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4. Master IELTS Academic Writing Task 2: Agree/Disagree Essay – Full Step-by-Step Tutorial, Band 9 Model, Practice, and Key Vocabulary

Unlock your highest IELTS Writing Task 2 score with this ultra-interactive Agree/Disagree essay tutorial! Get a step-by-step strategy guide, real Band 9 sample answer, 20 crucial words and phrases (with definitions and examples), and two advanced practice exercises—all in a beautifully designed, mobile-friendly WordPress module. Includes instant feedback, detailed explanations, and direct submission for expert review. Perfect for students aiming for Band 7–9! - Master IELTS Academic Writing Task 2: Agree/Disagree Essay – Full Step-by-Step Tutorial, Band 9 Model, Practice, and Key Vocabulary - LingExam Language Academy - Lingexam.com

IELTS Writing Task 2 (Agree/Disagree) — Step‑by‑Step Tutorial | LingExam

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 — Agree/Disagree Essay (LingExam | High‑Band Strategy with Templates & Examples)

Goal: master the classic “To what extent do you agree or disagree?” prompt with a crystal‑clear stance, disciplined paragraphing, and evidence‑driven reasoning. You’ll learn to analyse the proposition, calibrate your degree of agreement, plan fast, and deliver tightly focused paragraphs that score across Task Response, Coherence & Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammar Range & Accuracy. Hover each step to get a gentle glow that guides your attention.

13 Pro Steps to Ace the Agree/Disagree Essay

1
Identify the claim and the strength of the required stance. The prompt asks whether you agree or disagree, but the phrase “to what extent” lets you choose full, strong, moderate, or limited agreement. Underline the proposition core (e.g., “technology has made life more complex”), circle scope limits (“for children,” “in cities,” “in the workplace”), and mark any time frame (“today,” “in the future”). Decide fast whether the claim is evaluative (good/bad), causal (X causes Y), prescriptive (should/should not), or predictive (will/won’t), because that controls your evidence type. Promise yourself a one‑line thesis expressing degree and reason. Map 4 paragraphs: Introduction → Body 1 (why your stance holds) → Body 2 (another reason + rebuttal) → Conclusion. Avoid drifting into “both views” format; this task wants your position foregrounded. If the statement is extreme, consider a qualified agreement (e.g., “largely agree provided that…”). This early labelling prevents off‑task development and saves minutes later.
2
Rewrite the proposition as two precise, testable reasons you can explain. Replace vague ideas with mechanism‑based claims (e.g., “standardised testing narrows curricula by reallocating teaching time”). Keep each reason one idea wide so a paragraph can fully develop it. Draft a compact scenario or policy example for each reason; believable specifics outrank invented statistics. Check alignment: if you plan to “mostly agree,” ensure that both body paragraphs actually support agreement rather than describing general background. Note a likely counter‑point the examiner might expect; you will neutralise it briefly inside a reasoned rebuttal sentence. This conversion from topic to claims + examples gives you something to analyse rather than describe, which is essential for Band‑8+ coherence.
3
Write a calibrated thesis with scope control. Use stance adverbs and quantifiers (“largely,” “to a great extent,” “in most contexts,” “with notable exceptions”) to avoid absolutism unless it’s clearly justified. Pair your stance with two abstract reasons that preview body logic without listing examples. Example: “I largely agree because the policy improves measurable outcomes and directs resources where need is greatest.” Keep grammar tight: one main clause for stance + one coordinated rationale. Avoid meta‑language like “This essay will argue…”; the thesis itself is the argument map. A readable thesis lets the examiner predict a coherent structure and begins satisfying Task Response immediately.
4
Use a three‑move intro: (1) one‑sentence context framing the topic neutrally; (2) paraphrase the claim faithfully without distorting scope; (3) deliver your calibrated thesis. Stay within ~40–55 words. Avoid historical digressions, dictionary definitions, or quotes: they waste time and invite irrelevance. Keep tone formal‑natural; everyday verbs beat ornate synonyms. Do not stuff examples here—save them for the body where they can be explained properly. A lean intro prevents repetition in the conclusion.
5
Follow the SEE(R) spine: Statement → Explanation → Example → Result(+Rebuttal). Start with a crisp topic sentence that asserts your key reason. Explain the mechanism: how does cause lead to outcome? Add a compact, believable example (policy, classroom, workplace, city case). Finish with a result line that ties directly back to the proposition’s metric (learning quality, productivity, safety, equity, etc.). If a popular counter‑point threatens the claim, include a surgical rebuttal clause (“even though critics argue X, the data pathway Y limits that risk”). This paragraph should clearly advance your agreement—not merely describe the situation.
6
Choose a different angle than Body 1. If your first reason was efficiency‑centred, make the second human‑centred (fairness, wellbeing, opportunity). Repeat SEE(R), but vary your lexis and connectors to avoid repetition. Insert one sentence that acknowledges a reasonable concern and then limits it with scope or conditions (“This risk is mitigated when…”). Keep topic sentences similar in length and structure to signal balance. End with a clear link back to the thesis to reinforce your consistent stance.
7
Use calibrated stance markers to match your evidence. Phrases like “to a large extent,” “in most scenarios,” or “with limited exceptions” show nuanced judgement. Avoid mixed signals: don’t say “completely agree” and then present mostly balanced or conditional reasons. Align your adverbs with the weight of your body claims. This harmony protects coherence and prevents the conclusion from sounding inconsistent with your development.
8
Keep the lens on the proposition. You may acknowledge the opposing side briefly to strengthen your case, but the paragraph purpose is to support your stance, not to build a full debate. Avoid symmetrical treatment of both sides—that belongs to Discussion essays. Each sentence should either explain your mechanism, anchor it with an example, or connect it back to the prompt. Delete filler and general knowledge that doesn’t prove your claim.
9
Aim for four paragraphs and ~260–310 words. Intro (3–4 sentences), Body 1 (5–6), Body 2 (5–6), Conclusion (2). If you are a slower writer, cut the intro to 2–3 sentences and keep examples ultra‑compact. Quality of mechanism beats quantity of claims; two fully developed reasons outperform three shallow ones. Finish 2–3 minutes early for a micro‑check.
10
Prefer exact verbs and natural noun pairs. Use collocations like “allocate resources,” “undermine motivation,” “foster collaboration,” “standardised assessment,” “evidence‑based policy.” Avoid thesaurus swaps that break collocation (“fabricate attention” ❌). Paraphrase the question with natural transformations, not rare words that distort meaning. Recycle key topic nouns consistently to preserve referential cohesion.
11
Mix simple clarity with controlled complexity. Use clean simple sentences for core claims, plus occasional complex sentences for nuance (relative clauses, concessive clauses, non‑finite clauses). Use modals for calibrated stance (“may,” “might,” “should”) and conditionals for policies or scenarios. Avoid comma splices; punctuate contrasts cleanly. Watch articles in topic nouns and subject–verb agreement in abstract subjects.
12
Write a two‑sentence close. Line 1: restate degree of agreement and the core logic linking your reasons. Line 2: add a scope or condition if relevant (“especially where…,” “provided that…”). Do not add new examples. Keep ~30–40 words so the close feels decisive and aligned with the thesis.
13
Drill a mini‑plan you can trust. (1) Label task + stance degree (20–30s). (2) Draft two mechanism‑based reasons (60–90s). (3) Note one believable example per reason (30–45s). (4) Write the one‑line thesis (20–30s). (5) Outline paragraph sentences as bullets (60–90s). This habit reduces hesitation, keeps you on‑task, and makes proofreading time realistic.

