IELTS Speaking

41. Describe a time when you received money as a gift.

You should say:

When did you receive it? 

What did you do with it? 

How did you feel about it?

Sample Answer 1

A memorable time when I received money as a gift was on my birthday a few years ago. Friends and family had gathered to celebrate, and among the various presents, one envelope stood out – it contained a generous amount of cash.

I received the envelope during a small gathering at my favorite café. As I opened it and saw the bills inside, I was genuinely surprised and grateful. The gesture made me feel valued and appreciated by those who knew me. The money wasn't just a material gift; it represented their thoughtfulness and the desire to give me something that I could use in a way that suited my preferences and needs.

With the money, I decided to treat myself to an experience I had been wanting for a while. I had been dreaming of attending a photography workshop to improve my skills, and the gifted funds allowed me to enroll in the workshop without worrying about the cost. It was a fulfilling and enriching experience that helped me develop my passion for photography even further.

The money also gave me a sense of freedom – the freedom to choose how I wanted to use it. It was a pleasant surprise and a reminder of the meaningful connections I had with my friends and family. Overall, receiving money as a gift on that occasion brought me happiness, a sense of gratitude, and the opportunity to invest in my personal growth and interests.

Sample Answer 2

Several years ago, on a bright summer afternoon, I found myself celebrating a milestone achievement with friends and family at a joyful gathering. It was a day filled with laughter, music, and heartfelt conversations. As the festivities were winding down, I was presented with a beautifully wrapped gift box from my loved ones.

With a sense of excitement, I carefully unwrapped the box to reveal an elegant envelope nestled inside. Intrigued by its contents, I opened the envelope to find a heartfelt note and a significant sum of money. The note expressed congratulations and warm wishes for my accomplishment, along with a hope that the money could be put to good use.

Receiving this unexpected gift of money was truly touching. While the monetary value was certainly appreciated, what made the gesture even more meaningful was the thought and consideration behind it. It was evident that my friends and family had taken the time to choose a gift that would not only celebrate my achievement but also provide me with the flexibility to use the money in a way that resonated with my personal goals and aspirations.

As I held the gift in my hands, I felt a mix of emotions – gratitude for the generosity of my loved ones, a sense of pride for the accomplishment that had prompted this celebration, and a deep appreciation for the meaningful connections that had been strengthened through this gesture.

In the weeks that followed, I deliberated on how to best use the gifted money. After careful consideration, I decided to invest a portion of it in furthering my education by enrolling in a course that had always intrigued me. The remaining funds were set aside for a future travel adventure, allowing me to experience new cultures and expand my horizons.

This experience served as a poignant reminder of the impact that thoughtful gestures can have on our lives. The gift of money wasn't just a financial contribution; it was a symbol of support, encouragement, and a shared sense of joy in celebrating life's milestones together.