Top 10 Phrases for CELPIP Writing and Speaking
Top 10 Phrases for CELPIP Writing and Speaking: When taking the CELPIP exam, mastering key phrases for writing and speaking can make a huge difference in your clarity, coherence, and score. The right words help you sound natural, structured, and logical, making it easier for the examiner to follow your thoughts.
In this guide, we’ll go over the top 10 phrases for CELPIP Writing and Speaking, categorized into transition sentences, common word replacements, paragraph connectors, short and long phrases, and advanced expressions. You’ll also find examples showing how to use each phrase effectively.
1. To Begin With (Great for Introductions & Topic Sentences)
If you’re starting an answer in speaking or writing, “To begin with” is a strong way to introduce your first point. It’s more formal and structured than “First” or “First of all,” which can sound basic.
✅ Example for Writing: “To begin with, implementing public transportation improvements would significantly reduce traffic congestion and environmental pollution.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “To begin with, I believe technology has greatly enhanced our lives by making communication more efficient.”
🔹 When to use: Great for Task 1 and Task 2 Writing when giving reasons or examples. In Speaking Part 2 and 4, it helps structure your response.
2. Not to Mention (For Emphasizing a Point)
If you want to add an extra supporting argument, “Not to mention” is a smooth way to reinforce an idea.
✅ Example for Writing: “A vegetarian diet is healthier and more environmentally friendly, not to mention, it is often more affordable in the long run.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “Public transport is cheaper and reduces traffic congestion, not to mention, it is far better for the environment.”
🔹 When to use: Perfect for strengthening your argument in writing tasks. In speaking, use it to sound more natural when adding an extra point.
3. Having Said That (For Contrasting Ideas)
This phrase helps you introduce contrasting viewpoints smoothly. Instead of using “but” or “however”, “Having said that” makes you sound sophisticated.
✅ Example for Writing: “Social media helps people stay connected. Having said that, excessive use can negatively impact mental health.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “I love living in a big city because of the opportunities. Having said that, the high cost of living can be overwhelming.”
🔹 When to use: Writing Task 2 when presenting counterarguments. In Speaking Part 3 and 4, use it to show a balanced perspective.
4. In Light of This (For Drawing Conclusions)
This is a great alternative to “therefore” or “as a result.” It shows you are drawing a logical conclusion.
✅ Example for Writing: “The rising number of cybercrimes is alarming. In light of this, stronger cybersecurity measures should be implemented.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “The demand for remote work is growing. In light of this, companies should invest more in digital infrastructure.”
🔹 When to use: Works well for concluding arguments in both writing and speaking.
5. A Case in Point (For Giving Examples)
Instead of saying “for example”, try using “A case in point” to make your writing and speaking more advanced.
✅ Example for Writing: “Many countries have adopted work-from-home policies. A case in point is Canada, which now allows remote work for many industries.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “Technology has improved healthcare. A case in point is how AI helps doctors diagnose diseases faster.”
🔹 When to use: Perfect for giving examples in Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3.
6. More Often Than Not (For Describing Frequency)
This phrase is a great alternative to “usually” or “often.” It adds variety to your responses.
✅ Example for Writing: “More often than not, people choose convenience over sustainability.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “More often than not, people underestimate the importance of time management.”
🔹 When to use: Speaking Part 2 and 4, Writing Task 2 to describe common trends.
7. It Stands to Reason That (For Making Logical Arguments)
This phrase is more formal than “It makes sense that” and works great in persuasive writing.
✅ Example for Writing: “It stands to reason that increasing funding for education will lead to better academic outcomes.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “It stands to reason that people who exercise regularly tend to be healthier.”
🔹 When to use: Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3 when explaining cause and effect.
8. Be That as It May (For Acknowledging a Point but Moving Forward)
This phrase works when you recognize an argument but still stick to your viewpoint.
✅ Example for Writing: “Some argue that social media fosters relationships. Be that as it may, excessive use can lead to social isolation.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “Be that as it may, I still believe traditional education is superior to online learning.”
🔹 When to use: Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3 for counterarguments.
9. At the End of the Day (For Summarizing Key Points)
A great alternative to “in conclusion”, making your writing or speaking sound more natural.
✅ Example for Writing: “At the end of the day, prioritizing mental health leads to better productivity and well-being.”
✅ Example for Speaking: “At the end of the day, family and friends are what truly matter.”
🔹 When to use: Writing Task 2 conclusion, Speaking Part 4 final thoughts.
10. That’s a Tough Question, But I’d Say… (For Buying Time in Speaking)
If you need a second to think, this phrase helps you sound confident instead of pausing awkwardly.
✅ Example for Speaking: “That’s a tough question, but I’d say technology has improved education the most.”
🔹 When to use: Speaking Part 3 and 4 when answering difficult questions.
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Final Thoughts
Using the right phrases in CELPIP writing and speaking can significantly boost your score. Whether you’re introducing ideas, giving examples, or making conclusions, these 10 key phrases will help you sound structured and fluent.
✅ Practice these in your responses and watch how they transform your CELPIP performance!