IELTS Band 9 Essay About success is often measured by wealth and material belonging

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Success is often measured by wealth and material belonging”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.

IELTS Writing Task 2 (Band 9 Sample Answer)

Success is often measured by wealth and material belonging.

Do you think wealth is the best measure of success?

What are the qualities of successful persons?

Success is often perceived through the lens of wealth and material belongings, but this view is inherently subjective and fails to encapsulate the multifaceted nature of achievement. While financial stability and possessions provide tangible evidence of success, they are not the only, or even the most important, measures of it.

Wealth is an undeniable factor that enhances life by offering access to quality education, healthcare, and leisure opportunities. However, equating it solely with success oversimplifies the concept. Success is profoundly individualistic and depends on personal aspirations. For instance, a scientist who dedicates their life to groundbreaking research might find fulfillment in intellectual contributions rather than monetary gain, whereas an artist may prioritize creative expression over financial stability.

The qualities of truly successful individuals extend far beyond material wealth. Perseverance, adaptability, and emotional intelligence are key traits that foster long-term success. Perseverance allows individuals to overcome challenges and persist toward their goals, while adaptability ensures they can thrive in changing circumstances. Emotional intelligence, encompassing empathy and effective communication, enables strong interpersonal relationships and professional growth.

Moreover, success can be measured by one’s contribution to society and personal happiness. A teacher inspiring students or a volunteer helping those in need demonstrates a form of success rooted in altruism. Similarly, achieving a work-life balance, nurturing meaningful relationships, or pursuing a passion can define success for others.

In conclusion, while wealth provides certain advantages, it is not the definitive measure of success. True success is characterized by personal growth, societal impact, and fulfillment, which are achieved through qualities like perseverance, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. By broadening our understanding of success, we can celebrate diverse achievements and foster a more inclusive perspective on what it means to be truly successful.

Academic Vocabulary in the sample of success is often measured by wealth and material belonging

1. Perceived (pər-SEEVD)
   • Sentence: The value of art is often perceived differently by various individuals.
2. Belongings (bə-LAWNG-ingz)
   • Sentence: She packed her belongings carefully before relocating to a new city.
3. Subjective (səb-JEK-tiv)
   • Sentence: Beauty is often considered a subjective concept that varies across cultures.
4. Multifaceted (muhl-tee-FAS-i-tid)
   • Sentence: The issue of climate change requires a multifaceted approach to address its complexity.
5. Undeniable (uhn-di-NY-uh-buhl)
   • Sentence: The influence of technology on modern society is undeniable and far-reaching.

Advanced Grammar Structures

1. Complex Sentences
   • Example: “While financial stability and possessions provide tangible evidence of success, they are not the only, or even the most important, measures of it.”
     This demonstrates a nuanced argument by connecting dependent and independent clauses effectively.
2. Relative Clauses
   • Example: “A scientist who dedicates their life to groundbreaking research might find fulfillment in intellectual contributions rather than monetary gain.”
     Using relative clauses adds depth and specificity to the argument.
3. Parallel Structures
   • Example: “Achieving a work-life balance, nurturing meaningful relationships, or pursuing a passion can define success for others.”
     The parallel structure enhances clarity and rhythm in listing ideas.
4. Passive Voice
   • Example: “Success is often perceived through the lens of wealth and material belongings.”
     Passive voice is used to emphasize the subject (success) rather than the actor.
5. Nominalization
   • Example: “The qualities of truly successful individuals extend far beyond material wealth.”
     Nominalization (e.g., “qualities”) helps convey an academic tone and focus on abstract ideas.

These advanced structures enhance coherence, precision, and formality, which are essential for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2.

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