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CategoryCEFRDescriptor"Can do" statementExamples
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ADJECTIVESC1FORM: COMPOUND ADJECTIVESCan use a wide range of compound adjectives ('open-minded', 'above-mentioned', 'well-to-do', 'jaw-dropping') I would describe myself as an easy-going and open-minded person. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; Polish; Pass)

…we suggest investing a certain amount of money in the above-mentioned technical devices in order to achieve the financial target. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; German; Pass)

But as she does not live in a well-to-do family, Ola was never able to afford additional private lessons, for example. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Polish; Fail)

If anyone has ever seen it, they would agree with me that it was THE most jaw-dropping road in the world. (Netherlands; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Dutch; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC2FORM: COMBINING MULTIPLE ADJECTIVESCan combine more complex, lengthy strings of adjectives, joining the last two adjectives with 'and'. A timid, shy, self-conscious, over-sensitive and vulnerable person can yearn to make friends with someone who is very self-assured, confident, decisive, even bossy. (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1999; Polish; Pass)

In the increasingly materialistic, greedy and shallow society we live in today, it would almost seem that there are no disadvantages to being rich. (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1999; Portuguese; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC2USE: FOCUSCan use a list of adjectives in ellipted clauses before and after a noun, to give focus. ► focusImaginative, good-humoured, friendly, he was respected and liked by his peer-students. (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

The latter – fat, ugly and sick – blows his top when Ralph tells the others about the fat boy's nice name, as he wanted to keep it secret. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Greek; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC2FORM/USE: WITH 'NO' OR 'NOT ANY' Can use 'no' / 'not any' with comparative adjectives to limit the scale of comparison. ► comparative clausesThat is why we are not any happier than you were. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2005; Greek; Pass)

I will probably find the water to be no higher than my thighs. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Dutch; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC2FORM/USE: WITH 'NOT THAT MUCH'Can use 'not that much' to modify comparative adjectives to a small degree. ► comparative clausesAlthough she is not that much older than I am, one could think there were quite a few years between us. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Dutch; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC1FORM: WITH EXTREME ADVERBSCan modify gradable adjectives with extreme adverbs of degree ('absolutely', 'extremely', 'incredibly', 'totally') to intensify their meaning. I am absolutely sure that it will attract even more attention. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2004; Polish; Pass)

Nowadays, it is extremely difficult to imagine how workers lived ten years ago, especially because of the incredibly fast evolution in technology. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1998; Italian; Pass)

I would make a totally new programme, in which the following points must be improved: … (Mexico; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Spanish - Latin American; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC2FORM: COMPARISON Can use adjectives in 'as … as' and 'so … that' in comparative structures. ► comparative clausesBecause our debates do not draw as large a number of students as the guest appearances, but are still enjoyed by a relevant number of students, we propose a change of focus for the events. (Sweden; C2 MASTERY; 2006; Swedish; Pass)

It was such a riddle that I went and saw my psycho-analyst, who revealed to me that I once had so strong a shock that I was now walking and hiding my money in my sleep. (France; C2 MASTERY; 1998; French; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC1FORM: PAST PARTICPLE AS ADJECTIVECan use the '–ed' form of a verb as an adjective, after a noun.First of all, I would recommend providing a wider range of films and introducing discussions after each film shown. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2006; Polish; Pass)

It is believed that if some improvements are made, the club will live up to the high standards required . (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Greek; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC2FORM/USE: DEGREE ADJECTIVES BEFORE NOUNSCan use an increasing range of adjectives before a noun to express intensity.As a conclusion, I shall say that the major problem concerns the exam. (France; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; French; Pass)

It is located in the very centre of Pisa, in a magnificent ancient building. (Italy; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Italian; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC1FORM/USE: WITH NOUN AND POSTMODFIERCan use a postmodifier to make the superlative stronger in the structure superlative + postmodifier + noun. What is more, in order to increase sales of the new model to the highest possible level, the possibility of entering the Asian markets should be considered. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2005; Polish; Fail)

