Paraphrasing is one of the most powerful skills for boosting your IELTS Writing and Speaking scores. Examiners award higher bands when you can express ideas in different words without changing the meaning. In fact, IELTS band descriptors mention “flexibility and range of vocabulary” – and paraphrasing proves both.
Why Paraphrasing Matters in IELTS
- Writing Task 1 & 2: You must restate the question in the introduction to avoid repetition and show lexical resource.
- Speaking Part 3: Examiners look for your ability to rephrase or elaborate when asked follow-up questions.
- Reading & Listening: Recognising paraphrased information is key to matching answers correctly.
Step-by-Step IELTS Paraphrasing Techniques
1. Synonym Replacement
Use a word or phrase with the same meaning.
Original: Many people believe that exercise is essential for good health.
Paraphrase: Numerous individuals think that physical activity is vital for well-being.
Tip: Check collocations—use take exercise or do physical activity correctly.
2. Change the Sentence Structure
Alter the grammar while keeping meaning intact.
Convert active to passive:
Scientists discovered a new planet. → A new planet was discovered by scientists.
Use different clause types:
Because pollution is rising, cities are investing in green transport. → Cities are investing in green transport due to the rise in pollution.
3. Use Different Word Forms
Transform nouns to verbs, adjectives to adverbs, etc.
The decision was difficult. → Deciding proved difficult.
Technology is advancing quickly. → Rapid technological advancement is evident.
4. Break or Combine Sentences
Split a long sentence or merge short ones.
The government introduced strict laws. These laws reduced traffic accidents.
→ By introducing strict laws, the government reduced traffic accidents.
5. Use Phrases or Idiomatic Expressions (Carefully)
People are worried about climate change.
→ Climate change has raised public concern.
Practice Ideas
- Daily News Rewrite: Pick a short news article and rewrite each paragraph in your own words.
- Speaking Mirror Practice: Record yourself answering a Part 3 question, then say it again using different wording.
- IELTS Cambridge Books: Rewrite sample answers or questions.
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Our IELTS Vocabulary eBook covers 1000+ exam-focused terms to boost your paraphrasing skills.
Sample IELTS Introduction Paraphrases
Task Question:
Some people think that governments should spend money on public services rather than arts such as music or theatre. To what extent do you agree?
Paraphrase 1:
Many argue that government funding ought to prioritise essential public services over the arts, including music and theatre.
Paraphrase 2:
It is often believed that public funds should be allocated to services for citizens instead of artistic activities like concerts or stage performances.
Quick IELTS Paraphrasing Checklist
- Same meaning, different words or structure
- Correct grammar and collocations
- Natural, academic vocabulary
- No overuse of rare or awkward synonyms
Final Thoughts
Mastering paraphrasing is not about memorising synonyms. It’s about flexibility, grammar awareness, and practice. Build this skill and you’ll see a direct impact on your IELTS Writing Task 1 & 2 as well as Speaking Part 3 scores—moving you closer to that Band 7 or higher.