- Friends
IELTS Speaking Part 1: Sample Questions with Answers
1. How often do you see your friends?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I see my friends quite frequently, as I believe that maintaining close relationships is essential for one’s emotional wellbeing. Typically, we try to meet up at least once a week, either for dinner, drinks or to simply hang out and catch up. We have a very strong bond, and I value their company greatly. In fact, I find it hard to go more than a few days without seeing them. Being around my friends brings me a lot of joy and makes me feel grounded and connected.
I see my friends often because I think it’s important to stay close to them for my emotional health. Usually, we try to get together once a week, whether it’s for food, drinks, or just spending time together. Our bond is strong, and I really appreciate their company. Actually, I find it difficult to go for more than a couple of days without seeing them. Being with my friends makes me happy and helps me feel connected and grounded.
Maintaining close friendships is crucial for my emotional wellbeing, which is why I try to see my friends as often as possible. Typically, we arrange to meet up once a week, whether it’s for a meal, drinks, or just to spend quality time together. The bond between us is very strong, and their company means a great deal to me. In fact, I find it challenging to go more than a few days without seeing them, as being in their presence brings me immense joy and makes me feel a deep sense of connection and belonging.
2. What kind of activities do you enjoy doing with your friends?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I have a varied group of friends, and we enjoy engaging in a range of activities together. We often play sports, such as tennis or basketball, which not only keeps us fit but also allows us to bond and have fun. We also enjoy going to concerts and festivals, trying new restaurants, and going on hikes. Sometimes we also like to simply hang out at each other’s homes and watch movies or play board games. I find that spending time with my friends doing activities we all enjoy is the perfect way to strengthen our friendships.
I have a diverse group of friends, and we like to do many different things together. We often play sports like tennis or basketball, which keeps us in shape and allows us to bond and have a good time. We also enjoy going to music concerts and festivals, trying out new places to eat, and going on hikes. Sometimes, we also like to hang out at each other’s houses and watch movies or play board games. I think spending time with my friends doing things we all like is a great way to make our friendships stronger.
My group of friends consists of individuals with varied interests, and we relish participating in a broad range of activities. We often engage in sports like tennis or basketball, which not only keep us physically fit but also foster a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment. We also take pleasure in attending live music performances and festivals, experimenting with different cuisines at new restaurants, and exploring nature on hikes. On occasion, we also like to relax together at each other’s homes and watch films or indulge in board games. I find that partaking in shared activities with my friends is an ideal means of reinforcing our connections and deepening our relationships.
3. How long have you known your closest friend?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I have been fortunate enough to have a few close friends, but one of them stands out as my closest friend. We have known each other for over a decade now, having met in college. Since then, we have been through a lot together and have always been there for each other, no matter what. I think our shared experiences and history have made our bond very strong, and I feel lucky to have such a friend in my life.
I am lucky to have a few good friends, but my closest friend is someone I met over ten years ago in college. Since then, we have been through a lot together and have always supported each other, no matter what. I think our shared experiences and history have made our friendship very strong, and I feel fortunate to have such a good friend in my life.
I consider myself fortunate to have a handful of close friends, but there is one person in particular who stands out as my closest friend. We first met over ten years ago while we were both in college and have remained close ever since. Over the years, we have weathered many storms together and have always been a source of unwavering support for one another. I believe that the shared experiences and history we have created have cemented an unbreakable bond between us, and I feel privileged to have such an invaluable friend in my life.
4. What qualities do you look for in a friend?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
For me, the most important qualities in a friend are honesty, loyalty, and a good sense of humor. I value honesty because I want my friends to be truthful with me, even if it’s not what I want to hear. Loyalty is also essential because I want to know that my friends have my back, no matter what. And finally, a good sense of humor is important because it helps lighten the mood and make any situation more enjoyable. I find that friends with these qualities not only make my life better but also inspire me to be a better friend myself.
To me, honesty, loyalty, and a good sense of humor are the most significant traits in a friend. Honesty is vital because I appreciate it when my friends tell me the truth, even if it’s not what I want to hear. Loyalty is also crucial because I want to feel like my friends have my support, no matter what. Lastly, a good sense of humor is important because it can make any situation more enjoyable. I find that friends who possess these characteristics not only enhance my life but also inspire me to be a better friend myself.
