IELTS Functional English: How to use fillers to help your fluency

IELTS Part 3: Functional English

IELTS Functional English: Fillers

During Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking Exam it’s a good idea to try to respond to the examiner’s questions immediately rather than waiting a few seconds while you come up with something to say. There are lots of ‘fillers’ you can use which give you the chance to respond immediately yet give you a moment to collect your thoughts.

We've listed some example fillers below. You'll also have the chance to practise using them in response to questions.

Example Fillers

Look at this list of commonly-used fillers. How confident are you that you could use them in response to a question?

That's a good question ...
It's funny you should ask ...
Well, to cut a long story short ...
Well, to be honest ...
It's difficult to say ...
Let me think ...
Well, let me see ...
That’s a tricky one ...

Practise Using Fillers

Click the play buttons below and try answering the following questions using an appropriate filler. Each question is on the subject of 'Leisure'.

IELTS Functional English

Now practise expressing opinions.

Current functions
Using fillers
Expressing opinions
Speculating
Comparing
Likes and dislikes

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