In the IELTS Speaking Part 2 and 3 tests, the topic "Describe a person who always has strong opinions" is a common question type. It helps examiners evaluate your ability to express emotions, describe personalities, and provide personal insights. In this task, you are expected not only to describe a specific individual but also to explain clearly why you consider this person to be opinionated and firm in their views.
In this article, IDP provides a comprehensive guide to help you approach this topic confidently—from brainstorming ideas in Part 2 to expanding your answers effectively in Part 3.
1. Topic Analysis – Describe a Person Who Always Has Strong Opinions
When tackling this topic, choose someone you know well—such as a close friend, a family member, or a mentor. Selecting a familiar person will help you describe their traits naturally and provide authentic examples.
For instance, think of someone who frequently shares sharp and well-thought-out opinions on various aspects of life, from politics to social issues. They often lead passionate discussions and are not afraid to express themselves confidently. Their views tend to spark meaningful conversations and offer you new perspectives.
Cue Card: Describe a person who always has strong opinions
You should say:
Who is this person?
How do you know this person?
What interesting ideas/opinions this person has?
Why do you think that the ideas/opinions of this person are interesting?
How did you feel after meeting this person?
2. Sample Outline – Describe a Person Who Always Has Strong Opinions
Below is an outline and sample arguments you can refer to for the topic “Describe a person who always has strong opinions”:
Who is this person | One person whose ideas I find particularly intriguing is a close friend of mine, Sarah She is a writer and environmental activist. I really admire that she is well-informed and forms her opinions based on facts rather than emotions. |
How do you know this person
| I met Sarah during a sustainability conference about five years ago We sometimes discuss various environmental and societal issues. |
What interesting ideas/opinions this person has
| Her unique perspective on how we can merge technology with environmental conservation She frequently discusses how AI could improve farming methods, make more accurate predictions about climate change. She promotes "Eco-literacy," or the requirement of teaching environmental awareness from an early age and integrating it into all educational levels. |
Why do you think that the ideas/opinions of this person are interesting | Her ideas are fascinating to me since they are grounded in pragmatism and forward-thinking. She proposes technologically sound remedies that could have a significant long-term effect on the entire world, rather than only focusing on the problems. |
How did you feel after meeting this person | Her opinions go against the frequently conventional approaches to environmental concerns in favor of creativity and forward-thinking approaches. This kind of thinking, in my opinion, is exactly what we need to combat the current environmental crises effectively! |
3. Band 8+ Sample Answer – IELTS Speaking Part 2
Cue Card: Describe a person who always has strong opinions
Sample Answer: One person I know who holds strong and consistent opinions is my colleague, Minh. I met him when I joined my current company, and over time, we’ve become close friends. Minh never hesitates to express his views and maintains a clear stance on various topics, from work-related matters to politics and social justice.
What makes Minh stand out is his unwavering confidence and how thoroughly he researches before drawing any conclusions. He doesn’t follow trends blindly and avoids superficial opinions. In discussions, he is always articulate and often sparks thought-provoking conversations.
He has especially firm beliefs about environmental sustainability. He strongly supports waste reduction and urges both individuals and governments to take action against climate change. Minh also advocates for social equality, often standing up for fair treatment and inclusivity.
Although his opinions can sometimes feel intense, I genuinely admire his integrity and his courage to speak out. Even when I disagree with him, our conversations are enriching and often prompt me to reflect on my own viewpoints. I believe his critical thinking has made me more socially aware and mindful.
High-scoring vocabulary:
strongly held convictions
cross paths with
voice his opinions
well-defined stance
unwavering confidence
fleeting trends
mainstream narrative
thought-provoking debates
prominent viewpoints
proactive role
firm principles
championing fairness and equality
socially conscious and reflective
4. Sample Part 3 Answers – Describe a Person Who Always Has Strong Opinions
Q: What aspects do young people have strong opinions about?
Today’s youth tend to hold strong views on environmental protection and mental health. Many actively support sustainable living and speak out against climate change. They also value mental health awareness, encouraging open dialogue and pushing to remove stigma. These causes resonate deeply with young generations as they reflect hopes for a fairer and healthier future.
Vocabulary:
contemporary youth
well-informed opinions
committed to combating
advocating for sustainable policies
lifestyle shifts
open dialogue
eliminate stigma
equitable access
resonate deeply with
Q: Which is more important, listening to others or persuading others?
In most cases, listening is more important. Active listening allows us to understand different viewpoints and build stronger relationships. While persuasion is useful—especially when promoting change—without real listening, it can feel pushy or disconnected.
Effective communication is rooted in attentive listening, which fosters empathy, mutual respect, and meaningful dialogue.
Vocabulary:
holds greater significance
active listening
diverse perspectives
fosters stronger interpersonal connections
drive meaningful change
tone-deaf
rooted in
constructive dialogue
mutual respect
Q: How has the Internet changed how people form and express opinions?
The Internet has significantly changed how people form and express their opinions. It provides easy access to diverse information, encouraging independent thinking. Social media, in particular, allows users to instantly share personal views and engage in debates or activism.
The anonymity of the online world gives people the confidence to express themselves more openly. However, it can also lead to toxic behavior like trolling, which undermines respectful discourse.
Vocabulary:
profoundly transformed
articulate their opinions
pivotal role
democratizing access
a wide array of perspectives
well-informed viewpoint
dissemination of beliefs
embolden users
toxic behaviors
undermine public discourse
5. Vocabulary for the Topic “Describe a Person Who Always Has Strong Opinions”
General vocabulary:
Term | Meaning | Example |
cultural norms | societal standards | Different nations follow different cultural norms. |
lively debates | energetic discussions | The new law sparked lively debates. |
non-judgemental | accepting, not critical | She’s a non-judgemental listener. |
positive reinforcement | encouragement through praise | Teachers use positive reinforcement effectively. |
uncompromising | firm and inflexible | He was known for his uncompromising standards. |
conviction | strong belief | She spoke with great conviction. |
candid | honest and straightforward | He gave a candid reply to the tough question. |
Common collocations:
speak one's mind
have a clear stance
stand up for
encourage independent thinking
foster open-mindedness
pass down life lessons
embrace progressive ideas
challenge conventional wisdom
respect different perspectives
hold a strong view on
Useful idioms:
stand your ground
if my memory serves me right
open someone’s eyes
double-edged sword
call a spade a spade
not afraid to ruffle feathers
black-and-white thinker
have a mind of one’s own
Master the IELTS Speaking Test with IDP
We hope these ideas, vocabulary, and sample answers help you confidently tackle the “Describe a person who always has strong opinions” topic in your IELTS Speaking test. Make use of IDP's high-quality IELTS preparation materials, mock tests, and expert tips to sharpen your speaking skills.
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