When it comes to qualities in a friend, I place the utmost value on honesty, loyalty, and a keen sense of humor. Honesty is paramount because I want my friends to always be truthful with me, even if it’s unpleasant. Loyalty is also vital because I desire the knowledge that my friends will support me unconditionally. Lastly, a sharp sense of humor is important because it has the ability to transform any situation and make it more enjoyable. I believe that friends with these characteristics not only enrich my life but also motivate me to be the best friend I can be.
5. Have you ever had a disagreement with a friend? How did you resolve it?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Yes, I have had disagreements with friends before. In one instance, a friend and I had a disagreement about something trivial, but it escalated quickly, and we both ended up saying hurtful things. We eventually calmed down and had an honest conversation about how we were feeling. We both apologized and worked to understand each other’s perspectives. We then made a plan to prevent similar situations from happening again in the future. In the end, our friendship became stronger because of the experience, and we both learned to communicate better with each other.
I have had disagreements with friends before. In one instance, my friend and I had an argument about something small, but it became more significant, and we said things that hurt each other. We eventually talked honestly about our feelings, apologized, and tried to understand each other’s viewpoints. We then made a plan to avoid similar situations in the future. Our friendship became stronger because of the experience, and we learned to communicate better.
Over the course of my life, I have experienced disagreements with friends. In one memorable case, my friend and I had a minor disagreement that quickly escalated into a heated argument. During the aftermath, we engaged in an open and honest dialogue about our emotions, listened to each other’s perspectives, and apologized for any harm we caused. We then worked collaboratively to develop a plan that would prevent future conflicts. In the end, our friendship flourished, and we emerged from the experience with an even deeper understanding and appreciation of each other.
6. Do you think it's better to have many friends or just a few close ones? Why?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
In my opinion, it’s better to have a few close friends than many acquaintances. Quality over quantity is essential in friendships because it’s important to have people you can rely on and trust. Having a small circle of friends also allows for deeper connections and more meaningful experiences together. While it’s great to have a broad social network, it can be challenging to maintain strong relationships with many people. Ultimately, having a few close friends provides a sense of security and comfort that can be difficult to find in larger social circles.
In my opinion, it’s better to have a few close friends than many acquaintances. Quality is more important than quantity in friendships because it’s crucial to have people you can count on and trust. A small group of friends also allows for stronger connections and more meaningful experiences. While having a large social network is nice, it can be tough to maintain close relationships with many people. Ultimately, having a few close friends gives a sense of security and comfort that is difficult to find in larger social circles.
As an adult, I’ve come to realize that it’s better to have a small group of close friends than to maintain a large social network of acquaintances. The reason for this is that genuine connections and meaningful experiences can only be fostered through quality time spent with those closest to us. While having a wide array of friends can provide a sense of social validation, it ultimately doesn’t compare to the comfort and security that comes with a few trusted companions. It’s also easier to maintain strong relationships with a select few than with a large number of people, which can be emotionally taxing and time-consuming.
7. What's the most memorable experience you've had with your friends?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
One of the most memorable experiences I’ve had with my friends was when we went on a road trip across the country. We spent weeks planning and mapping out our route, and we got to see so many amazing sights and landmarks along the way. It was a great bonding experience for us, and we made so many unforgettable memories together. We laughed, sang songs, and even had a few mishaps along the way, but it was all part of the adventure. I’ll never forget that trip and the incredible time I had with my friends.
One of my most unforgettable experiences with my friends was when we took a long road trip across the country. We spent weeks planning and mapping out our route, and we got to see so many amazing sights and landmarks on the way. It was an excellent opportunity for us to bond, and we created a lot of cherished memories together. We sang songs, laughed, and had some adventures along the way, but it was all part of the fun. I will never forget that trip and the fantastic time I had with my friends.
I can say without a doubt that the most memorable experience I’ve had with my friends was the epic cross-country road trip we took. We spent countless hours planning our route, poring over maps, and researching the best sights to see along the way. The trip was a true adventure, and we got to witness so many awe-inspiring natural wonders and cultural landmarks. It was a bonding experience like no other, and we shared countless laughs and inside jokes that still bring a smile to my face today. Looking back, that trip was a defining moment in our friendship, and it will always hold a special place in my heart.
8. How do people usually make friends in your country?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
In my country, people usually make friends through common interests and shared activities. For example, joining clubs or organizations, taking classes or workshops, or participating in community events can be great ways to meet new people who share your interests. Additionally, many people make friends through school or work, as they are often surrounded by like-minded individuals with whom they spend a lot of time. Social media and online communities have also become increasingly popular for making new friends. However, regardless of how people make friends, building and maintaining relationships takes effort and genuine interest in others.
