Describe a Time when you Were Cheated- IELTS Cue Card

Sample Answer

People often face situations where they are taken advantage of. During such circumstances, one often feels dejected and regretful. Unfortunately, many people in the world try to prey on the innocence and simplicity of others. Not long ago, I was also in a similar predicament, where my lack of knowledge and straightforward nature was used against me by someone for illicit gains. It happened to me when I went on a solo vacation to Darjeeling and could not find proper transportation from the central part of the city to the hotel where I was staying.

I was searching for hours for a bus or any other form of public transportation. However, since it was late at night, all the public transportation services were terminated for the day. Finally, after an excruciating search for several hours, I came across a car driver who had his vehicle parked by the road. The vehicle’s looks suggest that it was a carpool for daily passengers. I approached the driver and told him about my plight and he agreed to give me a ride till a certain point from where I could walk to my hotel. However, the price he quoted was extortionate at face value and I asked him to consider my situation and offer a discount.

He then proceeded to convince me that such a rate was quite reasonable, especially after hours. I did not try to negotiate anymore as I was already quite exhausted. After I reached my destination that night, I asked the receptionist about the late-night fares to double-check the claims of that driver. That’s when I came to know that the driver had charged me three times the typical carpool fare for that time of day. I felt morose at being taken advantage of and then proceeded to go to my hotel room. After that incident, I always made sure to ask more than one person before buying a product or availing of a service.

Vocabulary

• Dejected

Meaning: sad and depressed; dispirited.
Eg.: The first runner-up was dejected as he lost the tournament by a thin margin.

• Transgressions

Meaning: an act that goes against a law, rule, or code of conduct; an offence.
Eg.: The convict was given a life sentence for all his transgressions.

• Illicit

Meaning: forbidden by law, rules, or custom.
Eg.: Illicit gains are always temporary and lead to serious consequences.

• Excruciating

Meaning: intensely painful.
Eg.: Waiting for the COVID-19 lockdown to be over was excruciating.

• Extortionate

Meaning: (of a price) much too high; exorbitant.
Eg.: Miami is infamous for its extortionate prices.

Part 3 – Follow up Questions

• What is the definition of cheating?

The definition of cheating can be complex and dependent on the situation or context being discussed. However, in simple terms, when an individual acts in a fraudulent manner to gain an advantage over others, it is called cheating. People are known to cheat in various aspects of life. The most common area where people cheat is during examinations.

• Have you ever cheated?

I regret to say this, but yes, I had cheated when I was in school. Although it was not a frequent occurrence for me, there was an instance where I resorted to unfair means during my half-yearly examinations. During my Mathematics exam, I was unable to answer a particularly tough question. Desperate for help, I turned to my friend sitting next to me for the answer. Later on, I realized that the answer he provided was also incorrect and I ended up learning a cutting yet valuable lesson.

• Do you feel everyone cheats in relationships?

Infidelity is more common in relationships now than ever before. That being said, it is not a universal issue. Some individuals believe that loyalty and faithfulness are pillars of a relationship. Such individuals unquestionably lead healthier and happier lives than those on the other side of the spectrum.

• Do you think if people stopped cheating the world would be a better place?

Yes, I most certainly support the fact that if people stopped cheating, there would be far fewer hardships around the world. It is our duty as human beings to understand the plight of others. We must be compassionate towards those who are less fortunate instead of trying to take advantage of such people for selfish gains. If every individual worked towards being principled and trustworthy, the world would be a better place.

Vocabulary

• Fraudulent

Meaning: unjustifiably claiming or being credited with particular accomplishments or qualities.

Eg.: Christopher was rejected by every company for his fraudulent activities in the past.

• Cutting

Meaning:  causing emotional pain; hurtful.
Eg.: The teacher’s comments were cutting and it hurt the emotions of the class. 

• Infidelity

Meaning: the action or state of being unfaithful to a spouse or partner.
Eg.: Infidelity was a major reason for the end of their marriage.

• Plight

Meaning: a dangerous, difficult, or otherwise unfortunate situation.
Eg.: The plight of the refugees stuck in Ukraine is quite tragic.

• Principled

Meaning: (of a person or their behaviour) acting in accordance with morality and showing recognition of right and wrong.
Eg.: Our grandfather was well-known in the local community for being just and principled.