Universal Fill‑in‑the‑Gap Template (Click to Copy)

[Introduction]
[Neutral context one sentence]. I [fully/largely/partly] agree that [rephrase the proposition], primarily because [reason 1—mechanism] and [reason 2—mechanism/condition].

[Body Paragraph 1 — Strongest Reason]
[Topic sentence stating reason 1]. This is because [explain the causal/mechanistic pathway]. For example, [compact, believable scenario/policy/case]. As a result, [explicit outcome tied to the proposition].

[Body Paragraph 2 — Complementary Reason + Brief Rebuttal]
[Topic sentence stating reason 2]. Specifically, [mechanism/why it works]. For instance, [short, credible example]. [One‑sentence rebuttal limiting a common counter‑point]. Consequently, [outcome linked to the thesis].

[Conclusion]
[Degree of agreement restated] because [condensed logic of reason 1 + reason 2]; this holds [scope/conditions if any].
Tip: Keep each body on a single core mechanism. Swap italics with your own keywords and scenarios.

Quick Micro‑Practice (Plug‑and‑Play Prompts)

• “University education should be free for everyone.” To what extent do you agree or disagree?

• “Remote work increases productivity and should be encouraged by employers.” To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Official‑Level Task: Agree/Disagree Essay

Question: Some people argue that governments should ban private car use in city centres to improve air quality and reduce congestion. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write at least 250 words. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

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Reminder: State your stance clearly (fully, largely, or partly agree/disagree). Build two tightly focused body paragraphs that prove your stance with mechanisms and realistic examples. End with a concise, non‑repetitive conclusion.