I am fond of the idea of working in Central London. It absolutely is the best possible location , I cannot deny that. (Serbian, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2008)

It is not the shortest possible route, but the easiest for people with luggage. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Polish; Fail)
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ADJECTIVESC1FORM/USE: WITH POSTMODFIER AND NOUNCan use a postmodifier to make the superlative stronger, in the structure superlative + noun + postmodifier ('possible', 'ever', 'by far'). … we want to present ourselves in the best way possible. (Yugoslavia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Serbian; Pass)

…this cleansing gel will definitely produce good results in the shortest time possible. (Malaysia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Chinese; Pass)

Achieving health by using her common sense and having fun while doing it is probably her greatest performance ever and, if elected, she could share that with the world. (Sweden; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2005; Swedish; Pass)
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ADJECTIVESC2FORM/USE: 'SLIGHTEST', 'FAINTEST'Can use 'the slightest', 'the faintest' with a specific range of nouns to express the least amount possible, most frequently following a negative verb form.I should not end my relationship with Alex by phone, without giving him the slightest explanation. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Greek; Pass)

They act as consumers, nothing more, and never show the slightest interest in learning and sharing opinions with the locals. (France; C2 MASTERY; 1993; French; Pass)

I haven't the faintest idea. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Dutch; Pass)
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ADVERBSC1USE: DEGREE, WITH ADJECTIVESCan use a wide range of adverbs with adjectives to express degree or intensity.It deals with the friendship between two completely different men. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; German; Pass)

It is extremely important that the project is finished before September. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Greek; Pass)

The last thing I would like to mention is that you have lost a single passenger's luggage three times, which is totally unacceptable. (Sweden; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2005; Swedish; Pass)
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ADVERBSC1USE: CERTAINTYCan use a wide range of adverbs to indicate degrees of certainty. It was undoubtedly an unforgettable experience. (Portuguese, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 1993)

Television programms are undeniably a way of keeping ourselves well-informed and open to a special knowledge of every aspect of our lives. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Polish; Pass)

I bought a skirt, a pair of jeans and a white dress, because I absolutely need new clothes for your party! (Italy; A2 WAYSTAGE; 2008; Italian; Pass)
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ADVERBSC1USE: STANCECan use a wide range of stance adverbs (simply, truly, surely, apparently, naturally, surprisingly, inevitably, literally, exceptionally, frankly, clearly, amazingly, wisely, admittedly) to indicate an attitude or viewpoint, often in clause initial position.Obviously everybody has the right to be on a strike. (Spanish - Other, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 1993)

We can't truly blame ourselves for this unlucky beginning. (Greek, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2000)

Apparently someone made a mistake writing the details I gave over the phone. (Polish, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2009)

Naturally , I inclined towards the second option. (Romanian, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2008)

Luckily for me, I stayed with a kind and helpful host family but they lived four miles from the school. (Swedish, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 1993)
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ADVERBSC2USE: DISTANCINGCan use adverbs mid clause, to distance the writer from what they are saying. He came out from school at the age of 16, and joined the "Universidad xxx" - the best one in Chile, supposedly - to study Economics (Spanish - Latin American, C2 MASTERY, Pass, 1993)
The author of the letter apparently has no experience of being a parent in our times. (Polish, C2 MASTERY, Pass, 200)
He was quite nice to me, surprisingly and he told him that he would do his best but that the music was not too loud. (France; C2 MASTERY; 1997; French; Pass)
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ADVERBSC1FORM: DEGREE, MODIFYING ADVERBSCan use an increasing range of degree adverbs to modify a range of adverb types. ► adjectives ► adverb phrases: formThe attitude of young people today towards keeping fit and healthy has almost completely changed. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; German; Pass)

Moreover, making use of some techniques I practised in the How to Negotiate classes is something which happens to me quite frequently. (Italy; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Romanian; Pass)

The mobile market is growing incredibly fast in Britain and your company is leading this process. (Brazil; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2006; Portuguese; Pass)

