Key Phrases for Writing Essays in English

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  • Post last modified:24/10/2023
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Key phrases for writing essays in English. Learn to write essays in English like a pro. I’ll give you 15 important phrases you can use in your essays in English.

These essential English phrases will improve your writing skills and assist you in formal writing for essays, exams, presentations, and reports.

Listen to the podcast Speak Better English with Harry or watch it on YouTube at Learn English with Harry. englishclass101

List of essential English phrases

Key Phrases for Writing Essays in English

Most of the phrases I’m going to give you now are really good for more formal types of writing.

If you’re writing an essay for a particular exam, whether it be IELTS, FCE, or CAE, these expressions are genuinely useful. 

I’ve divided them into different sections, but it’s all about phrases that you would use to make your English sound a little better.

In English proficiency exams, particularly IELTS and CAE, the examiner loves to see these types of phrases used because it indicates that you have a better understanding of the English language.

expressing an opinion

1️⃣ it’s probably true to say that

Meaning: use it in your essay to convey that your statement is likely to be accurate

Examples:

It is probably true to say that most people never travel to more than six countries in a year.

It’s probably true to say that ice cream is one of the most beloved desserts worldwide.

2️⃣ there can be no doubt that

Meaning: use it in your essay to make your opinion sound very sure and strong

Examples:

There can be no doubt that learning a new language is challenging, but also rewarding.

There can be no doubt that the shortest and darkest days occur in winter.

3️⃣ it is simply not the case that

Meaning: use it in your essay to strongly disagree with a common belief or idea

Examples:

It is simply not the case that everyone enjoys black humour.

It is simply not the case that all students enjoy math; some find it quite challenging.

Key Phrases for Writing Essays in English

Key Phrases for Writing Essays in English. Improve English writing skills. Upgrade your vocabulary. English grammar rules. Improve English speaking. Advanced English lessons on Zoom and Skype. Improve English speaking and writing skills. #learnenglish

commonly held views

1️⃣ it is widely believed that…

Meaning: use it in your essay to express common opinions or ideas that many people agree with

Examples:

It is widely believed that regular exercise is beneficial for maintaining good health.

It is widely believed that a balanced diet plays a crucial role in promoting overall well-being.

2️⃣ no one would dispute the fact that…

Meaning: use it to emphasise that your opinion is widely accepted and rarely challenged

Examples:

No one would dispute the fact that clean drinking water is essential for human survival.

No one would dispute the fact that education is a fundamental right for all children.

3️⃣ few people would contest/dispute (the fact) that

Meaning: most people would agree with your statement

Examples:

Few people would dispute the fact that protecting the environment is crucial for the future.

Few people would contest the fact that technology has transformed the way we communicate.

4️⃣ it is generally agreed that…

Meaning: use it in your essay when you want to express a widely accepted viewpoint

Examples:

It is generally agreed that breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

It is generally agreed that good communication skills are essential in the workplace.

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saying what other people think

1️⃣ there are those who argue that…

Meaning: is used to introduce an opposing viewpoint or perspective

Examples:

There are those who argue that people should have to pay for their hospital care.

There are those who argue that nothing should be free.

2️⃣ it has been suggested that…

Meaning: use it in your essay to make your opinion sound very sure and strong

Examples:

It has been suggested that getting enough sleep is important for staying alert during the day.

It has been suggested that people who pay for their hospital care are more likely to appreciate it.

3️⃣ it is often claimed that…

Meaning: use it in your essay when many people say or believe something

Examples:

It is often claimed that parents with 3 or 4 children struggle more with control than those with 1 child.

It is often claimed that chocolate makes people happy.

4️⃣ opponents/supporters/proponents of (something) argue that

Meaning: a way to introduce differing opinions or perspectives on a specific topic

Examples:

Opponents of increased taxes argue that they harm the economy.

Proponents of renewable energy argue that it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Key Phrases for Writing Essays in English

Key Phrases for Writing Essays in English. Improve English writing skills. Upgrade your vocabulary. English grammar rules. Improve English speaking. Advanced English lessons on Zoom and Skype. Improve English speaking and writing skills. #learnenglish

referring to sources

1️⃣ all the evidence suggests that…

Meaning: introduce a statement or argument supported by substantial evidence or data

Examples:

All the evidence suggests that reading regularly can improve your vocabulary.

All the evidence suggests that reducing sugar intake is beneficial for overall health.

2️⃣ a recent survey proved that…

Meaning: a survey provided concrete evidence or findings to support a particular statement or claim

Examples:

A recent survey proved that the majority of people prefer to work from home.

A recent survey proved that the new recycling program has increased recycling rates in our community.

3️⃣ judging by the comments made by…

Meaning: is used to refer to others’ opinions or remarks as support for your argument

Examples:

Judging by the comments made by our customers, our new product is well-received.

Judging by the comments made by the audience, the performance was a huge success.

4️⃣ interviews with (sb) have revealed that…

Meaning: use it in your essay to strongly disagree with a common belief or idea

Examples:

Interviews with teachers have revealed that classroom technology enhances students’ learning experiences.

Interviews with students have revealed that 80% of students will drop out of college if they get bad marks.

So here are key phrases for writing essays in English. Examiners love them as they demonstrate a strong command of English.

Include a few in each paragraph to boost your chances of a high score. For additional help or suggestions, visit www.englishlessonviaskype.com.

I’m here to assist with any information you require. Thanks for watching and listening. Join me for the next lesson.

speak better English with Harry podcast- episode 454

more information

For more information on English grammar rules, English collocations and English idioms, check out the links below:

Intermediate English travel vocabulary

English FOOD idioms

You can always study English advanced level at Learning English with the BBC and British Council Learn English.

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