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Model Answer & Deep Explanation — Agree/Disagree

Below is a high‑band sample for the Agree/Disagree prompt, followed by a sentence‑level explanation showing how each move satisfies IELTS band descriptors. Hover any paragraph or step to see a gentle glow.

Band‑9 Style Sample (Agree/Largely Agree)
0 words

Private cars have long symbolised convenience and personal freedom, yet their mass use in dense urban cores produces costs that city residents cannot avoid. I largely agree that governments should ban private car use in city centres, because targeted restrictions improve air quality measurably and restore street capacity to people and essential services.

First, banning private cars from the most congested districts immediately reduces local emissions and health risks. Idling engines and stop‑start driving concentrate pollutants where pedestrians live, study and work, and these exposures correlate with respiratory and cardiovascular problems. When through‑traffic is removed, buses and delivery fleets can be electrified faster, and the remaining trips occur at steadier speeds that minimise particulate spikes. Cleaner air is not a cosmetic upgrade; it is a public‑health dividend that lowers hospital burden and improves daily wellbeing.

Second, reclaiming central streets from private cars unlocks scarce space for more efficient modes. Dedicated bus corridors and protected cycle lanes carry many more people per hour than mixed car traffic, stabilising travel times and widening access for students, low‑income workers and visitors. Pedestrian‑first centres also boost local commerce: footfall rises when streets are safe, quiet and attractive, and small businesses benefit from window browsing rather than queues of stationary vehicles. In effect, the same asphalt serves more people, more fairly.

Critics contend that blanket bans are unfair to residents, traders and people with mobility needs. This concern is reasonable, yet it is not a reason to keep the status quo. Exemptions for emergency vehicles, disability permits and time‑limited access for loading can preserve essential trips without reopening floodgates to routine car commuting. Park‑and‑ride hubs, perimeter car parks and discounted transit passes further reduce disruption while reinforcing the shift away from door‑to‑door driving.

In summary, city‑centre car bans—paired with pragmatic exemptions and strong alternatives—deliver cleaner air, faster person‑throughput and more liveable streets. While peripheral areas may require different mixes of measures, dense cores gain the most when private cars are the exception rather than the rule. For these reasons, I agree to a large extent that governments should prohibit private car use in city centres.

1
The opening sentence frames the topic neutrally (convenience vs public costs) before stating a calibrated stance (“largely agree”), which satisfies Task Response by signalling degree and direction immediately.
2
The thesis pairs stance + two abstract reasons (“air quality” and “restore street capacity”), previewing body logic without listing examples; this aligns with high‑band coherence practices.
3
Body 1 follows SEE(R): Topic statement (ban → lower emissions) → mechanism (idling/stop‑start) → effect (health correlations) → result (public‑health dividend). Clear causality strengthens cohesion.
4
Lexis is precise but natural: “concentrate pollutants,” “particulate spikes,” “public‑health dividend.” Collocations are intact, boosting Lexical Resource without sounding memorised.
5
Body 1 avoids invented statistics; instead, it uses widely accepted mechanisms (exposure → health risk), which is safer and more credible for IELTS marking.
6
Body 2 changes angle from environment to efficiency/equity (throughput, stability, access), ensuring development is not repetitive and demonstrating idea range.
7
“Carry many more people per hour” and “stabilising travel times” tie the paragraph to measurable outcomes, linking claims directly to the policy proposition (ban → efficiency).
8
The business/footfall sentence widens the argument to economic effects, showing evaluative breadth beyond transport metrics while keeping relevance tight.
9
A targeted rebuttal paragraph acknowledges fairness concerns, demonstrating critical distance and preventing the essay from sounding one‑eyed.
10
The rebuttal is solution‑oriented: exemptions, loading windows, and permits show how to keep essential trips without collapsing the ban—this is high‑band argumentative technique.
11
Park‑and‑ride and perimeter parking provide realistic alternatives, adding policy plausibility instead of abstract hand‑waving.
12
Sentence variety is controlled: simple sentences deliver main claims; complex ones add conditions and contrasts, displaying Grammar Range with accuracy.
13
Reference chains stay consistent (“ban,” “private cars,” “central streets”), reducing pronoun ambiguity and reinforcing cohesion.
14
Stance language is calibrated (“largely agree,” “paired with pragmatic exemptions”), preventing overgeneralisation while keeping the essay decisively pro‑ban.
15
Paragraph lengths are balanced and the total word count stays in the 260–310 range, allowing depth plus proof‑reading time in a 40‑minute window.
16
Logical connectors are varied and minimal (“First,” “Second,” “Critics contend… Yet…,” “In summary”), avoiding mechanical linkage and improving flow.
17
The conclusion echoes the thesis and adds scope (“peripheral areas may require different mixes”), which shows nuance without introducing new arguments.
18
Word choice keeps academic tone while remaining readable: verbs like “unlock,” “reclaim,” “reinforcing” convey process and agency succinctly.
19
The essay directly answers the exact task (“ban private car use in city centres”) rather than drifting to general traffic topics, protecting Task Response.
20
Overall, the response presents two mechanism‑rich reasons, a realistic rebuttal, calibrated stance language, and tight cohesion—features consistent with Band 8/9 performance.

