IELTS Discussion Essay Vocabulary: Phrases for Presenting Both Views
In a discussion essay, you must present other people's views — not just your own. That requires
a specific kind of vocabulary: reporting language, perspective-shifting phrases, and balanced transitions.
This page teaches you the phrases you need, and shows you exactly where each one belongs.
7 functional patterns with phrases
Common mistakes and corrections
Reporting language vs personal voice
Why vocabulary matters in discussion essays
Discussion essays test a specific vocabulary skill that other essay types do not: can you present
someone else's view without making it sound like your own? This requires reporting language —
phrases like "Those who support..." and "Proponents argue that..." If you only know how to write
"I think," you will struggle with this essay type.
The patterns and their phrases
Introducing the debate
There is an ongoing debate aboutA contentious issue in many countries isOpinions are divided on
"There is an ongoing debate about whether schools should encourage competition or cooperation."
Presenting someone else's view
Those who support this view argue thatProponents of this approach believeAdvocates of ... maintain thatIt is often argued that
"Those who advocate for competition in education argue that it motivates children to work harder."
Noting a limitation
However, this view fails to considerNevertheless, an excessive focus onThis argument overlooks the fact that
"However, an excessive focus on competition can also create anxiety and discourage weaker students."
Transitioning to the other view
On the other handIn contrastConverselyThose on the other side of the debate contend that
"On the other hand, teaching children to cooperate equips them with skills that are arguably more relevant."
Giving your own opinion
I believe thatIn my viewI am more inclined to supportHaving considered both perspectives
"Having considered both perspectives, I believe cooperation is a more valuable skill for children to develop."
Acknowledging both sides
While both views have meritAlthough there is validity inDespite the strengths of both arguments
"While competition can motivate some children, I believe cooperation is a more important skill for schools to prioritise."
Common vocabulary mistakes
Using "I" for someone else's view
"I think competition is good because it makes children work harder."
Using reporting language
"Those who support competition argue that it makes children work harder."
In the view you disagree with, do not use "I think" or "I believe" — it makes the examiner
think you are arguing for that side. Use third-person reporting language to create distance.
No clear transition
"Competition is good. Also, cooperation is good."
Clear perspective shift
"Competition drives motivation. On the other hand, cooperation develops teamwork skills."
"Also" suggests you are adding to the same argument. "On the other hand" signals you are shifting
to an opposing perspective. The examiner needs to see this shift clearly.
Fence-sitting conclusion
"Both views have advantages and disadvantages. It depends on the situation."
Clear position
"While both views have merit, I believe cooperation is more valuable for long-term personal development."
"It depends on the situation" is not an opinion — it is avoidance. The examiner asked which view
you support. Acknowledge both sides, then clearly state your position.
Reporting vs personal voice
Discussion essays require you to switch between two voices: reporting (presenting
other people's views) and personal (giving your own opinion). Knowing when to use each
is a key vocabulary skill.
Reporting voice
Use when presenting View A or View B
"Proponents of competition argue that it builds resilience and motivates students to excel."
Personal voice
Use in your introduction, conclusion, and when stating your opinion
"I believe that cooperation is more valuable, as it develops skills that are essential in adult life."
Your teacher's note
The ability to switch between reporting and personal voice is what separates Band 6 from Band 8
in discussion essays. Band 6 students write "I think" in every paragraph. Band 8 students use
"Those who support..." for other people's views and save "I believe" for their own position.
This single skill can raise your Lexical Resource score by a full band.