Mastering advanced vocabulary is crucial for achieving a high score on the IELTS Speaking exam. Today, we will explore some advanced expressions related to daily routines that can enhance your speaking skills. Let’s dive into five key expressions: Habitual, Monotonous, Stick to a Schedule, Day In, Day Out, and Break the Routine.
1. Habitual
Definition: Done or doing something constantly or as a habit.
Example: “He is a habitual early riser, waking up at 5 AM every day.”
Explanation: The term “habitual” describes actions that are performed regularly and consistently. When something is done as a habit, it becomes a natural part of a person’s routine. For instance, if someone wakes up early every day without the need for an alarm, it’s a habitual behavior.
Additional Example: “She is a habitual jogger, running 5 kilometers every morning.”
2. Monotonous
Definition: Dull, tedious, and repetitious; lacking in variety and interest.
Example: “His daily commute to work has become quite monotonous.”
Explanation: “Monotonous” refers to activities or routines that are repetitive and boring. When something lacks variety and excitement, it can feel tedious and uninteresting. For example, if someone takes the same route to work every day without any change, it can become monotonous.
Additional Example: “The job was so monotonous that he felt like a robot doing the same tasks over and over.”
3. Stick to a Schedule
Definition: To follow a planned schedule strictly.
Example: “She manages to stick to a schedule despite her busy life.”
Explanation: “Stick to a schedule” means to follow a planned timetable or routine without deviation. This phrase is often used to emphasize discipline and organization. For example, someone who sticks to a schedule ensures they complete their tasks on time and maintain a structured daily routine.
Additional Example: “Despite his hectic work, he always sticks to his workout schedule.”
4. Day In, Day Out
Definition: Continuously or repeatedly over a long period.
Example: “She works hard day in, day out to provide for her family.”
Explanation: “Day in, day out” describes something that happens every day without fail. It emphasizes the consistency and persistence of an action or behavior over a long duration. For instance, if someone works tirelessly every single day, their effort can be described as happening day in, day out.
Additional Example: “He practices the piano day in, day out to prepare for the concert.”
5. Break the Routine
Definition: To do something different from what one usually does.
Example: “Traveling can help break the routine and refresh your mind.”
Explanation: “Break the routine” means to change one’s regular habits or activities to introduce variety and excitement. This expression is often used when someone feels the need to escape from their usual, repetitive actions. For example, going on a vacation or taking up a new hobby can help break the routine and provide a fresh perspective.
Additional Example: “She decided to break the routine by trying out a new restaurant every weekend.”
Practical Application
Incorporating these expressions into your daily vocabulary can significantly enhance your IELTS speaking performance. Try to use them in sentences when describing your own routines and habits. Here are some practice questions:
Can you describe a habitual activity in your daily routine?
Have you ever experienced a monotonous job or task? How did you handle it?
How do you manage to stick to a schedule in your busy life?
What is something you do day in, day out, and how does it affect you?
How do you like to break the routine when you feel bored?
By practicing these expressions and integrating them into your speech, you’ll be able to convey your thoughts more effectively and impress the IELTS examiners with your advanced vocabulary. Happy studying!
