Useful Phrases for Speaking Test Part 4

Another collection of handy phrases to use in the speaking test.

Buying Time

I've never really thought about that, but...

What a good question!

That's a good question.

That's an interesting question.

Oh! Let me think. Well, ...


Why do you think many American people vote for Donald Trump?
That’s a very interesting question. Let me think... perhaps it’s because he has magnificent hair.

Giving Your Opinion

What I think is that...

In my opinion, ...

It's clear to me that...

One thing I'm sure of is...

I might be wrong but ...

I'm no expert but...


Do you think it’s useful to have a careers day in school?
It’s clear to me that young people need help choosing a career, so a careers day might be good for them. I’m no expert but I’m sure those days have helped a lot of people get ideas for the future.

Giving Reasons for Your Opinions

... because ....

... so it's obvious that...

... That means...


What things do you need to think about when choosing a career?
The first thing is money. That means knowing how much you will be paid in the career you choose.

Adding Reasons

Another thing is...

Apart from that, ...

As well as that, ...

Just as importantly, ...

There's also the fact that...

And don't forget...


Just as importantly, you have to choose a career with work that you enjoy.

Asking Your Speaking Partner

What do you think, Jack?

Don't you agree?

Do you have anything to say about that?

Jack, do you have anything to add to that?

Did I forget anything?


Interrupting Politely

Do you mind if I add something?

I'd like to comment on that.

If I could just make a point.


Trying to Change an Opinion

But don't you think that...

Yes, but isn't it true that...

Okay, but on the other hand...

Maybe there's another way to think about it.

You're partly right, but...


I think money isn’t the most important thing when you choose a career. The most important thing is to have fun every day.
You’re partly right, but if you want a nice flat or if you have a family, you have to think about how much money the job pays. Don’t you think?

Do you know any other useful phrases that should be added to the list? Let us know in the comments!


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