Describe a time when you bought something expensive
Describe a time when you bought something expensive
You should say:
- What you bought
- Why you bought it
- How you felt about the purchase
- And explain whether it was worth the money
One minute to prepare, then speak for one to two minutes.
How to plan it in one minute
- Identify the item clearly and explain the specific need that triggered the purchase.
- Use descriptive adjectives to explain your emotional state during and after the transaction.
- Evaluate the purchase by linking the cost to long-term benefits or personal well-being.
Band 8 model answer
A couple of years ago, I decided to splurge on a high-end ergonomic office chair. After transitioning to remote work, I found myself spending ten hours a day hunched over my laptop, which eventually led to chronic back pain. I realised that my makeshift wooden kitchen chair was simply not cutting it for long-term comfort. I spent weeks scouring the internet for reviews before settling on a top-tier model from a reputable Scandinavian furniture brand. It cost a small fortune, setting me back nearly eight hundred pounds, which was a significant dent in my savings at the time. When the package arrived, I felt a mix of apprehension and excitement; I was worried I might have fallen for a marketing gimmick, but the moment I sat down, the difference was palpable. The mesh material was breathable, and the lumbar support felt like it was moulded specifically for my spine. The adjustment mechanisms were intuitive, allowing me to tailor every angle to my posture. Looking back, I can confidently say that this was worth every penny. Beyond the immediate physical comfort, it transformed my productivity. I no longer finish my working day feeling physically drained or stiff, which has actually improved my overall mood and focus. Investing in my health through a piece of furniture might sound excessive to some, but considering the countless hours I spend at my desk, it has proven to be an essential tool rather than a luxury item. It was a steep upfront cost, but the relief from back pain has been absolutely priceless.
258 words, about two minutes at a natural pace. Details are invented; use your own.
Vocabulary from the answer
- splurge
- spending a large amount of money on luxury
- makeshift
- temporary substitute used during an emergency or need
- scouring
- searching thoroughly and quickly through a place
- palpable
- so intense as to be easily felt or noticed
- lumbar support
- a feature providing comfort for the lower back
- steep
- an adjective describing an excessively high price
- upfront cost
- the initial payment required before using a service
- priceless
- extremely useful or valuable beyond any monetary measure
Part 3 questions that follow this card
- How has shopping changed in recent years?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of online shopping?
- Do you think people are too materialistic today?
- How important is it to be a smart consumer?
- What role does advertising play in consumer behavior?
- How do you think shopping will change in the future?
Answer each in three to five sentences: position, reason, example, limit. See the Part 3 guide.
Say it out loud and get a band
Record this card with the AI examiner: one minute of prep, two minutes to speak, then a band for fluency, vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation with the words that cost you.
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Frequently asked questions
How should I start the cue card "Describe a time when you bought something expensive"?
Identify the item clearly and explain the specific need that triggered the purchase.
How long should my answer be?
Speak for the full two minutes, about 220 to 280 words at a natural pace. The examiner will stop you at two minutes, which is a good sign, not a problem.
Can I use this model answer in the exam?
Use its structure and vocabulary, not its sentences. Examiners recognise memorised answers and mark fluency down; a shorter answer from your own memory scores higher than a recited one.
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