Recently, the charity organised a fun-raising day, which went reasonably well . (Thailand; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Thai; Pass)
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ADVERBSC1FORM: DEGREE, MODIFYING COMPARATIVESCan use degree adverbs ('slightly', 'a bit', 'much') to modify comparatives.My Spanish is slightly more fluent than my English, because I lived in Spain longer than in England. (Russia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; Russian; Fail)

It will be a bit more expensive than the bus but it's safer and quicker. (France; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; French; Pass)

Despite all the controversies between these two generations, the grandchildren shouldn't forget that their grandparents are much more experienced. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Greek; Pass)
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ADVERBSC2FORM/USE: FRONT POSITION, INVERSION, WITH 'HARDLY'Can use 'hardly' in front position followed by an inverted subject and verb, to give focus. Hardly had he reached his front door when he heard the phone ringing. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Greek; Pass)

Hardly had she finished her complaints when Bob stood up, paid and left. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; French; Pass)

Hardly had they arrived when they saw a sleek, black car leaving the house's yard. (Italy; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Italian; Pass)
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ADVERBSC2FORM/USE: MID POSITION, DISTANCINGCan use adverbs in mid position, to distance the writer from what they are saying. In all actuality Piggy himself theoretically has all the necessary character traits and skills at his disposal that would ensure he would be an effective leader. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)

For the houses opposite the cargo area we strongly support the idea of a "green" wall, as it was mentioned in the report of the town council but surprisingly seems to have been forgotten afterwards. (German, C2 MASTERY, Pass, 1993)
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ADVERBSC1FORM: ADVERB + ADVERBCan modify a wide range of adverbs with other adverbs. Even the beautiful, attractive cover and the extra Audio CD aren’t enough to justify the slightly higher price, especially because the value of this game will drop extremely rapidly. (Luxembourg; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Greek; Pass)

Firstly, we should get some TV airtime, to catch the attention of a large number of people effectively and achieve a substantial market penetration relatively quickly. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; German; Pass)
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ADVERBSC1FORM/USE: ADVERB + 'ENOUGH'Can post-modify adverbs with 'enough to intensify'.Surprisingly enough, Meal's management was very responsive. (Netherlands; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2009; Dutch; Pass)

Sadly enough, I wasn't able to find any job proposals for us myself, so I'll just have to speculate on the results of your work. (Russia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Russian; Pass)

Luckily enough, we have a garden where we can cook over an open fire, and as the temperatures in June are rather enjoyable here in Sweden, it actually works. (C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)
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ADVERBSC1FORM/USE: ADVERBS + PREPOSITIONAL PHRASES, HIGHLIGHTCan post-modify adverbs with a complex prepositional phrase complement, to highlight information. Luckily for you, I kept notes on everything we did, so I proudly present to you the top 4 of our course-days. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2009; Greek; Pass)

Unfortunately for some of them, the "holiday of their dreams" turned out to be rather nightmarish. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; German; Pass)

Especially in the period of 1999-2001, it shot up from 5 points to 7 points. (China; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2002; Chinese; Pass)

Probably in the next ten or more years, the engineering profession will be as much respected as it used to be twenty years ago. (Russia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2001; Russian; Pass)
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ADVERBSC2FORM: PRE- AND POST-MODIFIED ADVERBSCan form adverb phrases with modifiers before, and complements after, adverbs. Many politicians and owners of big enterprises have been able for a long time to work almost exclusively for their own interests. (C2 MASTERY; 1993; ; Pass)

It was so completely in harmony with the sun, the sea, the sand, the summer, I decided instantly that was the kind of thing I would like to keep and collect. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2002; Greek; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1FORM: SUPERLATIVE ADVERB 'BEST' + CLAUSECan use 'the best' as a superlative adverb + pronoun + ellipted 'can' or 'could'. I'm sorry to say that she is not the best of cooks but she tries the best she can. (Sweden; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)

On Thursday I did the best I could. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2009; Greek; Pass)

