As we know, fixed expressions are cool
English, even academic English, is full of fixed expressions – phrases that are always written and spoken in exactly the same form.
Fixed expressions can be quite long and may include some sophisticated grammar, but it’s best to think of them as individual vocabulary items. Record them as vocabulary items. Memorise them as vocabulary items. Don’t change the word order of a fixed expression, and don’t change any word forms inside a fixed expression, even if you think your alterations make sense:
- You’re playing with fire!
- You’re playing with fires!
(Altered word form) - You’re playing with flames!
(Changed word) - You’re playing with the fire!
(Added word) - You’re with fire playing!
(Changed word order)
You will be less likely to make errors like these if you memorise fixed expressions much as you might memorise individual vocabulary items. You may also notice how the structure of a fixed expression differs from its translation.
Indonesians feel a strong urge to add bahwa after seperti kita ketahui, whereas in English there is no that.
As we know = 1 item containing 3 words (not 4!)
Notice also that in this example as we know also requires a comma (,) to separate it from last year.
Record fixed expressions in your vocabulary notebook. Review them. Memorise them. Use them in sentences. And watch how your IELTS scores for writing and speaking start to increase!