20 Crucial Words for the Agree/Disagree Essay (City‑Centre Car Bans)

Expand each item to see British & American IPA, parts of speech, word pattern(s), a context‑based definition, an example sentence with a quick meaning note, a useful synonym, and common learner mistakes. Hover to see a subtle glow on desktop. Everything stacks neatly on mobile.

ban/bæn/ · /bæn/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C); verb (T)

Word pattern(s): impose/lift a ban on + noun/gerund; ban + noun/gerund

Definition: an official prohibition; to officially prohibit something by law or policy.

Example: The city imposed a ban on private cars within the historic centre. (Meaning: official stop.)

Synonym: prohibit(ion)

Common mistakes: Don’t write “ban to do”; use “ban doing” or “ban + noun”.

prohibit/prəˈhɪbɪt/ · /proʊˈhɪbɪt/

Part(s) of speech: verb (T)

Word pattern(s): prohibit + noun/gerund; prohibit sb from doing sth

Definition: to forbid by law or authority.

Example: The ordinance prohibits cars from entering during peak hours. (Meaning: law forbids.)

Synonym: forbid

Common mistakes: Use “prohibit from doing,” not “prohibit to do.”

exemption/ɪɡˈzempʃn/ · /ɪɡˈzempʃən/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C/U)

Word pattern(s): exemption for/from; grant an exemption to + sb

Definition: official permission not to follow a rule.

Example: Disability permits qualify for exemptions from the car‑free zone. (Meaning: allowed exception.)

Synonym: exception, waiver

Common mistakes: Preposition: “exemption from a rule,” not “exemption of a rule.”

congestion/kənˈdʒestʃən/ · /kənˈdʒestʃən/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U)

Word pattern(s): reduce/relieve congestion; congestion charge/zone

Definition: overcrowding of roads causing delays.

Example: Car‑free streets sharply reduce congestion near schools. (Meaning: fewer traffic jams.)

Synonym: gridlock

Common mistakes: Do not pluralise generally: ✗ “congestions.”

air quality/eə ˈkwɒləti/ · /er ˈkwɑːləti/

Part(s) of speech: noun phrase (U)

Word pattern(s): improve/protect air quality; poor/urban air quality

Definition: the condition of the air, especially its pollution level.

Example: Banning idling cars improves air quality for pedestrians. (Meaning: cleaner air.)

Synonym: atmospheric cleanliness

Common mistakes: Not “air’s quality”; use the set phrase “air quality.”

particulate matter (PM)/pɑːˈtɪkjʊlət ˈmætə/ · /pɑːrˈtɪkjələt ˈmætər/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U)

Word pattern(s): PM2.5/PM10; reduce particulate matter

Definition: tiny particles in the air that can harm health.

Example: Less stop‑start traffic cuts particulate matter near pavements. (Meaning: fewer harmful particles.)

Synonym: fine particles

Common mistakes: Spelling: “particulate,” not “particular.”

idling/ˈaɪdlɪŋ/ · /ˈaɪdlɪŋ/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U); verb: idle (I)

Word pattern(s): anti‑idling rule; vehicles idle at + place

Definition: running an engine while the vehicle is not moving.

Example: Anti‑idling laws reduce diesel fumes around schools. (Meaning: stop engines wasting fuel.)

Synonym: engine running stationary

Common mistakes: Not “idolling”; watch the spelling and double‑l error.

throughput/ˈθruːpʊt/ · /ˈθruːpʊt/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U)

Word pattern(s): throughput per lane/hour; increase throughput

Definition: the number of people or goods moved through a system per time.

Example: Bus corridors raise throughput compared with mixed car traffic. (Meaning: move more people.)

Synonym: capacity

Common mistakes: One word, not “through put”.

pedestrianisation / pedestrianization/pəˌdestriənaɪˈzeɪʃn/ · /pəˌdɛstriənəˈzeɪʃn/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U); verb: pedestrianise/pedestrianize (T)

Word pattern(s): pedestrianise + street/zone; a pedestrianised area

Definition: converting streets for walking only, removing general traffic.

