B1 • Lesson 29
Vocabulary and reading to prepare for your lesson
Click each word to see its meaning and an example.
To express or state something again in a different way.
"Let me reformulate what I said earlier in simpler language."
In the most basic or fundamental way; at its core.
"Basically, we're trying to solve the same problem from a different angle."
To communicate or express an idea or feeling.
"I want to convey how important this issue is to our community."
A word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word.
"The words 'happy' and 'joyful' are synonyms."
To replace something with something else.
"You can substitute the difficult word with a simpler one that means the same thing."
The most important or central point of something.
"The essence of his argument is that we need to invest more in education."
Used to express an idea using easier vocabulary.
"In simpler terms, we're asking for more resources to do our job better."
Used to state the fundamental point of your argument.
"Essentially, what I'm saying is that we should prioritize this over everything else."
Used to express the same idea using different words.
"To put it another way, the solution must be both practical and affordable."
Used to emphasize the main message you're communicating.
"What I'm trying to convey is that everyone's input is valuable."
Used to say the same thing in a different way.
"Let me rephrase that: we need to change our approach completely."
Used to explain something using different language.
"In other words, we're out of time and need to make a decision now."
Reformulation is a key communication skill that involves expressing the same idea using different words. This technique is useful when listeners seem confused, when you want to emphasize a point, or when you think your original phrasing wasn't clear. Good speakers use reformulation frequently to ensure their audience truly understands them.
There are several reasons why reformulation is valuable. First, different people understand language differently. Some people prefer technical language while others want simple, direct explanations. By reformulating your ideas, you can reach a wider audience. Second, repeating the same idea in a different way helps it stick in people's memories. When you hear something expressed two ways, you're more likely to remember it.
When reformulating, keep the core meaning while changing the words. For example, if you say "We need to optimize resource allocation," you could reformulate this as "We should use our money and materials more effectively." Both sentences convey the same idea, but the second is simpler and more direct.
Effective reformulation often involves simplifying complex ideas without losing important details. You might replace technical terms with everyday language, break a long sentence into shorter ones, or use an example to clarify an abstract concept. The goal is always to convey your essential message more clearly.
Practice reformulating in your daily conversations. This skill will help you become a more effective communicator in all contexts, from casual discussions to formal presentations.
~300 words • B1 Level
Think about these questions before your lesson. You don't need to write answers—just consider your thoughts.
For each question above, write maximum 3 keywords — no sentences. Then practise speaking your answer out loud from just the keywords.
Q1: "Can you think of a time when you had to explain something in a simpler way because someone didn't understand?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Now say your answer out loud. Speak for about 30 seconds from just your keywords.
Q2: "What is a complex idea you find difficult to reformulate in simple language?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Speak for 30 seconds. Let your brain build the sentences from the keywords.
Q3: "Do you prefer when people give you only one explanation, or do you like when they reformulate and explain differently?"
Your 3 keywords: / /
Say your answer out loud — don't just think it! Your keywords are enough.
Remember: keywords only. Your brain does the rest. Mistakes are good — they mean you're practising speaking, not reading.
Preparation time: ~15 minutes