However, to make sure that we offer the best we can, we would be grateful if you gave us a grant. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Greek; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM/USE: 'SO ... AS TO', FORMALCan use 'so' + adjective + 'as' + 'to'-infinitive clause, usually in formal contexts.Travellers should not be so ignorant as to think they can understand other nationalities better when they have once lived in one of their hotels. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)

However, as soon as my glaring eyes met his, beseeching and helpless, I knew I couldn't endure being so cruel as to deny him my caring shoulder... (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

Should I be so fortunate as to win the scholarship, I would use it in a way that would not only affect me, but very much so also the area in which I live. (Denmark; C2 MASTERY; 2001; Danish; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM: 'AS IF' + NON-FINITE CLAUSECan use 'as if' + non-finite clause to introduce a second clause as a comparison. She closed her eyes as if to push those thoughts away. (Brazil; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

There it was: the chef's body, hacked to pieces, a carving knife in his hand as if to scare off an enemy. (Brazil; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Portuguese; Pass)

I was so frightened that my heart was beating like crazy as if trying to leave my body. (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

Because of this, my mother never denied us anything, as if trying to compensate for our father's death. (Brazil; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1FORM/USE: 'NOT ONLY … BUT (ALSO)' WITH INVERSION, FOCUSCan combine clauses using 'not only' in front position followed by an inverted first clause + … 'but (also)' to introduce the second clause, to give focus.And not only did they come for the most popular sports, such as football and basketball, but many other less known activities were very well attended. (Spain; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; Spanish - European; Pass)

Not only was he helpful but the students had the opportunity to watch videos and listen to music. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Greek; Pass)

Not only has the cost improved, but also the value for money. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2005; Swiss German; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM/USE: NEGATIVE CLAUSE + 'NOR', FOCUSCan combine a negative clause with an inverted clause with 'nor', to give focus.That night Kevin did not sleep; nor did Kristin. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1999; Catalan; Pass)

They do not have any hobbies, nor do they have friends or relatives (at least not where they live). (Sweden; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)

Her diary was never found, nor was Juliette. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Dutch; Pass)

I should never have agreed to meet him, after all I didn't know the man nor did I understand what he was talking about, but he really said my friend Peter was in danger, that's what made me say yes. (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Fail)
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CLAUSESC1FORM/USE: 'LET' + THIRD PERSON PRONOUN, PERMISSION, ORDERCan use an imperative clause with 'let' + 'him/her/them' + base form of a main verb, to give permission or allow something or instruct someone to allow something.Try to play chess with him whenever you can and remember: Let him win! (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Greek; Pass)

While in London, they want to do their shopping there, so let them have more free time to do that. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

If she wants to study away from home, please, let her go . (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2010; Polish; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1FORM/USE: DON'T 'LET' + PRONOUN, PERMISSION, ORDERCan use an imperative clause with 'let' + 'him/her/them' + base form of a main verb, to disallow something or instruct someone to disallow something.Don't let them spend all their free time in front of the TV. (Sweden; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; Swedish; Pass)

Don't let him go out alone, because he may not feel well. (Portugal; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1USE: POINTING, IN FORMAL CONTEXTSCan use imperatives to point within or to a document within formal contexts, often academic.See enclosed brochure. (Sweden; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)

As you requested in your memo, I have spent the past few days gathering information from the six students involved in our programme (see above). (Catalan, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2000)

Look at the graph of the Agricultural sector 1991-2001. (China; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2002; Chinese; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1FORM/USE: IMPERATIVE + 'AND' CONDITIONALCan use imperatives to introduce a condition followed by 'and' to introduce a consequence of the condition. See one of them and you'll want to see them all. (C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM/USE: 'LET' + THIRD PERSON PRONOUN, DEVOLVING RESPONSIBILITYCan use an imperative clause with 'let' + 'him/her/them' + base form of a main verb, to devolve responsibility. Let them find their own food. (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

But she put aside her friends because she didn't want to be pitied. After few attempts her friends gave up."Let her live alone". (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