Example: Pedestrianisation of the centre has boosted footfall and safety. (Meaning: car‑free for walkers.)

Synonym: car‑free conversion

Common mistakes: Keep the “‑ise/‑ize” consistent throughout your essay.

externality/ˌekstɜːˈnæləti/ · /ˌekstɜːrˈnæləti/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C)

Word pattern(s): negative/positive externality; externalities of X

Definition: side‑effects on others not reflected in the price (e.g., pollution).

Example: Private cars impose negative externalities such as noise and fumes. (Meaning: costs others bear.)

Synonym: spillover effect

Common mistakes: Don’t use “external effects” in academic tone; use “externalities.”

equity/ˈekwɪti/ · /ˈekwəti/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U)

Word pattern(s): equity in access; promote/advance equity

Definition: fairness in how resources or opportunities are distributed.

Example: Exemptions safeguard equity in access for people with disabilities. (Meaning: fair treatment.)

Synonym: fairness, justice

Common mistakes: Don’t confuse with “equality”; equity ≠ identical treatment.

enforce/ɪnˈfɔːs/ · /ɪnˈfɔːrs/

Part(s) of speech: verb (T); noun: enforcement (U)

Word pattern(s): enforce a rule/ban; strict/consistent enforcement

Definition: to make people obey a rule, often with penalties.

Example: Cameras help enforce the low‑emission zone effectively. (Meaning: ensure compliance.)

Synonym: implement (a law)

Common mistakes: Not “force people obey”; say “enforce a rule” or “enforce compliance”.

compliance/kəmˈplaɪəns/ · /kəmˈplaɪəns/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U)

Word pattern(s): compliance with + rule/standard

Definition: the act of following rules or requests.

Example: Visible signage increases compliance with access restrictions. (Meaning: obeying rules.)

Synonym: adherence

Common mistakes: Preposition: “compliance with,” not “to.”

stakeholder/ˈsteɪkˌhəʊldə/ · /ˈsteɪkˌhoʊldər/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C)

Word pattern(s): key/public/private stakeholders; engage stakeholders

Definition: people or groups affected by or able to influence a decision.

Example: Traders and residents are crucial stakeholders in city‑centre policy. (Meaning: interested parties.)

Synonym: interested party

Common mistakes: Not “stack holder”; pronounce /steɪk‑/ not /stæk‑/.

subsidy/ˈsʌbsɪdi/ · /ˈsʌbsədi/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C); verb: subsidise/subsidize (T)

Word pattern(s): provide/grant a subsidy; subsidise fares/operations

Definition: money paid by a government to lower costs for users or providers.

Example: Fare subsidies help commuters shift from cars to buses. (Meaning: financial support.)

Synonym: financial support

Common mistakes: Spelling “subsidy,” not “subsidity.”

electrification/ɪˌlektrɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ · /ɪˌlɛktrɪfəˈkeɪʃn/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U); verb: electrify (T)

Word pattern(s): electrification of buses/fleets; electrify + fleet/network

Definition: switching vehicles/equipment to electric power.

Example: Bus electrification magnifies the air‑quality gains from car bans. (Meaning: make vehicles electric.)

Synonym: transition to electric

Common mistakes: Don’t confuse with “electrocution” (injury!).

bottleneck/ˈbɒtlnek/ · /ˈbɑːtlˌnek/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C)

Word pattern(s): relieve/remove a bottleneck; a traffic bottleneck at + place

Definition: a point where flow is restricted and delays build up.

Example: Time‑limited loading windows prevent bottlenecks at entries. (Meaning: avoid choke points.)

Synonym: choke point

Common mistakes: Use “at” not “of”: “bottleneck at the junction.”

feasibility/ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/ · /ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U); adj.: feasible

Word pattern(s): assess/test feasibility; feasibility of + noun/gerund

Definition: practicality or workability of a plan.

Example: The feasibility of an all‑day ban depends on transit capacity. (Meaning: whether it can work.)

Synonym: practicality

Common mistakes: Use “feasible to do / that…,” not “feasible for do.”

mitigate/ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ · /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/

Part(s) of speech: verb (T); noun: mitigation (U)

Word pattern(s): mitigate + risk/impact/congestion

Definition: to make something less severe or harmful.

Example: Park‑and‑ride hubs mitigate disruption for suburban drivers. (Meaning: reduce negatives.)

Synonym: alleviate, reduce

Common mistakes: Not “mitigate against” in this sense; use a direct object.

trade‑off/ˈtreɪd ɒf/ · /ˈtreɪd ɔːf/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C)

Word pattern(s): a trade‑off between A and B

Definition: a situation where improving one factor harms another.

