It Would Be Appreciated Vs It Would Be Greatly Appreciated

It Would Be Appreciated Vs It Would Be Greatly Appreciated

In the OET Writing sub-test, you will receive case notes and a writing task. Your objective is to extract relevant details, organize them logically, and compose a well-structured letter in your own words. The writing task is often a referral letter, a vital form of communication between healthcare professionals. Since these letters serve as professional correspondence, they must be clear, concise, and appropriately formal.

A key aspect of effective writing in the OET exam is using standard English phrases and expressions naturally. Understanding how to use commonly used phrases correctly enhances your fluency and makes your writing more professional. One such phrase often used in OET letters is “it would be greatly appreciated.”

While this phrase is grammatically correct and widely accepted, there is an ongoing discussion about whether the word “greatly” is always necessary. Some argue that “it would be appreciated” is just as effective in many cases. This article explores the difference between these two phrases and provides guidance on when to use each appropriately.

Understanding the Difference

Both “it would be appreciated” and “it would be greatly appreciated” convey a sense of gratitude and respect in professional communication. However, they carry slightly different nuances in meaning.

1. “It would be appreciated” – This phrase expresses general appreciation. It is polite but neutral and does not emphasize urgency or extra effort.
2. “It would be greatly appreciated” – The addition of “greatly” intensifies the appreciation. This phrase is typically used when requesting extra effort, urgent action, or special attention beyond what is usually expected.

Though both are correct, overusing “greatly appreciated” can make a letter sound overly formal or repetitive. Using the phrase selectively strengthens its impact and prevents redundancy.

When to Use Each Phrase

To understand the appropriate usage, consider these examples in the context of OET letter writing:

Example 1: Standard Request
“It would be appreciated if you could monitor his condition.”

• This is appropriate when requesting routine care, such as monitoring a patient’s vitals or ensuring follow-up appointments.
• Since this falls within the expected responsibilities of a healthcare provider, “greatly” is unnecessary.

Example 2: Special Request for Extra Care
“It would be greatly appreciated if you could closely monitor his condition and provide updates on any changes.”

• In this case, the request requires extra attention and effort from the recipient.
• The word “greatly” emphasizes the importance of this request.

Example 3: Expressing Gratitude for Additional Support
“Your assistance with this matter would be greatly appreciated.”

• This works well when requesting urgent action, prioritization, or assistance beyond normal duties.

Example 4: A More Direct Alternative
“Please monitor his condition and inform me of any changes. Thank you.”

• If the request is straightforward, a direct instruction followed by a simple “thank you” may be more effective than using either phrase.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overusing “greatly appreciated” – If every request in your letter includes this phrase, it can lose its impact. Reserve it for situations where extra effort or urgency is required.
• Using it in the wrong context – If the request is a routine task, adding “greatly” might sound excessive or unnatural. Consider whether the request truly requires additional emphasis.
• Forgetting clarity and professionalism – While polite language is important, clarity is key. Overly complex or formal phrases should not make the letter difficult to read.

How to Improve Your OET Writing

To use these phrases effectively, consider the following tips:

1. Understand the Context – Before choosing a phrase, ask yourself: Does this request require extra effort or is it a routine task? This will help you determine whether to use “greatly.”
2. Use a Variety of Expressions – Instead of overusing “it would be greatly appreciated,” try alternative phrases like:
   • “I would be grateful if…”
   • “Your assistance with this would be highly valued.”
   • “Please ensure this is done at your earliest convenience.”
3. Practice Writing Different Scenarios – Writing sample OET letters and revising them can help you develop a natural writing style.
4. Read Sample Letters – Studying well-written referral letters will help you identify effective ways to phrase requests.

Both “it would be appreciated” and “it would be greatly appreciated” are correct and useful phrases in OET letter writing. However, the key to effective communication lies in choosing the appropriate phrase based on context.

Use “it would be appreciated” for routine requests and “it would be greatly appreciated” when requesting extra effort or urgent action. Mastering these distinctions will help refine your writing, ensuring clarity, professionalism, and confidence in your OET exam.

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