So let them be and let them scrutinize the peculiar events that do occur in life. (Sweden; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM/USE: 'DON'T YOU …'Can use you with an imperative form to make an instruction stronger.Don't you ever do that again! (Cyprus; C2 MASTERY; 2001; Greek; Pass)

Don't you dare! (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

Don't you dare forget me, I want letters from you promptly, understand! (Korea, South; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Korean; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM: 'HOW' + CLAUSECan use 'How' + clause. How I often longed to play with the other children or relax with a good book. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)

How I love the smell of home! (Brazil; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

How I long to be there again. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Dutch; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM: 'HOW' + ADVERB + CLAUSECan use 'How' + adverb + clause. How differently we were brought up by our mother. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1FORM: NON-FINITE AFTER 'IF'Can use non-finite clauses after 'if'. .► 'clauses: conditionals'Please do not hesitate to ask for further assistance if needed. (other; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; German; Pass)

Finally, there are some suggestions that, if taken, could improve the schools' academic standards. (Brazil; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Portuguese; Pass)

There are plenty of taxis, of course, but they are very expensive, if compared with London taxis. (Italy; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Italian; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1FORM/USE: INVERSIONCan introduce a subordinate clause with inverted 'should/had/were' + subject + verb, in formal contexts. Should you need any further assistance, do not hesitate to contact me. (Czech; Czech Republic; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; Pass; 2007)

Had we known that before we could have taken more money with us. (Greek, Greece, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2008)

Were I able to travel to any place and time, I would probably choose the Greece of more than two thousand years ago. (Spanish – European, Spain, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass 2000)
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CLAUSESC1FORM/USE: NON-FINITE WITH '-ED' CLAUSES, FOCUSCan use a non-finite subordinate clause with an '-ed' form, before a main clause, to give focus.Compared to the campsite job this one has its advantages. (Romania; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Romanian; Pass)

Based on the assessment above, I strongly recommend that we should take some action to improve the store. (China; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Chinese; Pass)

Given all the inconveniences explained above I expect compensation from your company and if I do not hear from you within ten days I will have to contact my solicitors and take further steps. (Spain; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1998; Spanish - European; Pass)

Based in Zurich with departments all over Europe we reach almost 150 million people. (Sweden; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2010; Romansch; Pass)
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CLAUSESC1FORM/USE: 'NOT' + '-ING' CLAUSECan use a non-finite clause, introduced by 'not' + '-ing', to give more information. Not knowing the North of London very well it took me quite a long time to get there. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2004; German; Pass)

A nine-member family living peacefully in 19th-century England is suddenly shocked by the untimely death of the mother. Not having accepted his wife's death, the father, George, deeply depressed, is left alone to raise his seven children. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Greek; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM/USE: NON-FINITE AFTER 'ALTHOUGH', 'THOUGH'Can use non-finite clauses after subordinating conjunctions '(although, though)', to express contrast.
I was my parents' first and only child, and I was brought up at my grandparents' home, because, although married, my mother decided not to leave her parents' home, and my father agreed with her. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Spanish - European; Pass)

Although committed to her job she successfully maintains her social contacts all over the world. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)

Jack, though disappointed, respects the result. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)
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CLAUSESC2FORM/USE: 'WERE' + PRONOUN + 'TO' INFINITIVE, FORMALCan use 'Were' + pronoun + 'to' infinitive to introduce a condition, in formal contexts. Were I to choose one of them, I would select the last one, so that I could have the opportunity to take part in my favourite radio station's programme. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2005; Greek; Fail)

Were you to need any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 1998; French; Fail)

Were we to give them this opportunity, it would not only be a great advantage for them but for the future of our society as well. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2003; Greek; Pass)

Were they to be paid a sufficient sum, say, equivalent or even more than their current pay-check, they would be inclined to give up their jobs. (Cyprus; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Greek; Pass)
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CONDITIONALSC1FORM/USE: 'IF' + PAST PERFECT + MODAL VERBS IMAGINED SITUATION, REGRETCan form conditional subordinate clauses with 'if' + the past perfect simple and modal verb + 'have' + '-ed' in the main clause, to talk about imagined situations in the past, often with regret.All this could have been avoided, if the plan had been more flexible. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

