How to Use “Be Opposed to + Noun/Gerund” in IELTS: A Comprehensive Guide

The expression “Be Opposed To + Noun/gerund” is a valuable grammatical structure that can enhance your IELTS score when used correctly. This phrase is commonly used to express disagreement or opposition to an idea, action, or concept. In this guide, we’ll explore its usage, provide examples, and offer tips to effectively incorporate it into your IELTS responses.

Understanding the Structure and Its Significance in IELTS

The phrase “be opposed to” is followed by either a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing). It appears in various sections of the IELTS test, including Reading, Listening, and particularly in Writing and Speaking tasks where you need to express opinions or discuss controversial topics.

Examples:

1. Many citizens are opposed to the new tax policy.
2. Environmental groups are opposed to deforestation in the Amazon.
3. She is opposed to working overtime on weekends.
4. The local community is opposed to the construction of a new airport.
5. Some parents are opposed to children using social media at a young age.

Be Opposed To Structure

Grammar and Usage

Formula and Grammatical Structure

The basic structure is:

[Subject] + [be (conjugated)] + opposed to + [noun/gerund]

It’s crucial to note that the verb “be” changes according to the subject and tense:

• I am opposed to…
• He/She/It is opposed to…
• We/You/They are opposed to…
• They were opposed to… (past tense)

Application in Different IELTS Sections

1. IELTS Writing Task 2:
   This structure is particularly useful in essay writing when discussing controversial topics or presenting opposing viewpoints.

   Example: “While some argue for increased urbanization, environmentalists are opposed to further expansion of cities into natural habitats.”

2. IELTS Speaking Part 3:
   When asked about your opinion on social issues, this phrase can help you articulate your stance clearly.

   Example: “Personally, I am opposed to the idea of mandatory retirement ages, as I believe people should have the freedom to work as long as they are capable.”

3. IELTS Reading:
   Understanding this structure can help you identify authors’ opinions and arguments in reading passages.

4. IELTS Listening:
   Recognizing this phrase can aid in understanding speakers’ attitudes and opinions in various listening tasks.

Sample Responses and Analysis

Writing Task 2 Sample

Topic: Some people believe that governments should ban dangerous sports, while others think individuals should have freedom to choose their activities.

Sample paragraph:
“While proponents of extreme sports argue for personal freedom, many safety advocates are opposed to allowing such high-risk activities. They believe that governments have a responsibility to protect citizens from unnecessary dangers. However, those opposed to banning these sports contend that individuals should have the right to make informed decisions about their own safety. This debate highlights the tension between personal liberty and public welfare.”

Analysis: The use of “are opposed to allowing” and “opposed to banning” demonstrates the ability to present contrasting viewpoints, which is crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2.

Speaking Part 3 Sample

Question: What is your opinion on the use of animals in scientific research?

Sample answer:
“I am strongly opposed to using animals for scientific experiments, especially when it causes them suffering. While I understand the importance of medical research, I believe we should focus on developing alternative methods that don’t involve animal testing. Many ethical scientists are opposed to animal experimentation and are working on innovative solutions like computer simulations and lab-grown tissues. I think it’s crucial to balance scientific progress with ethical considerations and animal welfare.”

Analysis: This response effectively uses the structure twice, showing a range of vocabulary and the ability to express and explain opinions – key factors in scoring well in the IELTS Speaking test.

IELTS Speaking Animal Testing

Strategies for High Band Scores

To achieve higher band scores in IELTS, consider these strategies when using “be opposed to”:

1. Vary your language: While “be opposed to” is useful, also use synonyms like “object to,” “disagree with,” or “stand against” to demonstrate lexical resource.

2. Provide reasoning: Always explain why you or others are opposed to something. This shows depth of thought and improves coherence.

3. Use in complex sentences: Combine with other clauses for more sophisticated structures.
   Example: “Despite the economic benefits, local residents are opposed to the expansion of the airport, arguing that the increased noise pollution would significantly reduce their quality of life.”

4. Apply to different contexts: Use the structure to discuss personal opinions, societal trends, or hypothetical situations to show flexibility.

5. Balance your argument: When using this phrase in Writing Task 2, ensure you present both sides of the argument for a well-rounded essay.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Incorrect preposition:
   Incorrect: “I am opposed of this idea.”
   Correct: “I am opposed to this idea.”

2. Using a bare infinitive instead of a gerund:
   Incorrect: “They are opposed to build the new factory.”
   Correct: “They are opposed to building the new factory.”

3. Forgetting to conjugate ‘be’:
   Incorrect: “He be opposed to the new regulations.”
   Correct: “He is opposed to the new regulations.”

4. Overuse: While it’s a useful structure, overusing it can make your speech or writing repetitive. Aim for variety in your expressions.

5. Misunderstanding the strength of the phrase: “Be opposed to” indicates strong disagreement. Don’t use it for mild preferences.
   Incorrect: “I am opposed to chocolate ice cream.” (unless in a very strong context)
   Better: “I prefer vanilla to chocolate ice cream.”

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “be opposed to + noun/gerund” can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS test. It allows you to express disagreement and discuss controversial topics with clarity and precision. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts and combine it with other advanced grammatical forms to showcase your language proficiency. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, look for opportunities to incorporate this phrase naturally in your responses, always ensuring that you’re using it accurately and appropriately to the context.