CELPIP Speaking Task 1 vocabulary

The words and phrases

I'd strongly recommend

Gives firm advice you really believe in; sounds caring and confident.
Example: I'd strongly recommend talking to your manager before you accept the other job offer.

if I were in your shoes

Introduces advice by imagining yourself in the other person's situation.
Example: If I were in your shoes, I'd rent for a year before buying a house in a new city.

you might want to

Gives gentle, polite advice that does not sound like an order.
Example: You might want to book your flights now, because prices go up before the holidays.

have you thought about

Suggests an idea as a question, so the advice feels friendly and open.
Example: Have you thought about taking an evening course at the college instead of quitting your job?

it might be a good idea to

A soft, tentative way to suggest an action.
Example: It might be a good idea to visit the neighbourhood at night before you sign the lease.

why don't you

An informal, friendly suggestion between friends or family.
Example: Why don't you ask your cousin in Calgary whether you can stay with her for a few weeks?

my advice would be to

States your main recommendation clearly, often near the start of your answer.
Example: My advice would be to choose the apartment closer to work and save on gas.

the best thing to do is

Presents one action as the clearest solution to the problem.
Example: The best thing to do is make a list of what you spend each month.

make sure you

Reminds someone of an important step they must not skip.
Example: Make sure you get a written estimate before the contractor starts work on your kitchen.

don't forget to

Reminds the listener of a small but important detail.
Example: Don't forget to bring your health card when you go to the clinic.

it's worth

Says that an action is useful enough to justify the time or effort.
Example: It's worth asking your landlord whether you can paint the bedroom before you move in.

that way

Explains the benefit of the advice you just gave.
Example: Pack your lunch every day. That way, you'll save money and eat healthier food.

trust me

Adds personal confidence to your advice; informal and friendly.
Example: Trust me, a good winter coat makes a huge difference during your first year in Winnipeg.

one thing that helped me was

Shares your own experience as a piece of practical advice.
Example: One thing that helped me was joining a conversation group at the public library.

if I were you, I wouldn't

Warns someone against an action in a friendly but clear way.
Example: If I were you, I wouldn't lend him your car until he pays back the last loan.

whatever you decide

Ends advice supportively, showing respect for the other person's choice.
Example: Whatever you decide, I'll help you move and set up your new place.

Put them to work on Task 1

Practise Task 1 on the test screen, or see how Task 1 works.