IELTS/CELPIP Writing Task 1

IELTS/CELPIP Writing Task 1

In my last blog, I gave you some idioms and expressions for formal emails and letters. In this blog, you will see some basic idioms and expressions for informal emails and letters. In general, it is more common to use these kinds of expressions in informal situations.

Idioms and Expressions – Informal Emails/Letters:

1. Describing a Situation:

○      In hot water (in trouble)

■      I found myself in hot water after missing the deadline.

○      Out of the blue (unexpectedly)

■      He called me out of the blue to ask for help.

      2. Giving Advice or Suggestions:

○      Piece of cake (something very easy)

■      Don’t worry about the project, it’s a piece of cake.

○      Hit the nail on the head (to be exactly right)

■      You really hit the nail on the head with your suggestion.

      3. Expressing Relief or Happiness:

○      Over the moon (very happy)

■      I’m over the moon about your news.

○      On cloud nine (extremely happy)

■      She was on cloud nine after getting the job.

      4. Explaining Challenges:

○      Bite off more than you can chew (take on more than one can handle)

■      I think I bit off more than I could chew with this task.

○      Burn the midnight oil (work late into the night)

■      I had to burn the midnight oil to finish the project.

These idioms can add flavor to your writing and help raise your score in terms of vocabulary.

IELTS/CELPIP Informal Email/Letter Sample

WRITING TASK 1

You should spend about 26 minutes on this task. Write BETWEEN 150-200 words.

You want to take a holiday in another country.  During your holiday you would like to meet one of your friends who lives there.

Write a letter to this friend.  In your letter

•     describe the types of place you would like to visit
•     ask some questions about accommodation
•     suggest some activities you could do together

Hi Sarah,

I hope you’re doing well! I’ve got some exciting news—I’m planning a holiday in Spain next month, and I’d love to catch up with you while I’m there.

I’m thinking of visiting a few historical sites, like those old castles and museums that are scattered around. You know me, I’m a sucker for anything with a story behind it. Maybe we could also check out some hidden gems that only locals know about or hit the beach. If you have any recommendations, I’m all ears!

By the way, do you have any tips on where to stay? I’ve been looking online, but there’s so much to choose from, and I don’t want to end up in a place that’s a total dump. Is there a neighborhood you’d suggest, or should I just wing it and book something when I get there?

Oh, and how about we hit the beach or go on a little road trip together? I’m up for anything—whether it’s chilling out or doing something more adventurous. It would be awesome to spend some quality time with you, just like old times.

Can’t wait to hear from you and see you soon!

Cheers,
Tom

Expressions and Idioms Used

Informal Letter:

1. I’m all ears – fully listening, eager to hear something
2. Hidden gems – places that are wonderful but not well-known
3. End up in a place that’s a total dump – find oneself in a disappointing place that is ugly or not well maintained.
4. Hit the beach – go to the beach
5. Wing it – do something without planning or preparation
6. A little road trip – a short journey by car
7. I’m up for anything – willing to do anything or try new things
8. Chilling out – relaxing
9. I’m a sucker for – I like (something so much)
10. Just like old times – reminiscent of past enjoyable experiences

IELTS/CELPIP Writing Task 1

Written by Larry Fedorowick