How to paraphrase in IELTS exam? 5 methods of paraphrasing

Paraphrasing is an essential skill in the IELTS exam. In the writing tasks, we must avoid using repetitive words and phrases. While in the speaking exam, we must paraphrase the questions raised by the examiner. But what exactly is paraphrasing? How do we paraphrase? Paraphrase means to simply repeat something written or spoken by using different words or phrases. It is easy to learn! Here are 5 methods of paraphrasing.

1. Synonym

The simplest way of paraphrasing is to use synonyms to replace the words in the sentence and form a different sentence.

The development of technology brings negative influences on our society.

→ Technology advancement brings a sizable impact to our society.

2. Word order

Changing the word order in the sentence is also one of the methods to paraphrase. But be mindful of the grammar when you try this method! You must make sure that there are no grammatical mistakes after the rearrangements.

In many places, large chain stores are taking over the marketplace.

→ Large chain stores are taking over the marketplace in many places.

You can replace the words with synonyms along with this method to achieve a higher score.

In many places, large chain stores are taking over the marketplace.

→ Big corporations are monopolizing the market business at every corner.

3. Word form

There are different word forms like noun, adjective and verb. We can paraphrase a sentence through changing the word form of the words in the sentence. But remember to make sure the grammar is right. In some cases, the order should also be altered to meet the grammatical accuracy.

To conclude, although existing employers have a good reputation in the workplace because they have been working here for a long time, they cannot survive without the help of candidates from the outside.

→ It is concluded that although existing employers are well-reputed in the work because of their long working hours, they cannot survive without the help of outsider candidates.

4. Rewrite into the opposite

In this method, we are rewriting the words in the sentence in an opposite meaning to form a new sentence with the exact meaning.

Both models suggested that innovation is rarely a successful strategy for parties out of power.

→ Neither model suggests that innovation is an effective strategy for parties out of power.

5. Active / passive

The last method is to change the active voice into passive voice, or vice versa.

I agree that the existence of these media leads to a reduction in cultural disparities.

→ It is agreed that the existence of these media leads to a reduction in cultural disparities.

Achieve band 7 or above in the IETLS exam by learning the above methods!

If you wish to know your English level, please check the quiz out below!