Formal Phrases for CELPIP Writing

The Celpip Plus team

Written and reviewed against the official CELPIP scoring criteria

Updated October 4, 202614 min read

When to use formal phrases in CELPIP Writing

The phrases on this page work for any topic, which is why they are collected here instead of on each topic page. Use them in Writing Task 1 when you email someone you don't know well, such as a manager, a landlord, a city office or a company, and in every Writing Task 2 survey response. In an email to a friend or a relative, most of them will sound too stiff, so choose the plainer word ("so", "but", "also") instead.

Each phrase comes with its use and one example sentence written for a Task 1 email or a Task 2 survey response. Close variants, such as "in light of" and "in light of recent changes", share one row, with the alternatives named in the middle column.

For phrases tied to one subject, such as "a doctor's note" or "a registration fee", see the topic pages, for example CELPIP Vocabulary for Work and Careers and CELPIP Vocabulary for Problem-Solving and Opinions.

Giving reasons

Use these to explain why you are writing, why something happened, or why you hold a view.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
due to unforeseen circumstances	gives a reason for a change you could not predict, without private details	Due to unforeseen circumstances, I will be unable to attend Saturday's volunteer shift.
in light of	because of a new fact; also "in light of recent changes" or "in light of rising costs"	In light of the recent rent increase, I would like to discuss signing a longer lease.
this is largely due to	names the main cause of something you have just described	Parking near our building has become very difficult. This is largely due to the two new condo towers on Elm Street.
as a precautionary measure	explains an action taken to prevent a problem	As a precautionary measure, I have cancelled my credit card and asked for a new one.
in the interest of	names the principle behind a request, as in "in the interest of fairness"	In the interest of fairness, I suggest that overtime shifts be shared equally among staff.
it is widely acknowledged that	introduces a view most people accept; also "it is generally accepted that"	It is widely acknowledged that parks and green spaces improve residents' quality of life.
it could be argued that	introduces a claim carefully; also "it is often argued that"	It could be argued that a four-day week would make staff more focused.
research suggests that	refers to general evidence; also "evidence indicates that"	Research suggests that short breaks help people concentrate, so a longer lunch could benefit everyone.
a growing body of evidence suggests	more and more studies point the same way; also "a growing body of research"	A growing body of evidence suggests that children who read for pleasure do better at school.
there is a strong case for	says there are good reasons to support something; also "a compelling case can be made for"	There is a strong case for keeping the library open on Sunday afternoons.

Adding a point

Use these to move from one reason to the next. One per paragraph is usually enough.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
furthermore / moreover	adds a second, often stronger point	Furthermore, the new playground would give young families a safe place to meet.
in addition	adds another point; a little more neutral than "furthermore"	In addition, a weekly farmers' market would bring customers to local shops.
another key factor is	introduces another important reason	Another key factor is cost, since Option B would be about half as expensive.
it is worth noting that	adds a useful fact the reader might miss	It is worth noting that the current shuttle stops running at 6 p.m.
in terms of	focuses on one aspect, such as cost, time or safety	In terms of cost, Option A is the more realistic choice.
this raises the question of	adds a related issue the reader should think about	This raises the question of who will look after the garden after the first year.
this raises concerns about	adds a worry; also "there is growing concern about"	The city plans to remove the crosswalk near the school. This raises concerns about the safety of children.

Contrasting

Use these to show the other side, answer an objection, or limit a claim so it doesn't sound too strong.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
on the other hand	introduces the opposite side of an argument	On the other hand, a staff gym would mainly benefit people who already exercise.
in contrast	shows a clear difference between two things	Option A would help a few hundred residents. In contrast, Option B would serve the whole city.
some would argue that	presents the opposing view fairly before you answer it	Some would argue that a pool costs too much to maintain. However, it would be used all year.
this is not to say that	stops your point from sounding too strong	This is not to say that the current schedule has no benefits.
to a certain extent	partly, but not completely	To a certain extent, I agree that parking fees discourage visitors.
in principle	true as an idea, even if it is harder in practice	In principle, I support a car-free downtown, but this is not the right time.
despite	shows a contrast; followed by a noun or an -ing form, never "despite of"	Despite the convenience of online ordering, many seniors in our area still prefer to shop in person.
is not without its drawbacks	admits that a plan has disadvantages; also "a notable drawback is"	Option A is not without its drawbacks, since construction would close the park for a whole summer.
a double-edged sword	something with both clear benefits and clear risks	Working from home is a double-edged sword: it saves commuting time, but it can feel isolating.