Several statements in the newspaper could have been avoided, if the writer had taken notice of the income results which were sent along with the other facts from the charity day. (Denmark; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Danish; Pass)

However, I think I could have learned more if more individual tuition had been available. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

I wrote this article referring to my own experience in London, hence I might have had a different opinion if I had gone to another city or country. (Italy; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; Italian; Pass)
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CONDITIONALSC1FORM: ELLIPTED 'IF' CLAUSECan form ellipted 'if' clauses with 'if' + '-ed' form.Furthermore I found little rooms where an employee could take a short nap if needed. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2002; Swiss German; Pass)

Meals are served, if requested, three times a day, unless picnic lunches are needed. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; German; Pass)

Women who want to start a career more often decide to be single or, if married, don't devote much time to the family. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Polish; Pass)
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CONDITIONALSC1FORM/USE: 'IF' + 'SHOULD', FORMAL, POLITECan form subordinate conditional clauses with 'if you should', in polite, formal contexts. If you should have any concerns about my choice, please tell me. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; German; Pass)

If you should have any problems, you can go to an information booth and you will be told which train you have to take to Hassau. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; German; Pass)

If you should get lost, don't hesitate to call us. (C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)

If you should have any further questions do not hesitate to contact us. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2006; German; Pass)
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CONDITIONALSC1FORM: INVERTED CONDITIONAL CLAUSE, 'SHOULD'Can introduce a conditional subordinate clause with 'should' + inverted subject.Should you require any further information about the program or any other detail please do not hesitate to ask for it. (Spain; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2002; Spanish - European; Pass)

Should there be a lack of mutual understanding a break-up is unavoidable. (C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; German; Pass)
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CONDITIONALSC2USE: INVERTED 'SHOULD', FUTURE, POSSIBLE OUTCOME, FORMAL, POLITE Can use inverted 'should', + 'would' in the main clause to talk about possible future outcomes, in polite or formal contexts. Should we win your prize we would like to build a new school close to our production center, for the children of the area. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2004; German; Pass)

Should you fail to do so, we would have no choice but to take further action. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2009; Polish; Pass)
50
CONDITIONALSC2FORM/USE: INVERTED PAST PERFECT, IMAGINED PASTCan use past perfect + inverted subject, and a modal verb + 'have' + '-ed' in the main clause to talk about imagined situations in the past.Had he been more experienced he would have known that these things always happen in this part of the world. (Sweden; C2 MASTERY; 2001; Swedish; Pass)

Had we known this fact we would have organised more activities within school hours. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 2006; French; Pass)

Had we learnt from the mistakes of the past, we would have given up fighting each other a long time ago. (Russia; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Russian; Pass)

Had I known so many people from abroad were coming to visit our stand, I would have studied harder during my private lessons in the past. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Spanish - European; Pass)

Had this file fallen into enemy hands, it might have had disastrous effects on the Western world. (Denmark; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Danish; Pass)

Had public transportation been an option I would have chosen that instead of my car. (Denmark; C2 MASTERY; 2010; Danish; Pass)
51
CONDITIONALSC2FORM/USE: INVERTED 'WERE' + 'TO' INFINITIVE, FORMALCan use 'were' with an inverted subject + 'to' infinitive, to introduce conditions in formal contexts. ► past simpleWere I to win this travel scholarship, the country of my choice would be Japan. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 2001; German; Pass)

Were you to compare people's views on animals to their views on food, you would find many similarities. (Sweden; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Swedish; Pass)

Were someone to decide that he did not want to go to university, he would have to face the consequences of his choice. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2009; Greek; Pass)

