Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected

Last Updated on October 29, 2025

A cue card for the question “Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected” can be found in this IELTS speaking blog. The IELTS Exam speaking test is divided into three parts — the introduction, the cue card round, and the follow-up discussion round. You will have 11 to 15 minutes to demonstrate your fluency, coherence, and vocabulary in front of the examiner.

We’ve included three model answers for this IELTS Speaking Cue Card, along with follow-up questions, a related vocabulary table, and a short conclusion to help you prepare effectively for similar IELTS Cue Card topics.

IELTS Speaking Part 2 – IELTS Cue Card

In IELTS Speaking Task 2 (Part 2), the examiner gives you a cue card with a topic and prompts. You’ll have 1 minute to prepare and then speak for 1–2 minutes.

The topic here is “Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected.” This is one of the most relatable IELTS Cue cards, as it allows you to talk about money, decision-making, and emotions — all while showcasing descriptive language for the IELTS Exam.

Cue Card Topic Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected

You should say:

• What it is?
• How much you spent on it?
• Why you bought it?
• And explain why you think you spent more than expected?

Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected – Model Answers

Here are three model answers for this IELTS Speaking Cue Card, each written to reflect a natural, fluent style ideal for high-scoring responses in the IELTS Exam.

Model Answer 1 – Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected

Introduction

Among the things I incurred a higher cost than I anticipated was my laptop which I purchased two years ago to use in my internet based studies.

What it is and how much you spent

I was going to first purchase a mid-range laptop of about ₹50,000 but after reading the specifications of the laptops, I bought a high-end laptop- 80,000.

Why you bought it

Taking the fact that, I did most of my job using content writing and design, I required a device that was capable of supporting heavy applications and multitasking. The salesperson persuaded me to spend extra money on superior features which would save me the pain in the long-term.

Why you have spent more than you had expected.

The quality and speed were worth the price although it was expensive. I understood that it is better to pay higher prices to receive high performance and long life.

Conclusion

That purchase made me realize the necessity of quality over price hence this makes it a good example when responding to the IELTS Speaking Cue Card that requires you to describe an item that you have spent a lot more than you thought.

Model Answer 2 – Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected

Introduction

One thing that I ended up paying more than I had anticipated is my smartphone.

What it is and  how much you spent

I had set my budget at about 25000 on a new phone but I found myself spending 40000 after getting impressed by Samsung flagship model.

Why you bought it

I was in need of a new phone to use in work and photography and the phone I purchased had amazing camera and storage space. The smooth body and the speedy processor were also too good to be neglected.

Why you have spent more than you had expected.

Initially, I was guilty of spending such a lot of money but subsequently, I learned that it was worth each and every penny since it has lasted way longer than other less expensive models.

Conclusion

This experience helped me to understand that occasionally the additional money might be worthwhile and bring comfort and trustworthiness a good example of such an IELTS Cue Card topic as you can write about an item that you have spent more than you expected.

Model Answer 3 – Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected

Introduction

The product that I bought at a higher expense than what I wanted was a pair of running shoes.

What it is and  how much you spent

I started out intending to purchase cheap running shoes at around 3,000 rupees but I decided to get a high quality Nike at 8,000 rupees.

Why you bought it

I was already running every day, and my friend suggested that I buy quality shoes to prevent my injuries. Having tried them on, I could not resist them as they were so comfortable and easy to carry.

Why you have spent more than you had expected.

Although the cost was twice my budget, I saw that the comfort and the longevity made it a worthy investment. Even after two years, they are in good condition.

Conclusion

The said shopping experience gave me a better awareness of value rather than price, which is why it is such a perfect answer to the IELTS Speaking Cue Card describe an item on which you spent more than expected.

IELTS Speaking Part 3 – Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected Follow-up Questions

Here are some common follow-up questions for “Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected” asked in IELTS Speaking Part 3 to test your opinions and reasoning.

Do you tend to purchase high-priced products?

Not really. I am more inclined to spend prudently and purchase expensive items when there is a need to do it.

What is the reason why sometimes people spend more than they intend to?

Their purchases are affected by the emotions, advertising or peer pressure.

Would you consider that costly products are necessarily more superior than low-priced ones?

Not always. Brand names make products more expensive, but the quality does not always justify the money paid.

Do commercials have an impact on your purchases?

Yes, definitely. Beautiful advertisements may tend to make individuals have the feeling that they require something even when nothing is required.

What are the common things that people tend to spend more on?

Individuals are likely to spend a lot in the purchase of electronic items, fashion and lifestyle items such as phones, clothes or gadgets.

Read more: Describe A Person Who Impressed You In Primary School

Related Vocabulary -Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected

Word/Phrase	Meaning	Example Sentence
Impulsive buying	Purchasing something without planning	I sometimes fall into impulsive buying when I see discounts.
Worth every penny	Completely worth the money spent	My laptop was expensive but worth every penny.
Overpriced	Costing more than it should	Some branded items are really overpriced.
Budget-friendly	Affordable or within one’s budget	I always look for budget-friendly options.
Splurge	Spend a lot of money on something luxurious	I decided to splurge on a designer watch.
Investment	Something that gives long-term value	Buying a high-quality phone was a good investment.
Tempting	Attractive or hard to resist	The new features of the phone were too tempting.
Quality assurance	Confidence about a product’s durability	The brand provides quality assurance for all their products.

Conclusion

Preparing for the IELTS Speaking Cue Card “Describe an Item on Which You Spent More Than Expected” helps you use real-life examples while demonstrating descriptive language and fluency. Such IELTS Cue Card topics are popular in the IELTS Exam, testing your ability to express emotions, reasoning, and decision-making naturally.

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