OET: Plain English or Scientific Vocabulary


OET is a test of English. But, it is certainly not the test of medical English. There are many candidates who are confused as to what to use - common English words or scientific vocabulary? 

Check out these words 

Given below are the anatomical terms and their common versions. 

Abdomen - tummy or stomach 
Cubitus - elbow 
Carpus - wrist
Patella - kneecap 
Axilla - armpit 
Coxa - hip 

OET writing sub-test 

As a medical professional, you are encouraged to make use of the scientific vocabulary, medical terms (but, only during situations that demand the use of it). Especially, when you interact with the other medical professionals in your circle, at the workplace, it is recommended that you should convey the information using medical English. 

OET writing sub-test will assess how good you are at conveying information to your peers, other professionals in the medical field. To be good at writing, or to be good at conveying the message properly, you need to have the right set of words. Here, common English vocabulary and scientific vocabulary play a very important role. In fact, you are encouraged to make use of the medical English in the OET writing sub-test. That makes sense too. Because, medical terms will make the task simple. You will not have to explain things in detail as medical terminology can perfectly convey your message. 

OET speaking sub-test 

But, when it comes to talking to patients, you are expected to make use of the common English. Therefore, in the OET speaking sub-test, you need to make use of plain English. The interviewer will act as your client or the patient, and look forward to a conversation with you that is more understandable. You need to explain things in a simple way. Do not assume that the patient or the client (here interviewer) knows the medical terms and that it will be a chance for you to make a good impression with your good, scientific vocabulary. 

Most of the candidates complain of getting a low score in OET speaking sub-test. Although they are good speakers, they do not manage to score well. Nine times out of ten, the reason lies in making use of difficult-to-understand or uncommon scientific words. Of course, in real life situations, at your workplace, you will not use medical English when you interact with the patients or the clients. So, remember, OET speaking sub-test assesses how well you can speak in real-life situations. And that is the reason why you have the role-plays. So, use plain or common English while taking OET speaking sub-test. 

Enroll for the OET course online. Prepare for the OET by registering at OETpractice.net. 

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