Example: There is a trade‑off between car speed and pedestrian safety. (Meaning: balancing goals.)

Synonym: compromise

Common mistakes: Keep the hyphen: “trade‑off,” not “trade off” (noun).

livelihood/ˈlaɪvlihʊd/ · /ˈlaɪvlihʊd/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C/U)

Word pattern(s): protect/affect livelihoods; livelihood of + group

Definition: means of earning money needed to live.

Example: Delivery‑vehicle exemptions protect the livelihoods of small traders. (Meaning: income source.)

Synonym: income, means of support

Common mistakes: Not “lifehood.” Mind the v sound /laɪv‑/.

amenity/əˈmiːnɪti/ · /əˈmiːnəti/

Part(s) of speech: noun (C)

Word pattern(s): urban amenities; access to amenities

Definition: something (parks, shops, services) that makes a place pleasant or convenient.

Example: Car‑free streets make amenities safer and more attractive to families. (Meaning: useful facilities.)

Synonym: facility, convenience

Common mistakes: Countable in the plural for types: “amenities,” not “amenity’s.”

livability / liveability/ˌlɪvəˈbɪləti/ · /ˌlɪvəˈbɪləti/

Part(s) of speech: noun (U)

Word pattern(s): improve/undermine livability; urban livability

Definition: how pleasant and healthy it is to live in a place.

Example: Reduced noise and fumes increase livability in dense cores. (Meaning: better everyday life.)

Synonym: quality of life

Common mistakes: BrE often “liveability,” AmE “livability”; be consistent in one essay.

calibrated/ˈkælɪbreɪtɪd/ · /ˈkælɪbreɪtɪd/

Part(s) of speech: adjective

Word pattern(s): calibrated stance/language/measures

Definition: carefully adjusted in degree; measured rather than extreme.

Example: A calibrated stance (“largely agree”) sounds more academic than absolutes. (Meaning: balanced tone.)

Synonym: measured, nuanced

Common mistakes: Not “calibrate stance” (verb) when you need the adjective “calibrated.”

20 Crucial Phrases & Expressions (Agree/Disagree — City‑Centre Car Bans)

Tap to expand each phrase. You’ll see BrE/AmE IPA, pattern(s), an IELTS‑friendly definition, a model sentence + brief gloss, a synonym, and common mistakes. Hovering adds a soft glow; everything stacks perfectly on mobile.

to a large extent/tʊ ə lɑːdʒ ɪkˈstent/ · /tu ə lɑːrdʒ ɪkˈstent/

Word pattern(s): to a large/considerable/significant extent, + clause

Definition: signals a strong but not absolute level of agreement.

Example: To a large extent, banning private cars in city centres improves public health. (Meaning: mostly true.)

Synonym: largely; for the most part

Common mistakes: Don’t write “in a large extent”; the fixed preposition is to.

it is reasonable to argue that/ɪt ɪz ˈriːznəbl tuː ˈɑːɡjuː ðæt/ · /ɪt ɪz ˈriːzənəbl tu ˈɑːrɡju ðæt/

Word pattern(s): It is reasonable to argue that + clause

Definition: cautious, academic way to present your stance.

Example: It is reasonable to argue that central districts should prioritise people over cars. (Meaning: a justified claim.)

Synonym: it is defensible to claim that

Common mistakes: Avoid “it is logic to argue”; use “reasonable/logical to argue”.

the benefits outweigh the costs/ðə ˈbenɪfɪts ˌaʊtˈweɪ ðə kɒsts/ · /ðə ˈbenɪfɪts ˌaʊtˈweɪ ðə kɔːsts/

Word pattern(s): the benefits outweigh the costs of + noun/gerund

Definition: classic evaluation frame to justify a position.

Example: In pedestrian cores, the benefits of car bans outweigh the costs to motorists. (Meaning: positives are greater.)

Synonym: advantages exceed disadvantages

Common mistakes: Spelling: “outweigh,” not “outweight”.

as a matter of public health/æz ə ˈmætə əv ˌpʌblɪk ˈhelθ/ · /æz ə ˈmætər əv ˌpʌblɪk ˈhelθ/

Word pattern(s): as a matter of + noun (policy/safety/health)

Definition: frames the argument as a civic responsibility, not a preference.

Example: As a matter of public health, curbing idling should be non‑negotiable. (Meaning: required for health.)

Synonym: on public‑health grounds

Common mistakes: Don’t overuse; keep it for principle‑based claims, not trivial points.

there is a compelling case for/ðeər ɪz ə kəmˈpelɪŋ keɪs fɔː/ · /ðer ɪz ə kəmˈpelɪŋ keɪs fɔːr/

Word pattern(s): there is a compelling/strong case for + noun/gerund

Definition: strong recommendation backed by reasons/data.