Were this suggestion to be put into practice, our town's personality would change completely from a small town to a port of call for a large number of visitors. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2003; Greek; Pass)
52
CONDITIONALSC2FORM/USE: SUBORDINATING CONJUNCTIONS, CONDITIONSCan use conditional subordinate clauses with a range of conjunctions ('so long as', 'on condition that', 'in the event that') with past, present or future reference.As a matter of fact, education is free and as a result they can attend whichever university they desire so long as they have the proper qualifications, of course. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2005; Greek; Pass)

I was allowed to bring my friends home and go out with them on condition that my parents knew where I was and when I was going to return. (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Polish; Pass)
53
CONDITIONALSC2FORM/USE: 'WERE IT NOT FOR', FORMALCan use 'Were it not for' + noun phrase to introduce conditions in formal contexts. ► past simpleWere it not for my university, I would give up this class immediately. (Russia; B1 THRESHOLD; 2002; Russian; Pass)

Were it not for that kind of toy, children would be able to gain more team-spirit, creativity and self-confidence. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2008; Greek; Pass)

In fact, were it not for that reason, Laura would have accepted the comfortable executive chair in a big company. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Spanish - European; Pass)
54
CONDITIONALSC2FORM/USE: 'IF IT WERE NOT FOR', FORMALCan use 'If it weren't / were not for' + noun phrase to introduce conditions in formal contexts. ► past simpleIf it weren't for that boy, I am definitely certain that I would have failed the examinations and I would have ended up taking the class again the following year. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2009; Greek; Pass)

If it weren't for his determination, he would have resigned when he first heard "no". (Brazil; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)
55
CONDITIONALSC2FORM/USE: 'IF IT WERE' + 'TO'-INFINITIVE FORM, FORMALCan use 'If it were' + 'to-' infinitive to introduce conditions in formal contexts. If it were to be published, the first issue would probably include a small introduction about the people who helped in the creation of the magazine. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2001; Greek; Pass)

However displacing such a number of commuters will need a lot of planning and a very good infrastructure if it were to succeed. (South Africa; C2 MASTERY; 2010; English)
56
CONDITIONALSC2FORM/USE: 'WHETHER OR NOT', FORMAL Can use 'whether or not' to introduce conditions in formal contexts.Whether or not the visitors should imitate local customs and behaviour is definitely a debatable issue. (India; 2003; Hindi)

Whether or not it is better to educate boys and girls in separate schools has been a widely discussed issue in recent years. (Japan; 2008; Japanese)

Whether or not richer countries should help these poor nations is a very controversial issue, there are people on both sides of the argument who have very strong feelings. (Sudan; 2001; Arabic - Egyptian)

However, it depends only on the children whether or not they'll go to a university and there are many factors to be considered before deciding on going. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2009; Greek; Pass)
57
CONJUNCTIONSC1FORM/USE: 'YET', CONCESSIVECan use '(and) yet' to combine phrases and clauses to introduce a contrast, often unexpected. In the face of these recent events, our department also reviewed the contract with ProLine International, and found some interesting yet unpleasant details. (Romania; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Romanian; Fail)

This college is famous for its art teachers and very skilled students, and yet it does not have its own gallery. (C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2006; Polish; Pass)

The host family was carefully selected, yet it was four miles away from school. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Polish; Pass)
58
CONJUNCTIONSC1FORM: 'EITHER … OR'Can use 'either … or' to combine more complex strings of clauses and sentences.And finally, about the present, you have two options; either you get something typical from your country, which they may like because you know how much they like collecting things from all over the world, or I get something from the wedding list store and sent it to them with your name on it and we can sort it out when you arrive here. (Spain; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1998; Catalan; Pass)
59
CONJUNCTIONSC1FORM/USE: 'NOT ONLY … BUT ALSO'Can use 'not only … but also' to combine phrases and clauses, often for focus or emphasis.This book is not only a guide to the history of music but also a compendium of theory. (Spain; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; Catalan; Pass)

In addition to that, if we move to the new premises, we can not only solve the above problems, but also gain other benefits such as a better environment. (China; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Chinese; Fail)