Giving examples

Use these to bring in a specific case, a number or a change you have noticed. Examples make a survey response convincing.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
for instance	introduces one specific example	For instance, my daughter's swimming class was cancelled three times last month.
a case in point is	introduces an example that proves your point	A case in point is the community garden on Oak Avenue, which now has a waiting list.
as illustrated by	points to an example that shows your claim; also "this is best illustrated by"	Demand for evening classes is high, as illustrated by the forty people on last term's waiting list.
a significant number of	a large but not exact amount; also "a considerable proportion of"	A significant number of tenants have complained about the noise from the parking garage.
a marked increase / decrease in	a clear, noticeable change	Since the speed bumps were installed, there has been a marked decrease in speeding on our street.

Cause and effect

Use these to connect a problem to its results, or a proposal to its benefits.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
as a result of	because of; also "as a direct consequence of"	As a result of the bridge closure, my commute now takes an extra forty minutes.
consequently	as a result, joining two sentences; also "as a consequence"	The elevator has been broken for two weeks. Consequently, some older residents cannot leave their apartments.
this has resulted in	describes an effect that has already happened	The heating has not worked since Monday. This has resulted in several tenants buying space heaters.
this can lead to	describes a likely effect	Staff often work ten hours without a break. This can lead to mistakes and injuries.
this trend can be attributed to	names the cause of a pattern	More young families are leaving the downtown core. This trend can be attributed to high rents.
plays a significant role in	is an important influence on; also "plays a crucial role in" or "plays a pivotal role in"	A reliable bus service plays a significant role in whether people choose to drive.
this has significant implications for	warns that something will have important effects on a group	Closing the clinic on weekends has significant implications for working parents.
this suggests that	draws a conclusion from facts	The new class filled up in one day. This suggests that there is strong demand for evening programs.
in the long run	describes effects over many years	Insulating the building would cost more now, but it would save money in the long run.
with this in mind	connects your next point to what you have just said	With this in mind, I would suggest moving the monthly meeting to the evening.

Making a request politely

Use these in Writing Task 1 to open an email, ask for something, complain politely and close. Pick one opening line and one closing line; don't use several of each.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
I am writing to request	states your request in the first line	I am writing to request a refund for the yoga class that was cancelled on May 12.
I am writing to inform you that	states news or information in the first line	I am writing to inform you that I will be moving out at the end of June.
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with	opens a complaint politely	I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the repairs done on my car last week.
I would like to bring to your attention	raises a problem politely; also "draw your attention to"	I would like to bring to your attention a broken light in the underground parking.
it has come to my attention that	introduces a problem you have discovered	It has come to my attention that the fire exit on the third floor is blocked by boxes.
I regret to inform you that	gives bad news politely	I regret to inform you that I can no longer coach the Saturday soccer team.
I would be grateful if you could	a polite, formal request; also "I would appreciate it if you could"	I would be grateful if you could send me a copy of my lease.
in response to	opens a reply to a letter, notice or ad	In response to your notice about the parking lot repairs, I would like to ask where tenants should park.
at your earliest convenience	as soon as you can, said politely	Please let me know at your earliest convenience whether Tuesday works for you.
with regard to	introduces the subject; also "with respect to" (not "with regards to")	With regard to the parking permit, I have attached proof of my new address.
in accordance with	following a rule or agreement	In accordance with the terms of my lease, I am giving two months' notice.
fall short of expectations	says politely that something was disappointing	Unfortunately, the catering for our office party fell short of expectations.
take the necessary steps	do what is needed to fix or prevent a problem	I trust you will take the necessary steps to prevent this from happening again.
should the issue persist	says what you will do if nothing changes	Should the issue persist, I will contact the city's bylaw office.
I would appreciate your understanding	asks the reader to accept a difficulty	I would appreciate your understanding while I recover from surgery.
I will keep you informed of any developments	promises updates	I will keep you informed of any developments regarding the insurance claim.
I would be grateful for your prompt attention	a closing that asks for quick action; also "I hope this matter will be addressed promptly"	I would be grateful for your prompt attention to this matter, as the leak is getting worse.
I look forward to your response	a polite last line before the sign-off; also "should you require further information, please contact me"	Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.

