Understanding ‘Defer’: Boost Your IELTS Score
Learn the meaning, usage, and nuances of the word ‘defer’ to enhance your vocabulary for the IELTS exam. This video covers the word’s definition, history, synonyms, antonyms, and common usage errors, helping you use ‘defer’ accurately in various contexts.
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to postpone an important decision or action?
If so, you’ve likely encountered the concept of deferring. Today, we’re exploring the word defer, a versatile and nuanced term that’s crucial for achieving a high band score in the IELTS exam.
Word type: Defer is primarily used as a verb.
Meaning: To defer means to delay or postpone an action, event, or decision to a later time.
It can also mean to submit to or comply with someone else’s wishes, judgment, or authority.
Word history:
The word defer has its roots in the Latin word deferre, which means to carry away or to yield. It entered the English language in the 14th century through Old French, where it had the meaning of putting off or delaying.
Antonyms: Some antonyms of defer include hasten, accelerate, expedite, and advance. These words all convey the opposite idea of moving something forward rather than delaying it.
Synonyms: Synonyms for defer include postpone, delay, put off, shelve, and procrastinate. However, it’s important to note that defer often carries a more formal or official tone compared to some of its synonyms.
Examples use in sentences: Let’s look at some examples of how to use defer in context: The committee decided to defer their decision until more information was available.
Students can defer their university enrollment for a year if they wish to gain work experience first.
In matters of technical expertise, I often defer to my colleague’s judgment. The government has announced it will defer tax payments for small businesses affected by the economic downturn.
Common errors in use: One common mistake is confusing defer with differ. While defer means to postpone or submit, differ means to be unlike or to disagree.
For example, You might say, We will defer the meeting until next week, but you would say, Our opinions differ on this matter.
Another error is using defer with to when it’s not needed. For instance, it’s correct to say, The professor deferred grading the exams, not The professor deferred to grading the exams.
Lastly, remember that when defer means to submit to someone’s authority, it’s often followed by to, as in, I defer to your expertise in this matter.
Understanding the nuances of words like defer can significantly enhance your vocabulary and help you achieve that coveted band 8.0 score in IELTS.
Remember, deferring isn’t about avoiding; it’s about strategically timing your actions or decisions.
Whether you’re writing an essay or engaging in a speaking task, using defer accurately will demonstrate your advanced command of English.