Example: There is a compelling case for banning through‑traffic near schools. (Meaning: strong justification exists.)

Synonym: strong grounds for

Common mistakes: Avoid doubling: “compelling and very strong case” (redundant).

it follows that/ɪt ˈfɒləʊz ðæt/ · /ɪt ˈfɑːloʊz ðæt/

Word pattern(s): It follows that + clause

Definition: logical connector from cause to conclusion.

Example: If emissions fall when cars are restricted, it follows that bans can improve health. (Meaning: logical result.)

Synonym: therefore; consequently

Common mistakes: Don’t attach unrelated claims; ensure clear cause‑effect chain first.

on practical grounds/ɒn ˈpræktɪkl ɡraʊndz/ · /ɑːn ˈpræktɪkəl ɡraʊndz/

Word pattern(s): on + legal/ethical/practical grounds

Definition: argues based on feasibility/operation rather than morality.

Example: On practical grounds, limited exemptions are necessary for deliveries. (Meaning: workable reasons.)

Synonym: for practical reasons

Common mistakes: Don’t mix with “in grounds”; preposition is on.

strike a sensible balance between/straɪk ə ˈsensəbl ˈbæləns bɪˈtwiːn/ · /straɪk ə ˈsensəbəl ˈbæləns bɪˈtwin/

Word pattern(s): strike a (sensible/delicate) balance between A and B

Definition: propose compromise without sounding indecisive.

Example: Policies should strike a sensible balance between access for tradespeople and clean air. (Meaning: combine both aims.)

Synonym: find a middle ground

Common mistakes: Verb is strike, not “make” a balance in formal writing.

be justified on the grounds that/biː ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪd ɒn ðə ɡraʊndz ðæt/ · /bi ˈdʒʌstɪfaɪd ɑːn ðə ɡraʊndz ðæt/

Word pattern(s): be justified on the grounds that + clause

Definition: defends a policy with specific reasoning.

Example: Bans are justified on the grounds that alternative modes can carry more people. (Meaning: fair reason exists.)

Synonym: warranted because

Common mistakes: Include article “the grounds”; ✗ “on grounds that” (too bare in formal style).

as a result of/æz ə rɪˈzʌlt əv/ · /æz ə rɪˈzʌlt əv/

Word pattern(s): as a result of + noun/gerund

Definition: cause‑and‑effect linker for nouns/gerunds.

Example: As a result of reduced traffic, emergency response times improve. (Meaning: because of.)

Synonym: due to; owing to (register differs)

Common mistakes: Don’t follow with a full clause; use a noun/gerund then continue.

arguably/ˈɑːɡjuəbli/ · /ˈɑːrɡjuəbli/

Word pattern(s): Arguably, + clause

Definition: hedge to present a strong claim while allowing debate.

Example: Arguably, dense cores gain the most from car restrictions. (Meaning: many would agree.)

Synonym: it can be argued that

Common mistakes: Avoid stacking hedges: “arguably perhaps” (redundant).

not least/nɒt liːst/ · /nɑːt liːst/

Word pattern(s): …, not least + noun/gerund

Definition: emphasises an especially important example among several.

Example: Bans benefit everyone, not least children who walk to school. (Meaning: especially.)

Synonym: especially; particularly

Common mistakes: Use as an add‑on, not at the very start without context in short essays.

granted, … yet …/ˈɡrɑːntɪd/ · /ˈɡræntɪd/

Word pattern(s): Granted, + concession clause, yet + main claim

Definition: concession structure to acknowledge and pivot back to your view.

Example: Granted, traders fear lost customers, yet footfall often rises in walkable areas. (Meaning: admit then counter.)

Synonym: admittedly, … however …

Common mistakes: Don’t write “granted that” as a conjunction here; use comma style for clarity.

in effect/ɪn ɪˈfekt/ · /ɪn ɪˈfekt/

Word pattern(s): In effect, + clause

Definition: “practically speaking”; states the real‑world outcome of a policy.

Example: In effect, the same street space serves more people when cars are removed. (Meaning: practically.)

Synonym: effectively

Common mistakes: Not “on effect”; preposition is in.

at first glance/æt fɜːst ɡlɑːns/ · /æt fɝːst ɡlæns/

Word pattern(s): At first glance, + contrastive claim

Definition: introduces a surface‑level view you will then refine or rebut.

Example: At first glance, access limits seem unfair; on closer inspection, exemptions address needs. (Meaning: initial impression only.)

