Task 2 描述「一個系統，透過這個系統……」、「一個機制，藉由它……」時，考生會寫 a system in which by means of which——又長又繞口。學術升級：whereby，一個字搞定。

字義

Whereby (adv./conj.) — by which; through which; by means of which. Used to introduce a clause describing the mechanism, process, or arrangement by which something happens.

字面是 where + by——「在哪藉著」。引導機制、流程、安排的關係子句。

5 個 Band 7+ 例句

  1. The university operates a system whereby tuition fees are linked to family income.
  2. Photosynthesis is the process whereby plants convert sunlight into chemical energy.
  3. The treaty established a framework whereby disputes could be resolved peacefully.
  4. Many companies have introduced flexible schemes whereby staff can work from home up to three days a week.
  5. We need a model whereby creativity is rewarded as much as productivity.

常見錯誤

搭配記住四組：a system whereby / a process whereby / a mechanism whereby / an arrangement whereby——這四個是 IELTS 主場。

句型注意：whereby 後面接完整子句（有主詞 + 動詞）——別接動名詞或名詞。

  • A system whereby students can apply online. ✓
  • A system whereby applying online. ✗

Register 偏書面：Speaking 用 whereby 略嚴肅；Task 2 與 Part 3 機制描述才上場。

過度使用：一篇 Task 2 用一次最有效——太多會像在寫法律條文。

同等級替換（Band 7+）

  • Through which — The process through which decisions are made should be transparent.（更中性）
  • By which — The means by which goals are achieved often matter more than the goals themselves.（更正式）

試試看

下次 Task 2 描述政策機制，把 a system in which 換成 a system whereby——一個字立刻 Band 7+，又少寫兩個音節。

延伸閱讀：