Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed – IELTS Cue Card with Sample Answers

IELTS Cue Card

Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed – IELTS Cue Card Band 9 Sample Answer 1

One useful item that I once borrowed was a high-quality digital camera from a close friend, who is an amateur photographer.

I borrowed the camera during a weekend trip when I decided to explore photography as a hobby, even though I did not own a professional camera myself.

I used the camera extensively throughout the trip to capture landscapes, candid moments, and local cultural events, which allowed me to document my experiences with much greater clarity and detail than my phone would have provided.

This borrowed camera was extremely useful to me because it not only enhanced my photography skills but also helped me preserve precious memories, making my trip even more memorable.

Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 2

Another instance was when I borrowed a set of specialized kitchen utensils from my neighbor for a cooking workshop I attended.

The utensils included a professional-grade chef’s knife and a set of precision measuring tools, which I did not own at the time.

I used these tools during the workshop to prepare various dishes, and their high quality made a significant difference in both my efficiency and the final presentation of the meals.

I found these borrowed kitchen tools very useful because they allowed me to experiment with advanced cooking techniques and improved my culinary skills, which boosted my confidence in the kitchen.

Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed – IELTS Cue Card Sample Answer 3

In addition, I once borrowed a set of reference books on digital marketing from my colleague when I needed to complete an urgent project at work.

The books covered topics ranging from search engine optimization to social media strategies, providing a wealth of information that I had not previously explored in depth.

I used these resources to quickly upskill myself and apply new strategies to the project, which played a key role in its success.

This borrowing experience was particularly valuable because it not only helped me meet a work deadline but also expanded my knowledge, underscoring the benefits of sharing resources and learning from others.

Vocabulary You Can Use to Answer IELTS Speaking Part 2 Questions on Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed

• Indispensable
  Meaning: Absolutely necessary or essential.
  Example: The camera was indispensable during my trip.
• Resourceful
  Meaning: Able to find quick and clever ways to overcome difficulties.
  Example: Borrowing the reference books proved to be a resourceful solution to my urgent project needs.
• Beneficial
  Meaning: Resulting in good; favorable.
  Example: The borrowed kitchen utensils were highly beneficial for improving my cooking skills.
• Enhance
  Meaning: To improve or increase.
  Example: The camera enhanced the quality of my travel photographs.
• Practical
  Meaning: Of or concerned with actual use or practice.
  Example: The practical value of the borrowed items was evident in how much they improved my performance.

Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed – IELTS Part 3 Follow-up Questions

1. Why do people often prefer to borrow rather than buy certain items?

People often borrow items to save money, try out a product before purchasing, or because they only need it for a short period.

2. How can borrowing items benefit communities?

Borrowing promotes resource sharing and sustainability, reducing waste and fostering a sense of community and cooperation.

3. Do you think borrowing has any disadvantages?

While borrowing can be cost-effective, it may sometimes lead to dependency or conflicts over the condition and return of the items.

4. What kinds of items are most commonly borrowed in your country?

Commonly borrowed items include books, tools, electronic devices, and kitchen appliances, as these are often needed temporarily or for specific tasks.

5. How has technology affected the way people borrow items?

Technology has facilitated borrowing through online platforms and sharing apps, making it easier to locate, borrow, and return items within communities.

Vocabulary You Can Use to Answer IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions on Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed

• Economical
  Meaning: Giving good value or service in relation to the amount of money spent.
  Example: Borrowing is an economical way to access expensive items without a large upfront cost.
• Collaborative
  Meaning: Produced or conducted by two or more parties working together.
  Example: A collaborative community often shares resources and lends items to each other.
• Convenient
  Meaning: Fitting in well with a person’s needs, activities, and plans.
  Example: Borrowing through online platforms is very convenient.
• Resource-sharing
  Meaning: The practice of lending or sharing goods among members of a community.
  Example: Resource-sharing initiatives can help reduce overall consumption.
• Cost-effective
  Meaning: Producing good results without costing a lot of money.
  Example: Borrowing items is often a cost-effective alternative to purchasing them.

Tips for Answering Describe a useful thing that you once borrowed

• Clearly identify the item and mention who you borrowed it from.
• Explain why you needed to borrow it and how it was used.
• Discuss what made the item particularly useful and any benefits it provided.
• Use detailed and descriptive language to highlight its practical value.
• Organize your response into clear paragraphs addressing each cue card point.
• Practice your response to ensure a fluent and engaging delivery during the exam.