(IELTS Speaking Lesson – Vocabulary, Discussion & Sample Answers)
Friendship is an essential part of life, but while some friendships last a lifetime, others gradually fade away. In this lesson, we’ll explore useful vocabulary, idioms, and expressions to help you discuss this topic effectively in the IELTS Speaking test. You’ll also find IELTS Part 2 & Part 3 practice questions along with sample answers to boost your fluency and confidence.
🌱 Vocabulary for Discussing Friendship
1️⃣ Vocabulary for Strong & Lasting Friendships
✅ Lifelong friend – A friend you have had for most of your life.
➡ Example: Maria and I have been lifelong friends since childhood.
✅ Kindred spirit – Someone who shares your interests, values, or way of thinking.
➡ Example: We instantly connected because we are kindred spirits.
✅ Mutual understanding – A shared awareness and respect for each other’s feelings and thoughts.
➡ Example: A strong friendship is built on mutual understanding.
✅ Unwavering support – Consistent help and encouragement.
➡ Example: True friends offer unwavering support in difficult times.
✅ To stand the test of time – To remain strong and unchanged over many years.
➡ Example: Our friendship has stood the test of time despite many challenges.
2️⃣ Vocabulary for Friendships That Fade Away
❌ Drift apart – To slowly lose connection over time.
➡ Example: We were best friends in high school, but we drifted apart after college.
❌ Grow apart – To develop different interests or lifestyles.
➡ Example: As we got older, we grew apart because of our different careers.
❌ Lose touch – To stop communicating with someone over time.
➡ Example: I lost touch with many childhood friends after moving abroad.
❌ Falling out – A serious disagreement that damages a friendship.
➡ Example: We had a falling out over money, and we haven’t spoken since.
❌ Outgrow a friendship – To no longer have things in common with a friend.
➡ Example: Sometimes, people outgrow friendships as they change and evolve.
🗣 IELTS Speaking Practice – Part 2 & 3
📌 IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Cue Card
Describe a friend you have had for a long time.
You should say:
✔ Who they are
✔ How you met
✔ What makes your friendship special
✔ And explain why this friendship has lasted so long.
🕒 You have 1 minute to prepare and 2 minutes to speak.
💬 IELTS Speaking Part 3 – Follow-up Questions
🔹 General Questions on Friendship:
- What qualities do you think are important in a good friend?
- Do you think friendships are more important than family relationships? Why?
- How has the way people make friends changed compared to the past?
🔹 Deeper Discussion on Friendship & Society:
4. Why do some friendships last a lifetime while others fade?
5. How do cultural differences affect friendships?
6. Do you think friendships change as people get older?
7. Should workplaces encourage friendships among employees?
8. Is it better to have a few close friends or a large group of acquaintances?
🎭 Idioms & Phrases Related to Friendship
🌟 Through thick and thin – To stay friends no matter what happens.
➡ Example: A true friend is someone who stands by you through thick and thin.
🌟 Birds of a feather flock together – People with similar interests and personalities tend to become friends.
➡ Example: They both love hiking and photography—birds of a feather flock together.
🌟 A shoulder to cry on – Someone who provides emotional support.
➡ Example: Whenever I’m feeling down, she’s always a shoulder to cry on.
🌟 To bury the hatchet – To forgive someone and move on.
➡ Example: After years of not speaking, we decided to bury the hatchet and reconnect.
🌟 To hit it off – To instantly get along well with someone.
➡ Example: We hit it off immediately and became close friends.
📝 IELTS Speaking Sample Answers
Part 2 Sample Answer – Describe a Lifelong Friend
“I would like to talk about my best friend, Sarah. We have been lifelong friends since childhood. We first met in elementary school when we were both assigned to the same project. We instantly hit it off because we had similar interests in books and music. Over the years, we have supported each other through thick and thin. I think the reason our friendship has stood the test of time is that we both prioritize honesty and mutual understanding. Even though we now live in different cities, we make an effort to stay in touch and visit each other regularly. I truly believe that strong friendships require effort, but when both people are committed, they can last a lifetime.”
Part 3 Sample Answer – Why Do Some Friendships Fade?
“Friendships can fade for many reasons. One of the most common is that people drift apart when their lives change. For example, when friends move to different cities or start different careers, it can be difficult to stay in touch. Another reason is that people grow apart as they develop new interests or priorities. Additionally, some friendships are superficial and may not have a strong emotional connection, so they naturally fade over time. However, I believe that friendships built on trust, loyalty, and mutual respect have a much better chance of lasting a lifetime.”
