Describe something useful you borrowed from another person
Part 2: Cue Card Practice
Describe something useful you borrowed from another person
You should say:
- What it was
- When it was
- Why you borrowed it
- And explain how you felt about borrowing it
Band 9 Sample Answer
One useful thing that I borrowed from someone was a laptop from my cousin about two years ago. At that time, my own computer had suddenly stopped working right in the middle of my university semester, and I desperately needed a reliable device to complete my assignments and prepare presentations. Without it, I would have faced enormous difficulties meeting deadlines.
I remember calling my cousin to explain the situation, and he immediately offered to lend me his laptop for a few weeks. It was a high-performance device, much better than the one I used to own. Not only was it faster, but it also had a better keyboard and an updated operating system, which made my academic work smoother and more efficient. I still recall how relieved I felt when he handed it over to me; it was almost like a burden had been lifted off my shoulders.
During the time I had it, I used it practically every day. I completed essays, worked on PowerPoint slides, attended online lectures, and even did some light research for my part-time job. I also used it for personal activities like video calls with friends and family, which was especially important because that period coincided with the COVID-19 lockdowns. Having access to the laptop gave me a sense of normalcy when the world outside felt quite uncertain.
What made this borrowing experience even more memorable was my cousin’s generosity. He trusted me with something valuable without hesitation, and he didn’t impose any strict conditions about when or how I should return it. His kindness reminded me of the importance of helping others selflessly, especially in times of need.
Looking back, this simple act of lending a laptop turned out to be extremely meaningful for me. It not only helped me avoid academic setbacks but also taught me a valuable lesson about gratitude and trust. I realized how small gestures of support can make a huge difference in someone’s life.
To sum up, the laptop I borrowed from my cousin was one of the most useful things I have ever been given temporary access to. It solved a very practical problem, strengthened our bond, and left me with a lasting appreciation for generosity and reliability in relationships.
Vocabulary / Phrases Explained
- Reliable device – a gadget you can depend on without problems.
- Enormous difficulties – very big problems or challenges.
- Meeting deadlines – finishing tasks within the required time.
- High-performance device – a powerful computer with fast speed and good features.
- Operating system – the main software that controls a computer.
- A burden lifted off my shoulders – relief from stress or responsibility.
- Coincided with – happened at the same time as.
- Sense of normalcy – a feeling of life being ordinary and stable.
- Without hesitation – immediately and willingly.
- Impose conditions – set strict rules or requirements.
- Academic setbacks – delays or problems in one’s studies.
- Gestures of support – small but meaningful acts of kindness.
- Lasting appreciation – a deep respect or gratitude that continues over time.
- Generosity and reliability – kindness and trustworthiness.