At some point, we all experience moments when time seems to pass slowly, especially when waiting for something truly special. This topic belongs to the "experience" category, which is very common in IELTS Speaking Part 2 and 3.
In this article, IDP will provide sample answers, vocabulary, and ideas to help you deliver a clear and impressive response.
1. Topic Breakdown: Describe an Occasion When You Waited a Long Time for a Nice Thing – IELTS Speaking Part 2
In IELTS Speaking Part 2, you will be given a cue card with a specific topic and prompts to help you structure your answer. You’ll have 1 minute to take notes and 1–2 minutes to speak.
Cue Card: Describe an occasion when you waited a long time for a nice thing
You should say:
When it happened
What the nice thing was
How long you waited
Why you waited a long time
And explain how you felt about the experience
2. Sample Outline – Describe an Occasion When You Waited a Long Time for a Nice Thing
In this part of the test, the examiner will evaluate the logic of your arguments and your vocabulary and grammar skills. Below is an outline and sample arguments to help you get more ideas for your answers:
When it happened
| When I waited for a concert. It was held by Mayday, a well-known band from Taiwan. |
What the nice thing was
| This is one of my favorite bands that I have loved for so many years, there are dozens of songs saved in my musical player that I have listened to tons of times. Watching their concert had always been the most highly anticipated thing ever on my bucket list |
How long have you waited
| Just two months ago in July, I was informed by my friend that they were going to hold their concert in my city I bought the ticket and just couldn’t wait to see them |
Why you waited for a long time
| The lead singer’s exceptional vocal range and showmanship really impressed me a lot The songs brought me back to my middle school years when I first heard their songs. |
And explain how you felt about the experience | I was on the edge of my seat, bowled over by their energy and enthusiasm It was worth all the long wait. |
3. Sample Answer – Describe an Occasion When You Waited a Long Time for a Nice Thing (Part 2)
Describe an occasion when you waited a long time for a nice thing
One thing I eagerly waited for a long time was the opportunity to attend my favorite university. This wasn't just a matter of choosing any university; it was about securing a spot in a highly competitive institution that aligned perfectly with my academic and career aspirations.
I waited patiently for this chance because my dream university was renowned for its academic excellence and offered specialized programs that were a perfect fit for my career goals. To gain admission, I had to work diligently throughout my high school years, maintain outstanding grades, and participate in extracurricular activities that showcased my commitment and passion.
The wait was both anxiety-inducing and exciting. I invested a significant amount of time and effort into the application process, including writing compelling essays and preparing for entrance exams. Waiting for the acceptance letter felt like an eternity, filled with anticipation and self-doubt.
When the long-awaited acceptance letter finally arrived, it was an overwhelming moment of joy and relief. The feeling of accomplishment was indescribable, knowing that my hard work had paid off, and I was on the path to attending my dream university. It was a transformative experience, and the anticipation was well worth the satisfaction of realizing my long-cherished academic goal.
Band-Boosting Vocabulary:
Eagerly: with excitement
Secure a spot: earn a place
Competitive: challenging
Aspiration: ambition or goal
Renowned: well-known
Gain admission: be accepted
Showcase: demonstrate
Compelling: convincing
Self-doubt: lack of confidence
Indescribable: hard to describe
Hard work pay off: efforts lead to success
4. Bài mẫu topic Describe an occasion when you waited a long time for a nice thing - Part 3
Question: Are most people patient while waiting?
Not everyone is patient. While some people stay calm, others get restless or frustrated, especially if the wait is longer than expected. Patience depends on personality, what they are waiting for, and the situation.
Useful Vocabulary:
Restless: unable to relax
Frustrated: annoyed or upset
Personal temperament: natural personality
Question: Why do most children find it hard to wait for a long time?
Children have short attention spans and underdeveloped impulse control. Waiting feels endless to them. Since they are still learning emotional regulation, it often leads to impatience and tantrums.
Useful Vocabulary:
Attention spans: ability to focus
Impulse control: ability to resist urges
Gratification: satisfaction
Maturity: emotional growth
Tantrums: emotional outbursts
Question: What occasions do people wait a long time for?
People often wait for big life events like weddings, the birth of a child, or career achievements. These moments involve planning and bring excitement and nervousness. The wait makes these milestones more meaningful.
Useful Vocabulary:
Milestone: important event
Anticipation: excitement for something
A sense of excitement: feeling thrilled
Mark: to highlight an event
5. Topic Vocabulary – Describe an Occasion When You Waited a Long Time for a Nice Thing
General Vocabulary
Word/Phrase | Meaning |
Cognitive | Related to thinking or understanding |
Impatient | Lacking patience |
Conscientious | Careful and responsible |
Eagerly awaiting | Waiting with excitement |
Getting antsy | Becoming restless or nervous |
Nerve-wracking | Causing stress or anxiety |
Useful Collocations
Collocation | Meaning |
Sense of joy and fulfillment | Feeling of complete happiness |
Part of something special | Included in a meaningful event |
Buzzing with anticipation | Full of excitement |
Test your patience | Challenge your ability to wait |
A rush of relief and joy | A sudden feeling of happiness and calm |
Useful Idioms
Idiom | Meaning |
As comfy as a rock | Very uncomfortable |
Time and tide wait for no man | Time never stops |
Every minute seems like a thousand | Time passes very slowly |
Donkey’s years | A very long time |
Hold your horses | Wait patiently |
Boost Your IELTS Speaking Confidence with IDP
We hope this guide helps you handle the topic “Describe an occasion when you waited a long time for a nice thing” effectively and achieve a high band score. Practice your answers regularly, focus on grammar, and speak clearly and confidently.
When registering for the IELTS test with IDP, you can choose between IELTS Academic Speaking and IELTS General Speaking depending on your goals. IDP offers flexible test dates and allows you to select your speaking test day.
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