CAE SPEAKING USEFUL PHRASES AND TIPS

CAE Speaking test lasts approximately 15 minutes per candidate and is divided into for
parts.
Part 1 assesses the use of language in social environments so candidates are made general
questions about aspects of daily life and personal opinions. It should be avoided to answer
only yes or no and try to give examples or add anecdotes to the answers.
In part 2 candidates interact each other. In this part, it is essential to use vocabulary and
phrases to compare and contrast ideas, photos and opinions. First, candidate A must
compare two pictures for a minute according to the asked question. It is very important to
answer what is asked. After this, candidate B has thirty seconds to answer a question
(usually related to what candidate A has asked). Afterwards, the process is repeated with the
other candidate.
In part 3, candidates should use phrases expressing agreement or disagreement and
comparing ideas. A chart is presented to candidates. They should discuss the topic, and
finally, have one minute to reach an agreement.
In part 4, the candidate is asked questions about a specific topic related to part 3. In this
part, the candidate must use phrases to
Here we have some useful phrases:
Expressing likes and dislikes:
•I'm keen on...

•I like nothing more than...

•I can't stand/bear...

Expressing our opinion:

•As far as I’m concerned...

•From my point of view...

•In my humble opinion...

Comparing and contrasting pictures:

•Both pictures show...

•While in this picture... in the other...

Describing pictures:
•What strikes me most from this picture...

•What catches my attention is...

•This picture shows...

Asking for the other candidate's opinion:
•What are your thoughts on this?

•What do you think of...?

•What about...?

Expressing agreement:
•I totally/partially/absolutely agree.

•I couldn’t agree more.

•I’m with you 100% on this one.

Expressing disagreement:
•I totally/partially/absolutely disagree.

•I take your point but...

•I beg to differ.

Asking for repetition:

•I beg your pardon, I didn’t catch that.

•Sorry would you mind repeating that?

•Could you repeat the question please?

Other tips
•Listen attentively.

•Speak what is necessary and let the other candidate speak.

•Make eye contact.

•Use body language correctly.