
Aim for Band 7–8 phrases but use them naturally
Examiners reward appropriate and accurate use of language. A Band 6–7 phrase used well will always score higher than a Band 7–8 phrase used awkwardly.
Variety matters — do not repeat the same phrase
Using "Furthermore" five times will lower your Lexical Resource score. Aim to vary your linking language throughout each essay.
Related Resources
IELTS Writing Task 2 Guides
Opinion, discussion, problem-solution and advantage-disadvantage essay guides.
AI Writing Evaluator
Submit your essay and get an instant band score with feedback on all 4 criteria.
Writing Practice Mode
Timed writing practice with AI-generated questions — free to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many phrases should I use in a Task 2 essay?▼
There is no fixed number, but a 250–300 word essay should have around 4–6 well-chosen linking phrases spread naturally across the paragraphs. Quantity is never the goal — appropriateness and accuracy are what examiners reward.
Will using advanced phrases improve my band score?▼
Only if they are used accurately and naturally. Copying phrases without understanding their function often leads to awkward sentences that can actually lower your Lexical Resource score. Learn each phrase in context.
What is Lexical Resource in IELTS Writing?▼
Lexical Resource is one of the four marking criteria for IELTS Writing. It assesses the range and accuracy of your vocabulary choices, including your ability to use less common and idiomatic expressions appropriately. It accounts for 25% of your overall Writing band score.
Are these phrases suitable for General Training Writing?▼
Yes. The Task 2 phrases apply to both Academic and General Training Task 2 essays. The General Training Letter Phrases category is specifically designed for Task 1 GT letters, with formal, semi-formal, and informal variants.