Filler phrases can help boost IELTS Speaking scores.
You can’t hesitate or pause before answering a question.
To avoid, this learn filler phrases that you can say while you think of your answer.
Today you learn filler phrases we use in English with “funny”.
Practice starting answers with these to improve fluency scores.
Funny ha ha or funny weird?
In English, “funny” has a few meanings.
It can mean something that would make you laugh.
However, it can also mean “weird”.
An expression in English is asking the question, “Funny ha ha or funny weird?”
We say this when someone says “funny” and we’re not sure which they mean.
Today’s question
This episode was inspired by a listener question.
In speaking can I start with “funny you should ask”?
-Zweli
The answer is yes!
This is an excellent filler phrase.
However, it must be followed by an explanation.
We use this when commenting on a coincidence.
3 funny filler phrases
There are three phrases you can use to begin answers with “funny” meaning “weird”.
- Actually, funny this should come up because…
- That’s kind of a funny question. / What a funny question!
- You, know, a funny thing happened, related to this…
These can be useful on every part of the IELTS Speaking exam.
#1: Speaking Part 1
You can easily use these filler phrases on Speaking Part 1.
If you are asked about friends, hobbies, work, etc. you can share something that recently happened.
Part 1: How often do you go to the cinema?
Funny you should ask! I actually joined Cinemark’s movie club just yesterday!
You can also use them if asked how often you visit restaurants, museums, etc.
Part 1: Do you often go to art galleries or museums?
You, know, a funny thing happened, related to this.
You must then explain what happened.
In this case, Jessica shares about a closed museum that led to a long walk.
#2: Speaking Part 2
These are excellent ways to begin Part 2 answers!
You want to avoid starting with, “I’d like to talk about…”
Part 2: Describe something you purchased recently
It’s so funny this should come up because, believe it or not, this morning I found the BEST travel hack.
I was looking for something that could attach to the back of the seat and I found this doohickey that holds a phone – it’s perfect!
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#3: Speaking Part 3
These filler phrases are not too informal for Speaking Part 3.
You can use them to begin answers in this section as well.
Part 3: Do you think plane travel will decrease in the future?
That’s kind of a funny question. I mean, no!
Sure we can talk about hypotheticals, like it would be good for the environment, but no, I don’t think this is a serious possibility at all.
Takeaway
You need filler phrases on the IELTS Speaking exam!
These help boost fluency scores by eliminating pauses and hesitation.
Today’s fillers use “funny” meaning “weird”.
Practice using them when answering Speaking questions.
For all the strategies you need on the IELTS exam, sign up for 3 Keys IELTS!
What questions do you have from today’s episode?
Please leave a comment below.
