Discussion Essays: Useful Language (British Council Academic IELTS: Writing): Study Material
Discussion essays: useful language
Expressing general opinions
Many people believe that
Example: Many people believe that technology has made communication easier.
It is commonly believed that
Example: It is commonly believed that cities offer more opportunities than rural areas.
It is frequently believed that
Example: It is frequently believed that advertising influences people’s behaviour.
It is often believed that
Example: It is often believed that exercise is essential for good health.
It is widely believed that
Example: It is widely believed that climate change is a serious global issue.
Introducing another viewpoint
Some people think that
Example: Some people think that public transport should be free.
It is often thought that
Example: It is often thought that working from home reduces productivity.
It is considered by many that
Example: It is considered by many that university education should be accessible to everyone.
It is considered by some that
Example: It is considered by some that social media does more harm than good.
Others argue that
Example: Others argue that governments should invest more in space exploration.
Presenting arguments
Many argue that
Example: Many argue that stricter laws can reduce crime rates.
It is argued by some that
Example: It is argued by some that renewable energy is the best solution to environmental problems.
It is argued by many that
Example: It is argued by many that tourism benefits local economies.
A common argument is that
Example: A common argument is that children should learn foreign languages at an early age.
One argument in favour of this is that
Example: One argument in favour of this is that online learning is more flexible.
Structuring both sides
On the one hand,
Example: On the one hand, cars provide convenience and save time.
On the other hand,
Example: On the other hand, they contribute to traffic congestion and pollution.
While some people believe that…, others argue that…
Example: While some people believe that exams are necessary, others argue that they cause stress.
Although it is true that…, it is also argued that…
Example: Although it is true that technology improves efficiency, it is also argued that it reduces human interaction.
In contrast,
Example: In contrast, rural areas offer a quieter and healthier lifestyle.
Giving your opinion
I believe that
Example: I believe that governments should invest more in healthcare.
In my opinion,
Example: In my opinion, working from home has more advantages than disadvantages.
From my point of view,
Example: From my point of view, public transport should be improved rather than expanded.
It seems to me that
Example: It seems to me that young people rely too much on technology.
I would argue that
Example: I would argue that education is the key to solving many social problems.
Adding ideas
Furthermore,
Example: Furthermore, this policy could reduce unemployment.
In addition,
Example: In addition, it may improve people’s quality of life.
Moreover,
Example: Moreover, this solution is cost-effective.
What is more,
Example: What is more, it can benefit future generations.
Another point is that
Example: Another point is that this approach encourages innovation.
Giving examples
For example,
Example: For example, many companies now allow employees to work remotely.
For instance,
Example: For instance, some cities have introduced bike-sharing systems.
A good example of this is
Example: A good example of this is the use of solar panels in residential areas.
This can be seen in
Example: This can be seen in countries that invest heavily in education.
Such as
Example: Governments should invest in infrastructure such as roads and railways.
Concluding
In conclusion,
Example: In conclusion, I believe that governments should focus on services that benefit everyone.
To conclude,
Example: To conclude, I agree that this is the best solution to the problem.
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