If you want a Band 7–9 score in IELTS Speaking, vocabulary alone is not enough. Examiners look for natural flow, coherence, and confidence.
One of the easiest ways to upgrade your score is to use native-like speaking phrases correctly — not memorised, but naturally applied.

Below are 10 high-score IELTS speaking phrases, each with:

• ✅ when to use it

• ✅ why it works

• ✅ a real speaking example

1. “To be honest, I hadn’t really thought about it before, but…”

How to use it

Use this phrase when you need thinking time or the question feels unexpected. It sounds natural and relaxed.

Speaking example

To be honest, I hadn’t really thought about it before, but I think public transport should be improved to reduce traffic.

2. “It’s not something I do very often, but when I do…”

How to use it

Perfect for Part 1 lifestyle questions (hobbies, habits, routines).

Speaking example

It’s not something I do very often, but when I do exercise, I usually go jogging in the evening.

3. “I’d say it depends on the situation, because…”

How to use it

Ideal for Part 3 opinion questions that don’t have a clear yes/no answer.

Speaking example

I’d say it depends on the situation, because working from home suits some jobs but not others.

4. “What really stands out to me is…”

How to use it

Use this to highlight your main idea clearly and confidently.

Speaking example

What really stands out to me is how convenient online shopping has become.

5. “I used to think…, but over time I’ve realised…”

How to use it

Shows tense control, reflection, and development — great for higher bands.

Speaking example

I used to think exams were unfair, but over time I’ve realised they help measure progress.

6. “From my experience, it tends to…”

How to use it

Adds a personal tone and avoids over-generalisation.

Speaking example

From my experience, it tends to be easier to learn a language by practising with native speakers.

7. “It plays quite an important role in my daily life.”

How to use it

A flexible phrase for technology, habits, people, or activities.

Speaking example

My smartphone plays quite an important role in my daily life, especially for communication.

8. “If I had to choose one reason, it would be…”

How to use it

Helps you organise your answer and sound clear and confident.

Speaking example

If I had to choose one reason, it would be the flexibility that online work offers.

9. “That’s partly because…, and partly because…”

How to use it

Excellent for explaining two reasons smoothly.

Speaking example

That’s partly because public transport is affordable, and partly because it reduces pollution.

10. “I wouldn’t say I’m an expert, but I think…”

How to use it

A very native way to soften opinions, common in real conversations.

Speaking example

I wouldn’t say I’m an expert, but I think governments should invest more in education.

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(500+ native phrases left)

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