Concluding and recommending

Use these in the last paragraph of a survey response, or when you tell the reader what should happen next.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
in conclusion	introduces the final paragraph; also "to summarize" or "overall"	In conclusion, Option B would serve more residents for less money.
on balance	after weighing both sides	On balance, I believe longer library hours would be the better investment.
on the whole	generally, looking at everything together	On the whole, the new recycling program has worked well in our building.
all things considered	gives your final judgment after considering everything; also "taking everything into account"	All things considered, I would choose the community garden over the parking lot.
for the reasons outlined above	points back to the reasons you gave; also "for the aforementioned reasons" or "in light of the above"	For the reasons outlined above, I strongly support Option A.
ultimately	introduces the most important point at the end	Ultimately, the safety of children should come first.
it is essential that	says that something must happen; also "it is imperative that"	It is essential that the repairs be finished before winter.
take into consideration	asks the reader to think about something before deciding	I hope the committee will take residents' work schedules into consideration.
strike a balance between	find a fair middle point between two needs	The city needs to strike a balance between new housing and green space.
a viable solution	a realistic fix that can actually work	A shuttle bus from the train station would be a viable solution.
a step in the right direction	an improvement, though not a complete solution	Adding one more evening class would be a step in the right direction.

Use them naturally

These phrases help only when they fit what you are saying. A few habits keep them natural:

Don't stack them. "Furthermore, in addition, it is worth noting that..." says "and" three times. One connector at the start of a point is enough.
Don't start every sentence with one. Most sentences in a good email or survey response begin with their subject. Save the connectors for moving between points.
Match the reader. "I would be grateful if you could" suits an email to a landlord; "Could you..." suits an email to a friend.
Make sure the meaning is right. "Consequently" needs a real cause before it, and "in contrast" needs a real difference. A connector that doesn't match the logic confuses the reader.
Simple is fine. "So", "but", "also" and "because" are correct in formal writing too. Use a longer phrase when it says something more precise.

Practise

Vocabulary flashcards and quizzes: review these phrases until they come to mind without effort.
Writing Task 1 practice: write a formal email using one opening line, one request phrase and one closing line from this page.
Writing Task 2 practice: write a survey response that uses one phrase each for giving reasons, contrasting and concluding.

vocabulary

Formal Phrases for CELPIP Writing

The Celpip Plus team

Written and reviewed against the official CELPIP scoring criteria

Updated October 4, 202614 min read

When to use formal phrases in CELPIP Writing

Giving reasons

Use these to explain why you are writing, why something happened, or why you hold a view.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
due to unforeseen circumstances	gives a reason for a change you could not predict, without private details	Due to unforeseen circumstances, I will be unable to attend Saturday's volunteer shift.
in light of	because of a new fact; also "in light of recent changes" or "in light of rising costs"	In light of the recent rent increase, I would like to discuss signing a longer lease.
this is largely due to	names the main cause of something you have just described	Parking near our building has become very difficult. This is largely due to the two new condo towers on Elm Street.
as a precautionary measure	explains an action taken to prevent a problem	As a precautionary measure, I have cancelled my credit card and asked for a new one.
in the interest of	names the principle behind a request, as in "in the interest of fairness"	In the interest of fairness, I suggest that overtime shifts be shared equally among staff.
it is widely acknowledged that	introduces a view most people accept; also "it is generally accepted that"	It is widely acknowledged that parks and green spaces improve residents' quality of life.
it could be argued that	introduces a claim carefully; also "it is often argued that"	It could be argued that a four-day week would make staff more focused.
research suggests that	refers to general evidence; also "evidence indicates that"	Research suggests that short breaks help people concentrate, so a longer lunch could benefit everyone.
a growing body of evidence suggests	more and more studies point the same way; also "a growing body of research"	A growing body of evidence suggests that children who read for pleasure do better at school.
there is a strong case for	says there are good reasons to support something; also "a compelling case can be made for"	There is a strong case for keeping the library open on Sunday afternoons.

