Describe a Gift you Gave Someone IELTS Cue Card

In the IELTS Speaking section, one of the most common question types is the Cue Card Speaking prompt. One such prompt might ask you to "Describe a Gift you Gave Someone." This type of question requires you to formulate a thoughtful response, speaking about the gift and its significance. To approach this question effectively, it's important to narrow down the key points you need to address within the given time. 

In this blog, we have provided sample answers for "Describe a Gift you Gave Someone" IELTS Speaking Part 2 and 3 questions with relevant vocabulary. They will help you to be well-prepared to tackle this topic in your IELTS Speaking test and enhance your speaking skills!

Before you dive in, enhance your IELTS Speaking skills and fluency with the expert guide below!

Describe a Gift You Gave Someone IELTS Cue Card Question

Have a look at the IELTS cue card samples below. When preparing for any of the latest IELTS Speaking cue card topics with sample answers, focus on note-taking of key vocabulary and points, not whole sentences.

Describe a Gift You Gave Someone Sample Answer 1

One of the most thoughtful gifts I have ever given was a handmade scrapbook for my sister’s graduation.

I gave it to my younger sister, who had just completed her university studies. Since it was a special milestone in her life, I wanted to give her something meaningful rather than just a materialistic gift.

I felt excited and emotional while making it because it brought back so many beautiful memories. When I gave it to her, she was overwhelmed with joy and even teared up while flipping through the pages.

I chose this gift because it was personal and sentimental. It contained pictures, notes, and little messages from our family, capturing her journey from childhood to adulthood. I wanted her to have something to cherish forever.

Describe a Gift You Gave Someone Sample Answer 2

A memorable gift I gave was a wristwatch for my father’s birthday.

I gave it to my dad, who had been using the same old watch for years. Since he rarely bought things for himself, I decided to surprise him with a stylish yet functional watch.

I felt happy and proud when I saw his reaction. He was genuinely delighted and immediately put it on, saying it was the perfect choice.

I selected this gift because it was practical and symbolic. A watch represents time, and I wanted to express my gratitude for all the time and effort he has invested in raising me. It was my way of showing appreciation.

Describe a Gift You Gave Someone Sample Answer 3

Describe a Gift You Gave Someone IELTS Vocabulary

Here are some IELTS Vocabulary to use while answering the cue card 'Describe a Gift you Gave Someone' with examples:

Sentimental – having deep emotional value

• Meaning: Something that holds personal and emotional significance.
• Example: I chose this gift because it was sentimental, filled with memories from our childhood.

Overwhelmed – deeply affected by emotions

• Meaning: Feeling a strong emotional reaction, often joy or gratitude.
• Example: She was overwhelmed with joy when she saw the scrapbook filled with family photos.

Symbolic – representing a deeper meaning

• Meaning: Having significance beyond its physical value.
• Example: A watch is symbolic of time, and I wanted to express my gratitude for my father’s sacrifices.

Thoughtful – showing care and consideration

• Meaning: A gift or action that demonstrates kindness and personal attention.
• Example: A customized coffee mug was a thoughtful gift because it reflected my friend’s personality and interests.

Milestone – an important event or achievement

• Meaning: A significant stage in life, often a special occasion.
• Example: Graduating from university is a major milestone, so I wanted to celebrate it with a special gift.

Describe a Gift you Gave Someone IELTS Speaking Part 3 Questions

Look at the 'Describe a gift you gave someone' IELTS Speaking Part 3 questions related to the cue card and develop your own sample answers.

• What is the importance of gifts?

Gifts are a bodacious indication of knowing that the person giving the gift to you loves you and care about you. They strengthen bonds of friendships and relationships. Gifts make the recipient feel very special.

• Is there any pressure on us to buy presents?

No one is obliged or has any pressure to buy presents, but sometimes when we receive gifts of exorbitant nature, there might be a pressure to reciprocate in the same way; otherwise, it’ll feel odd.

• Do Indian people often give gifts?

It is not just about any culture or community. Almost all cultures have traditions and etiquette related to receiving and giving gifts. The custom of giving gifts is famous worldwide, even in India. However, it is seen that whenever you are invited to an Indian home, it is considered discourteous if you don’t bring a gift.

• What’s the value of giving presents?

We give people gifts to show that we are grateful to them for their role in our lives. Gifts will always be paramount when you want to build a strong relationship as they are gestures of love.

• What kinds of gifts are suitable for friends to give each other?

Friends know each other well enough to know their preferences, so a person chooses gifts according to their choice. Most of the time, people give memorable books, perfumes, clothes, books, and coffee mugs as gifts.

Describe a Gift you Gave Someone IELTS Speaking Part 3 Vocabulary

Following are the vocanulary used in the sample answers of follow-up questions for Describe a Gift you Gave Someone

• Bodacious

Meaning – excellent, admirable, or attractive.
Example – My brother is growing a bodacious beard after so many years.

• Paramount

Meaning – more important than anything else
Example – A child’s interest is of paramount importance and shouldn’t be ignored.

• Recipient

Meaning – receiver
Example – The recipient of the Noble Peace Prize felt so rejuvenated.

• Etiquette

Meaning – the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.
Example – The rules of etiquette on a dining table are complicated to follow.

• Exorbitant

Meaning – (of a price or amount charged) unreasonably high.
Example – Some hotels charge exorbitant rates for phone calls.

Overall, describing a gift you gave someone in the IELTS Speaking test for speaking part 2 and part 3 helps you showcase expressive vocabulary, improve fluency, and structure your response effectively. Adding personal experiences enhances coherence, making your answer more engaging and helping you impress the examiner to achieve an IELTS Band Score of 8+.

Related Cue Cards:

Here are some related cue cards that you can practice to improve your score: 

• Describe an event when someone denied your request
• Describe an outdoor sport you played for the first time
• Describe a party you attended before
• Describe a music concert you have seen

Important Links: 

Check out the following important links while preparing for the IELTS Speaking test:

• IELTS Speaking Criteria: What IELTS Examiners Look for in the Speaking Test?
• Recent IELTS Topics in IELTS Speaking Tests 2025
• How to Use Idioms in IELTS Speaking for a Higher Score?
• Linking words for IELTS Speaking Section
• The Best Phrases to Use in IELTS Speaking
• Recent IELTS Speaking Topics Part 2 & 3 with Model Answers