In my country, people often make friends by doing things they enjoy together or by participating in shared interests. This could mean joining clubs, classes, or attending events that are of interest to them. Others may make friends through school or work, where they can interact with like-minded individuals. Online platforms and social media have also become more prevalent for meeting new people. Regardless of the method used, building strong relationships requires genuine interest and effort.
In my country, forging friendships is typically based on common interests and shared activities. This can include joining clubs or organizations, attending classes or workshops, or participating in community events that align with one’s hobbies or passions. Additionally, many people develop close relationships through school or work, where they can spend extended periods of time with like-minded individuals. In recent years, online communities and social media have also become popular avenues for making new friends, particularly among younger generations. However, regardless of the approach, building lasting friendships requires authentic connection, mutual respect, and a willingness to invest time and energy into nurturing those relationships.
9. Have you ever made friends with someone from a different country? How did you meet?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Yes, I have made friends with people from different countries. In fact, some of my closest friends are from different parts of the world. I met them through various means, such as attending international conferences or events, through mutual friends, or online communities. We bonded over shared interests, experiences, and cultural differences, and have remained friends for years. It’s been a great opportunity to learn about different cultures, traditions, and languages, and to expand my worldview.
Yes, I’ve befriended people from other countries before. Actually, some of my best buddies are from different parts of the globe. We met through different ways, like attending global events, through mutual friends, or online groups. We connected by sharing common interests, experiences, and cultural traditions, and have stayed pals for a long time. It’s been a great way to learn about other cultures, customs, and dialects, and to broaden my outlook.
Indeed, I have had the pleasure of cultivating friendships with individuals from diverse countries and backgrounds. As a matter of fact, some of my most cherished and enduring friendships are with people I’ve met from abroad. We crossed paths through a variety of channels, including international conferences, social media platforms, or through mutual acquaintances. We discovered common ground by sharing our passions, histories, and distinct cultural perspectives, and have forged deep and meaningful bonds. It’s been a transformative experience to learn about different cultural norms, beliefs, and practices, and to gain a more nuanced understanding of the world we live in.
10. Do you prefer to hang out with friends of the same gender or the opposite gender? Why?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
I don’t have a preference for hanging out with friends of the same gender or opposite gender. For me, the most important thing is having good company and shared interests. Gender doesn’t play a significant role in determining the quality of friendship.
I don’t really care if I hang out with friends who are the same gender as me or not. The important thing is that we have fun together and have common interests. I don’t think gender matters much when it comes to friendship.
Gender doesn’t play a significant role in my preference for hanging out with friends. What matters most to me is the quality of the friendship and the shared experiences we have together. As long as I feel a strong connection with my friends and we enjoy each other’s company, their gender is irrelevant.
11. What kind of things do you usually talk about with your friends?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
My friends and I talk about a wide range of topics. Sometimes we discuss current events or social issues, other times we share personal stories or talk about our interests. We also enjoy discussing movies, TV shows, and books we’ve read. One thing we always do is support and encourage each other, whether we’re discussing something serious or just having a casual conversation.
I chat about a lot of different things with my buddies. Sometimes we talk about what’s going on in the world or what’s going on in our lives. Other times we talk about stuff that we like, such as movies, TV shows, or books. We are always positive and helpful when we talk, no matter what we talk about.
When I’m with my friends, we have conversations that cover a wide range of topics. We might discuss current events, politics, or society, or we might share personal stories and anecdotes. We’re always eager to learn from each other and hear different perspectives. We’re also passionate about our interests, whether it’s music, art, or literature. Whatever we talk about, we always aim to connect with each other and deepen our understanding of the world.
12. Do you think your friends have had a positive impact on your life? How?
Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5
Without a doubt, my friends have had a profound positive impact on my life. They provide me with emotional support and guidance during difficult times and celebrate my achievements with me. They also expose me to different perspectives and ideas that have helped me grow as a person. I am grateful for their presence in my life and believe that I would not be the person I am today without them.
I definitely think that my friends have had a good influence on me. They are always there for me when I need them, and they cheer me up when I’m feeling down. They’ve also taught me a lot of things that I wouldn’t have learned on my own. I’m really lucky to have them in my life.
Undoubtedly, my friends have had an overwhelmingly positive impact on my life. Their unwavering support and encouragement have helped me navigate challenging times and overcome obstacles. Through our conversations and shared experiences, I have gained a broader understanding of the world and developed a more nuanced perspective on life. Their influence has been instrumental in shaping who I am and who I aspire to be.