Adding a point

Use these to move from one reason to the next. One per paragraph is usually enough.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
furthermore / moreover	adds a second, often stronger point	Furthermore, the new playground would give young families a safe place to meet.
in addition	adds another point; a little more neutral than "furthermore"	In addition, a weekly farmers' market would bring customers to local shops.
another key factor is	introduces another important reason	Another key factor is cost, since Option B would be about half as expensive.
it is worth noting that	adds a useful fact the reader might miss	It is worth noting that the current shuttle stops running at 6 p.m.
in terms of	focuses on one aspect, such as cost, time or safety	In terms of cost, Option A is the more realistic choice.
this raises the question of	adds a related issue the reader should think about	This raises the question of who will look after the garden after the first year.
this raises concerns about	adds a worry; also "there is growing concern about"	The city plans to remove the crosswalk near the school. This raises concerns about the safety of children.

Contrasting

Use these to show the other side, answer an objection, or limit a claim so it doesn't sound too strong.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
on the other hand	introduces the opposite side of an argument	On the other hand, a staff gym would mainly benefit people who already exercise.
in contrast	shows a clear difference between two things	Option A would help a few hundred residents. In contrast, Option B would serve the whole city.
some would argue that	presents the opposing view fairly before you answer it	Some would argue that a pool costs too much to maintain. However, it would be used all year.
this is not to say that	stops your point from sounding too strong	This is not to say that the current schedule has no benefits.
to a certain extent	partly, but not completely	To a certain extent, I agree that parking fees discourage visitors.
in principle	true as an idea, even if it is harder in practice	In principle, I support a car-free downtown, but this is not the right time.
despite	shows a contrast; followed by a noun or an -ing form, never "despite of"	Despite the convenience of online ordering, many seniors in our area still prefer to shop in person.
is not without its drawbacks	admits that a plan has disadvantages; also "a notable drawback is"	Option A is not without its drawbacks, since construction would close the park for a whole summer.
a double-edged sword	something with both clear benefits and clear risks	Working from home is a double-edged sword: it saves commuting time, but it can feel isolating.

Giving examples

Use these to bring in a specific case, a number or a change you have noticed. Examples make a survey response convincing.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
for instance	introduces one specific example	For instance, my daughter's swimming class was cancelled three times last month.
a case in point is	introduces an example that proves your point	A case in point is the community garden on Oak Avenue, which now has a waiting list.
as illustrated by	points to an example that shows your claim; also "this is best illustrated by"	Demand for evening classes is high, as illustrated by the forty people on last term's waiting list.
a significant number of	a large but not exact amount; also "a considerable proportion of"	A significant number of tenants have complained about the noise from the parking garage.
a marked increase / decrease in	a clear, noticeable change	Since the speed bumps were installed, there has been a marked decrease in speeding on our street.

Cause and effect

Use these to connect a problem to its results, or a proposal to its benefits.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
as a result of	because of; also "as a direct consequence of"	As a result of the bridge closure, my commute now takes an extra forty minutes.
consequently	as a result, joining two sentences; also "as a consequence"	The elevator has been broken for two weeks. Consequently, some older residents cannot leave their apartments.
this has resulted in	describes an effect that has already happened	The heating has not worked since Monday. This has resulted in several tenants buying space heaters.
this can lead to	describes a likely effect	Staff often work ten hours without a break. This can lead to mistakes and injuries.
this trend can be attributed to	names the cause of a pattern	More young families are leaving the downtown core. This trend can be attributed to high rents.
plays a significant role in	is an important influence on; also "plays a crucial role in" or "plays a pivotal role in"	A reliable bus service plays a significant role in whether people choose to drive.
this has significant implications for	warns that something will have important effects on a group	Closing the clinic on weekends has significant implications for working parents.
this suggests that	draws a conclusion from facts	The new class filled up in one day. This suggests that there is strong demand for evening programs.
in the long run	describes effects over many years	Insulating the building would cost more now, but it would save money in the long run.
with this in mind	connects your next point to what you have just said	With this in mind, I would suggest moving the monthly meeting to the evening.

