Cautious language, also known as hedging, is a key feature of formal academic writing,
including IELTS Writing Task 2. It involves using words or phrases that show uncertainty or
limit the strength of a statement. This makes your arguments sound more balanced, objective,
and academically appropriate.
Why Use Cautious Language?
To avoid making absolute claims without strong evidence.
To present opinions as viewpoints rather than facts.
To demonstrate a balanced and critical perspective.
Examples of Cautious Language
1. Modal Verbs (to soften a claim)
o Strong Claim: The government must implement strict policies to reduce
pollution.
o Cautious Claim: The government could implement stricter policies to reduce
pollution.
2. Adverbs and Adjectives (to show probability)
o Strong Claim: This policy will solve the problem of unemployment.
o Cautious Claim: This policy is likely to solve the problem of unemployment.
3. Phrases Indicating Uncertainty
o Strong Claim: Online education is the most effective learning method.
o Cautious Claim: Online education may be one of the most effective learning
methods.
4. Qualifying Statements (to acknowledge other perspectives)
o Strong Claim: Fast food is unhealthy.
o Cautious Claim: Fast food can be unhealthy, especially when consumed
frequently.
5. Using Evidence to Support Claims
o Strong Claim: Remote work improves productivity.
o Cautious Claim: Studies suggest that remote work may improve productivity in
certain industries.
Common Hedging Words and Phrases
Modal Verbs: may, might, could, can, would, should
Adverbs: possibly, probably, likely, generally, typically
Phrases: It seems that, There is a possibility that, Some evidence suggests, It is often
argued that
Final Tip
Using cautious language in IELTS Writing Task 2 demonstrates a mature and critical thinking
approach. Aim to use it especially when presenting opinions, predictions, or when there is
uncertainty in your argument. However, avoid overusing it, as that may weaken your argument.
A good balance is key!
Cause and Effect
Definition of Cause and Effect
Cause and effect is a relationship between events or actions, where one or more events (causes)
lead to a particular outcome (effect). It is often used in academic writing to explain why
something happens and what results from it.
Cause: The reason why something happens.
Effect: The result or consequence of an action or event.
Ways to Express Cause and Effect
There are two main structures to express cause and effect in writing:
1. Cause to Effect (A → B)
o This structure starts with the cause and then explains the effect.
o Example: Increasing pollution causes respiratory diseases.
o Useful Language:
Causes
Leads to
Results in
Contributes to
Brings about
Gives rise to
2. Effect to Cause (B ← A)
o This structure starts with the effect and then explains the cause.
o Example: Respiratory diseases are caused by increasing pollution.
o Useful Language:
Is caused by
Results from
Is due to
Stems from
Can be attributed to
Examples of Cause and Effect in Academic Writing
A to B (Cause to Effect)
o Deforestation leads to soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.
o Technological advancements contribute to increased productivity in the
workplace.
B to A (Effect to Cause)
o The decline in wildlife populations is caused by habitat destruction.
o The reduction in transportation costs can be attributed to the rise of efficient
logistics systems.
Tips for Using Cause and Effect in Academic Writing
Ensure that the cause-and-effect relationship is logical and well-supported by evidence.
Use cautious language (e.g., may lead to, is likely to result in) if the effect is uncertain.
Vary your sentence structure to maintain clarity and coherence.
Avoid oversimplifying complex relationships by considering multiple causes and effects.