Synonym: superficially

Common mistakes: Follow with a contrast; don’t leave the “first glance” view unchallenged.

be the exception rather than the rule/biː ði ɪkˈsepʃn ˈrɑːðə ðən ðə ruːl/ · /bi ði ɪkˈsepʃən ˈræðər ðən ðə ruːl/

Word pattern(s): be the exception rather than the rule

Definition: describes what should happen rarely, not routinely.

Example: In dense cores, private cars should be the exception rather than the rule. (Meaning: rare, not normal.)

Synonym: be unusual; be uncommon

Common mistakes: Keep the article “the” before “rule.”

what is more/wɒt ɪz mɔː/ · /wɑːt ɪz mɔːr/

Word pattern(s): What is more, + additive reason

Definition: formal “plus” that adds weight to your previous point.

Example: What is more, calmer streets stimulate local retail activity. (Meaning: additionally.)

Synonym: furthermore; moreover

Common mistakes: Avoid stacking with multiple similar linkers in one sentence.

by the same token/baɪ ðə seɪm ˈtəʊkən/ · /baɪ ðə seɪm ˈtoʊkən/

Word pattern(s): By the same token, + parallel claim

Definition: draws a parallel logic to support a second, similar point.

Example: By the same token, safer cycling routes reduce pressure on buses at peak times. (Meaning: similarly.)

Synonym: likewise

Common mistakes: Use for true parallels; not for contrasts.

on the grounds of equity/ɒn ðə ɡraʊndz əv ˈekwɪti/ · /ɑːn ðə ɡraʊndz əv ˈekwəti/

Word pattern(s): on the grounds of + noun

Definition: justifies action because it promotes fairness.

Example: Exemptions are granted on the grounds of equity for people with mobility needs. (Meaning: fairness reason.)

Synonym: for reasons of fairness

Common mistakes: Keep “of” not “for”: ✗ on the grounds for equity.

it would be prudent to/ɪt wʊd biː ˈpruːdnt tuː/ · /ɪt wʊd bi ˈpruːdnt tu/

Word pattern(s): it would be prudent to + verb

Definition: recommends a cautious, sensible action.

Example: It would be prudent to phase bans in gradually with clear signage. (Meaning: wise to do.)

Synonym: advisable to

Common mistakes: Use the infinitive (“to phase”), not a gerund after “prudent”.

in light of/ɪn ˈlaɪt əv/ · /ɪn ˈlaɪt əv/

Word pattern(s): in light of + noun/gerund

Definition: considering new facts/evidence.

Example: In light of rising asthma rates, stricter anti‑idling rules are warranted. (Meaning: considering.)

Synonym: considering; given

Common mistakes: Not “in the light to”; keep “of”.

the crux of the issue is that/ðə krʌks əv ði ˈɪʃuː ɪz ðæt/ · /ðə krʌks əv ði ˈɪʃu ɪz ðæt/

Word pattern(s): the crux of the issue/problem is that + clause

Definition: isolates the central point in a complex debate.

Example: The crux of the issue is that streets can move more people without private cars. (Meaning: main point.)

Synonym: the heart of the matter

Common mistakes: Don’t overuse in a short essay—one strategic use is enough.

Interactive Exercise 1 — Vocabulary & Phrases (Agree/Disagree: City‑Centre Car Bans)

Choose the best answer for each question. The moment you select an option, a full explanation appears — including why the correct option fits, how the distractors fail, and quick IELTS tips. Items recycle the 20 crucial words and 20 expressions from Parts 4 & 5.

Your Score
0/10 correct

1) Pick the best stance marker for a measured agreement:

“______, banning private cars in historic city centres improves air quality and street safety.”

2) Choose the most academic way to introduce a defendable claim:

“______, central districts should prioritise people over cars.”

3) Select the best evaluation frame:

“When city centres restrict car access, the public‑health and economic gains ______.”

4) Choose the phrase that frames the policy as a civic responsibility:

“______, authorities should curb idling and protect pedestrians.”

5) Which sentence handles concession then pivots back to your view?

Select the most natural academic option.

6) Pick the cause‑effect linker that takes a noun/gerund:

“____ reduced traffic, asthma rates may fall near schools.”

7) Choose the phrase that argues for strong justification:

“Given the evidence on injuries, there is ______ lower speed limits in pedestrian cores.”

8) Pick the policy hedging that keeps tone cautious:

“______, car bans deliver the strongest benefits in dense cores with fast, reliable transit.”

9) Choose the fairness‑based justification with correct prepositions:

“Exempting vehicles for people with mobility needs is justified ______.”

10) Pick the precise recommendation verb phrase:

“Given limited budgets, it ______ to phase restrictions and upgrade bus corridors first.”

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