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In IELTS Speaking Part 2, one of the most common task types is describing a person. You may be asked to speak about various kinds of individuals such as a polite person, a famous person, a sportsperson, or a friend. The topic Describe a person who you are happy to know belongs to this category, and it specifically asks you to describe someone you feel happy to have in your life. In this article, IDP IELTS will help you plan your answer and equip you with valuable vocabulary to boost your speaking performance.

1. Topic Analysis: Describe a Person Who You Are Happy to Know - Part 2

The topic Describe a person who you are happy to know is part of the broader Describe a person category, frequently appearing in IELTS Speaking. This type of topic assesses your storytelling ability, vocabulary range, and grammar use in a natural and authentic way.

Cue Card: Describe a person who you are happy to know

You should say:

  • Who this person is

  • How long you have known this person

  • What you do when you are with this person

  • And explain why you are happy to know this person

2. Suggested Outline for the Topic Describe a Person Who You Are Happy to Know

In IELTS Speaking Part 2, you will receive a cue card with prompts to help structure your answer. You will have one minute to prepare and then speak for 1 to 2 minutes.

To prepare effectively, it is important to understand the IELTS Speaking scoring criteria. This will help you improve fluency, expand your vocabulary, and develop logical and cohesive responses.

Outline:

Who this person is

The person I am glad to know is my friend Davis. He has been a close friend and an important part of my life for the past five years.

How long you have known this person

I have known Davis for five years. We first met in our first year of university while working on a group project.

What you do when you are with this person

We enjoy hiking, playing sports, exploring new places, and having meaningful conversations. We also study together, watch movies, and talk about life.

Why you are happy to know this person

Davis brings a lot of positivity, support, and encouragement into my life. He helps me grow, motivates me, and inspires me to be a better version of myself.

3. Sample Answer - IELTS Speaking Part 2

Cue Card: Describe a person who you are happy to know

Sample Answer:

The person I am glad to know is my friend Davis. He is a close friend who has played a meaningful role in my life over the past five years. We first met during our freshman year in college while working on a group project, and we quickly became good friends.

Over the years, our friendship has grown stronger. It is built on shared interests, mutual respect, and deep understanding. We have supported each other through both good and difficult times, and that has made our connection even more meaningful.

When we spend time together, we engage in activities we both enjoy such as hiking, playing sports, and exploring new places. We also like having deep conversations about personal development, current events, and our future goals. Sometimes, we simply hang out, watch a movie, or talk about life. These moments are always enjoyable and meaningful.

I am truly happy to know Davis because he constantly brings motivation and positive energy into my life. He encourages me to work toward my goals and gives me helpful advice when I need it. His presence makes me feel supported, and I am grateful to have him in my life. Our friendship is something I deeply value.

High-Scoring Vocabulary:

  • Glad to know

  • Strong bond

  • Shared interests

  • Deep understanding

  • Ups and downs

  • Cherish deeply

4. Sample Questions and Answers - IELTS Speaking Part 3

Question: What qualities do you believe make a good friend?

I believe the most important qualities of a good friend are loyalty and trustworthiness. A good friend should be someone you can rely on during difficult times. Honesty is also essential for open communication and long-lasting friendship. Additionally, a good friend should be encouraging and empathetic, helping you grow while respecting your individuality.

Vocabulary:

  • Paramount

  • Allegiance

  • Credibility

  • Candor

  • Resilient

  • Empathetic

  • Finest version of yourself

Question: How do friendships evolve as people grow older?

Friendships change as people go through different stages of life. In our youth, we often spend a lot of time with friends, doing fun activities together. As we grow older, responsibilities like family and work may limit our free time. As a result, we tend to form fewer but more meaningful friendships that focus on quality rather than quantity. Long-term friendships also become more flexible and understanding as both individuals go through life changes.

Vocabulary:

  • Metamorphosis

  • Imperatives

  • Significant affiliations

  • Malleable

  • Magnanimous

  • Acquiescing

  • Substance over abundance

Question: Has technology changed the way people make and maintain friendships?

Definitely. Technology has completely changed how people form and maintain friendships. Social media and communication apps have made it easier to stay connected with friends around the world. However, some friendships have become superficial, as people seek digital approval through likes and comments rather than having real conversations. While technology increases connectivity, it may reduce the depth and authenticity of friendships.

Vocabulary:

  • Forge friendships

  • Safeguard relationships

  • Profound transformation

  • Telecommunication platforms

  • Streamlined communication

  • Digital validation

  • Superficial interactions

  • Diminished depth

5. Useful Vocabulary for the Topic Describe a Person Who You Are Happy to Know

Common Vocabulary:

Word

Type

Meaning

Acquaintance

Noun

A person you know slightly

Compassionate

Adjective

Showing sympathy and care

Outgoing

Adjective

Friendly and sociable

Supportive

Adjective

Helpful and encouraging

Charismatic

Adjective

Personally appealing

Mentor

Noun

Trusted advisor

Empathy

Noun

Ability to understand others

Optimistic

Adjective

Hopeful and positive

Genuine

Adjective

Honest and sincere

Bond

Noun

Close connection

Devotion

Noun

Strong loyalty

Affection

Noun

Warm feelings

Open-mindedness

Noun

Willingness to accept ideas

Compatibility

Noun

Ability to get along well

Soulmate

Noun

A deeply connected person

Useful Phrases and Idioms:

Phrase

Meaning

A shoulder to cry on

Someone who offers emotional support

Birds of a feather

People with similar interests or personalities

Go the extra mile

Do more than expected

Get along with

Have a good relationship with

Hit it off

Get along instantly

Fall for

Feel affection or love

Have your back

Be supportive and protective

A friend in need is a friend indeed

True friends show support during hard times

Through thick and thin

Stay together during good and bad times

Be Confident in Your IELTS Speaking Test with IDP

This article has provided you with ideas, structures, and vocabulary to help you master the topic Describe a person who you are happy to know. Understanding this topic will not only improve your fluency and coherence but also increase your chances of achieving a high band score.

To better prepare for the IELTS Speaking test, consider taking a mock test at IDP. This is a great way to practice under real test conditions and receive feedback on your performance.

When you register for the IELTS test with IDP, you can choose between IELTS General Speaking or IELTS Academic Speaking depending on your goals. Plus, IDP offers flexible test schedules throughout the week to suit your availability.

Prepare well and register for your IELTS test with IDP today to enjoy limited-time exclusive offers.

Take IELTS with IDP - Confident and comfortable, achieve your goal!

About this Article

Published on 14 January, 2025

About this Author

One Skill Retake - IELTS Australia
Quynh Khanh

Tôi là Quỳnh Khanh - Content Writer có hơn 5 năm kinh nghiệm về lĩnh vực giáo dục