FCE Speaking phrases: useful language for every part of the test

Phrases are tools, not decorations. A good phrase gives you a second to think, shows the examiner how your ideas connect, and makes your English sound natural. A phrase used in the wrong place, or the same phrase used ten times, does the opposite.

So do not try to learn every phrase on this page. Instead:

• Choose two or three phrases from each group that you like and that feel natural in your mouth.
• Practise them in real answers using our Part 1 questions and Part 4 questions.
• Say them aloud until you can produce them without thinking. A phrase you have to remember is a phrase that slows you down.
• Add one new phrase per week and drop any that you never use.

Many of the linking phrases you use in writing work in speaking too. Compare this page with our FCE linking words guide.

Use a neutral phrase most of the time. Save strong phrases for topics you really feel strongly about; using them for everything sounds odd. Tentative phrases are excellent in Part 4 when a question is difficult, because they let you give an answer while showing it is not your final word. Whatever phrase you use, follow it with a reason: an opinion phrase with nothing after it does not help you.

In Speaking Part 2, start with a comparing phrase and then use speculating phrases for the rest of your minute. Use must only when the photo gives clear evidence ('They must be cold: they're wearing hats and gloves'). Use might, could and seem when you are guessing. Mixing these shows the examiner a range of modal verbs, which is a clear sign of B2 grammar.

These phrases are the heart of Speaking Part 3. Use an inviting phrase every time you finish a turn of two or three sentences, so your partner has space to speak. Use interrupting phrases only when your partner has spoken for a long time, and do it gently. In the final minute, use decision phrases to bring the discussion to an end; if you cannot agree, 'We'll have to agree to disagree' is a perfectly good finish.