Making a request politely

Use these in Writing Task 1 to open an email, ask for something, complain politely and close. Pick one opening line and one closing line; don't use several of each.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
I am writing to request	states your request in the first line	I am writing to request a refund for the yoga class that was cancelled on May 12.
I am writing to inform you that	states news or information in the first line	I am writing to inform you that I will be moving out at the end of June.
I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with	opens a complaint politely	I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with the repairs done on my car last week.
I would like to bring to your attention	raises a problem politely; also "draw your attention to"	I would like to bring to your attention a broken light in the underground parking.
it has come to my attention that	introduces a problem you have discovered	It has come to my attention that the fire exit on the third floor is blocked by boxes.
I regret to inform you that	gives bad news politely	I regret to inform you that I can no longer coach the Saturday soccer team.
I would be grateful if you could	a polite, formal request; also "I would appreciate it if you could"	I would be grateful if you could send me a copy of my lease.
in response to	opens a reply to a letter, notice or ad	In response to your notice about the parking lot repairs, I would like to ask where tenants should park.
at your earliest convenience	as soon as you can, said politely	Please let me know at your earliest convenience whether Tuesday works for you.
with regard to	introduces the subject; also "with respect to" (not "with regards to")	With regard to the parking permit, I have attached proof of my new address.
in accordance with	following a rule or agreement	In accordance with the terms of my lease, I am giving two months' notice.
fall short of expectations	says politely that something was disappointing	Unfortunately, the catering for our office party fell short of expectations.
take the necessary steps	do what is needed to fix or prevent a problem	I trust you will take the necessary steps to prevent this from happening again.
should the issue persist	says what you will do if nothing changes	Should the issue persist, I will contact the city's bylaw office.
I would appreciate your understanding	asks the reader to accept a difficulty	I would appreciate your understanding while I recover from surgery.
I will keep you informed of any developments	promises updates	I will keep you informed of any developments regarding the insurance claim.
I would be grateful for your prompt attention	a closing that asks for quick action; also "I hope this matter will be addressed promptly"	I would be grateful for your prompt attention to this matter, as the leak is getting worse.
I look forward to your response	a polite last line before the sign-off; also "should you require further information, please contact me"	Thank you for your time, and I look forward to your response.

Concluding and recommending

Use these in the last paragraph of a survey response, or when you tell the reader what should happen next.

Phrase	Meaning or use	Example sentence
in conclusion	introduces the final paragraph; also "to summarize" or "overall"	In conclusion, Option B would serve more residents for less money.
on balance	after weighing both sides	On balance, I believe longer library hours would be the better investment.
on the whole	generally, looking at everything together	On the whole, the new recycling program has worked well in our building.
all things considered	gives your final judgment after considering everything; also "taking everything into account"	All things considered, I would choose the community garden over the parking lot.
for the reasons outlined above	points back to the reasons you gave; also "for the aforementioned reasons" or "in light of the above"	For the reasons outlined above, I strongly support Option A.
ultimately	introduces the most important point at the end	Ultimately, the safety of children should come first.
it is essential that	says that something must happen; also "it is imperative that"	It is essential that the repairs be finished before winter.
take into consideration	asks the reader to think about something before deciding	I hope the committee will take residents' work schedules into consideration.
strike a balance between	find a fair middle point between two needs	The city needs to strike a balance between new housing and green space.
a viable solution	a realistic fix that can actually work	A shuttle bus from the train station would be a viable solution.
a step in the right direction	an improvement, though not a complete solution	Adding one more evening class would be a step in the right direction.

Use them naturally

These phrases help only when they fit what you are saying. A few habits keep them natural:

Don't stack them. "Furthermore, in addition, it is worth noting that..." says "and" three times. One connector at the start of a point is enough.
Don't start every sentence with one. Most sentences in a good email or survey response begin with their subject. Save the connectors for moving between points.
Match the reader. "I would be grateful if you could" suits an email to a landlord; "Could you..." suits an email to a friend.
Make sure the meaning is right. "Consequently" needs a real cause before it, and "in contrast" needs a real difference. A connector that doesn't match the logic confuses the reader.
Simple is fine. "So", "but", "also" and "because" are correct in formal writing too. Use a longer phrase when it says something more precise.

Practise

Vocabulary flashcards and quizzes: review these phrases until they come to mind without effort.
Writing Task 1 practice: write a formal email using one opening line, one request phrase and one closing line from this page.
Writing Task 2 practice: write a survey response that uses one phrase each for giving reasons, contrasting and concluding.