Of course! "Borrow something" is a very common and high-frequency topic in IELTS Speaking Part 1. It can also easily appear in Part 2 (Cue Card) and Part 3 (Discussion).

Here is a comprehensive guide to help you tackle this topic effectively, with vocabulary, sample answers, and tips.

Part 1: General Questions

Examiners often start with simple, direct questions.

Do you often borrow things from other people?

• Vocabulary: frequently, occasionally, not really, borrow, lend, rent, share.
• Sample Answer (High Score):

  "Yes, I do, though I try not to make it a habit. I think it's perfectly normal to borrow things occasionally, especially items you only need for a short time. For instance, I often borrow books from my friends if I'm not sure I want to buy them, or maybe a power bank if my phone dies unexpectedly. I believe it's a practical way to share resources and save money."

  

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What kinds of things do people usually borrow?

• Vocabulary: everyday items, necessities, big-ticket items, non-essential, tools, books, money, car, equipment.
• Sample Answer (High Score):

  "Well, it really depends on the situation. For everyday needs, people might borrow things like pens, umbrellas on a rainy day, or even a small amount of cash from a colleague. On a larger scale, you might borrow a car from a family member for a road trip or specialized tools from a neighbor for a DIY project. I think the most common things are those that are either expensive to own or are only needed temporarily."

Do you like lending things to others? Why or why not?

• Vocabulary: hesitate, reluctant, trust, responsible, get damaged, sentimental value, reciprocal.
• Sample Answer (High Score):

  "That's an interesting question. I'm generally happy to lend things to people I know well, like my close friends or family, because I trust them to take good care of my belongings. However, I can be a bit more hesitant with acquaintances. My main concern is that the item might get lost or damaged, especially if it's something with sentimental value, like my grandfather's old camera. I believe lending is a two-way street, and it helps build stronger relationships when everyone is responsible."

  

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What's the difference between "borrowing" and "lending"?

• Vocabulary: clear distinction, perspective, direction, recipient, giver.
• Sample Answer (High Score):

  "The difference is all about direction. Borrowing is the act of taking something from someone else, with the intention of returning it later. So, from my perspective, I am the borrower. Lending, on the other hand, is the act of giving something to someone else, expecting them to return it. In that same scenario, my friend would be the lender. It's really just two sides of the same social interaction."

Part 2: Cue Card (Long Turn)

This is where you can tell a more detailed story.

Describe something you borrowed from a friend or family member. You should say:

• What it was
• When and from whom you borrowed it
• Why you needed to borrow it
• And explain how you felt about borrowing it.

Sample Answer (High Score):

"I'd like to talk about a time I borrowed my dad's car, which was a really helpful experience.

What it was and from whom: The item was his Honda Civic, a reliable and comfortable sedan. I borrowed it from my dad about two years ago. He's usually very protective of his car, so I knew I had to ask him properly and convince him that I was responsible enough.

When and why I needed it: This happened during the final week of my university exams. I had a crucial presentation in a city about an hour's drive away, and public transport would have been a nightmare with all the luggage and equipment I had to carry—a laptop, some printed materials, and even a small model for my presentation. More importantly, the presentation was scheduled for early in the morning, and taking the first bus would have meant leaving my apartment at 4 a.m., which was just not feasible. So, having a car was absolutely essential for me to get there on time and in a stress-free manner.

How I felt about borrowing it: To be honest, I felt a mix of emotions. On one hand, I was incredibly grateful and relieved. Having the car gave me a huge sense of security and independence. I could plan my own schedule, arrive early to check the venue, and feel calm before my presentation. On the other hand, I was quite nervous. I was worried about something happening to the car, like getting a minor scratch in a busy parking lot, or even worse, being in a minor accident. I knew my dad would be upset. So, I drove extra carefully and made sure to return it with a full tank of petrol as a small thank you. In the end, everything went smoothly, and my presentation was a success. I think that experience taught me the importance of both asking for help when you need it and being incredibly responsible with things that don't belong to you."

Part 3: Discussion (Deeper Questions)

Here, you discuss more abstract ideas related to the topic.

Why do some people feel reluctant to borrow things?

• Sample Answer:

  "I think there are several reasons for this. Primarily, it comes down to a fear of causing trouble or damaging the item. People might feel a sense of obligation or anxiety, worrying that they won't be able to return it in the same condition. There's also the issue of pride; some individuals prefer to be self-sufficient and not feel like they owe anyone anything. Furthermore, with modern conveniences like subscription services and rentals, people can often get what they need without the social commitment of borrowing."

Do you think technology has changed the way people borrow things?

• Sample Answer:

  "Absolutely, technology has revolutionized this area. In the past, borrowing was limited to your immediate social circle—family, friends, and neighbors. Now, with platforms like Fat Llama or peer-to-peer rental apps, you can borrow almost anything from a complete stranger, from a camera lens to a power tool. This has made borrowing more accessible and convenient. On the flip side, it has also introduced new complexities, like trust issues with people you don't know and the need for secure payment systems and insurance."

What are the pros and cons of borrowing versus buying?

• Sample Answer:

  "That's a great question. The main pro of borrowing is cost-effectiveness and sustainability. You avoid the high upfront cost of purchasing an item you might only use once, and it's better for the environment as it promotes a sharing economy. It also saves on storage space. The con, however, is the lack of convenience and ownership. You're dependent on the item being available, and you have to adhere to someone else's rules. The main pro of buying is convenience and freedom of use. You have the item whenever you want, and you can modify or use it however you like. The biggest con is the financial cost and the fact that you might be left with something you no longer need, which is wasteful."

Key Vocabulary & Phrases to Use

• Nouns:

  • an item / a possession / a belonging
  • a necessity / an essential
  • a big-ticket item (expensive thing)
  • a favor (as in, "to do someone a favor")
  • a loan (usually for money)
  • rental / lease (for property or cars)

• Verbs:

  • to lend / to loan (AmE)
  • to borrow
  • to ask to borrow
  • to be in need of something
  • to return / to give back
  • to take care of / to look after
  • to damage / to break / to scratch

• Adjectives & Adverbs:

  • reliable / durable
  • sentimental value
  • reluctant / hesitant
  • trustworthy / responsible
  • temporary / short-term
  • convenient / inconvenient
  • cost-effective / a waste of money

• Useful Phrases:

  • "I'm not one to borrow things often..."
  • "It depends on the circumstances."
  • "I believe it's a matter of trust."
  • "On the one hand..., but on the other hand..."
  • "It's a two-way street."
  • "It taught me a valuable lesson about..."

By using this structure and vocabulary, you can demonstrate a wide range of language and provide well-developed, natural-sounding answers for any "