If we go back in time we will see that the difference between the old and the modern films is not only the number produced but also the content. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Greek; Pass)
60
CONJUNCTIONSC1FORM/USE: 'NOT ONLY … BUT ALSO' WITH INVERSIONCan use inverted auxiliary 'do' + the subject after 'not only', to give focus.Indeed, not only did they teach us useful knowledge, but they also organised practical exercises to ensure that we had assimilated all the information. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2006; Greek; Pass)

Furthermore, not only do I speak (and write) in fluent English, but I also speak French, Spanish and Portuguese. (Brazil; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2004; Mende; Pass)

For me, not only do extreme sports provide satisfaction of achievement, but they also help you to express yourself. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Greek; Pass)
61
CONJUNCTIONSC2FORM/USE: 'NEITHER'Can use 'Neither' or 'Nor' + inverted auxiliary or 'be' + subject to add to a previous related negative clause, to focus on an additional negative factor. Nevertheless, I have no recollection of ever leaving my diary. In fact, I can clearly remember that I kept it with me all the time I was working. Neither do I remember losing it during the time I was on the platform waiting for my train to pull in. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Catalan; Pass)

Maybe he will eventually get over this terrible experience, but he's bound to be a lonelier boy than he was. Nor does Jack's future look any more promising. (Italy; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Italian; Pass)

There are also considerable disturbances during day-time. It is, for example, not possible to lead a conversation, e.g. on the veranda, without shouting. Nor is it possible to watch television peacefully without the thunderous noise in the background. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)

At first, I didn’t pay attention to the large number of magazines and newspapers she subscribed to. Neither did I oppose her 'need' to get new clothes every month. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Catalan; Pass)
62
CONJUNCTIONSC2FORM/USE: 'AND YET', CONCESSIVECan use 'And yet' to combine sentences to introduce a contrast, often unexpected, sometimes in a formal context. If I had, I would try to do the best for them, just like my parents did, and very likely I would make the same mistakes. And yet, I think I would be a good and loving father. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)

I felt very embarrassed and I was sure I would get the sack. And yet the manager forgave me and I continued to work there. (Poland; B2 VANTAGE; 1993; Polish; Pass)
63
CONJUNCTIONSC1FORM/USE: FOCUSCan use 'whatever', 'wherever', 'however', etc. as a subordinating conjunction, at the beginning of a sentence, to give focus.Whatever you choose, you'll probably have to share it with other people. (C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1998; Swedish; Pass)

Whatever the cause of the fall in the standard of your services is, we would strongly recommend that you take all the necessary measures to make sure that this won't happen again. (Romania; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Romanian; Fail)

Wherever you go, you find shops, hotels and pubs which are full of tourists. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Greek; Pass)

Whoever we appoint, he/she should be a well-qualified, educated and flexible person. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2001; Polish; Fail)
64
CONJUNCTIONSC2FORM/USE: 'IN THAT'Can use 'in that' as a subordinating conjunction, to give greater in-depth explanation, often in formal contexts. Nowadays it is widely argued that professional sports are damaging to people's health in that they involve gruelling training sessions as an integral part of the occupation. (Russia; C2 MASTERY; 2003; Russian; Pass)

It's often said that nowadays people must be proud of medical advances, in that life is getting considerably longer. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Catalan; Fail)
65
DETERMINERSC2USE: 'THIS', IN NARRATIVESCan use 'this' with nouns and noun phrases in a narrative to create a sense of immediacy.[talking about two characters in a story] There's this flame of passion between them. (France; C2 MASTERY; 1993; French; Pass)

It's a story where there's this old man who makes a marionette that comes to life. (Japan; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Japanese; Pass)

In our group there was this girl, tiny and fragile, very sensitive; she had a special way with words. (C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)
66
DETERMINERSC2FORM/USE: 'THIS' WITH NOUN AND POSSESSIVECan use 'this' + noun + 'of' + possessive pronoun to highlight something, often in a positive way. What is more, not only is this rare talent of theirs used for public pleasure but also for international sports success, which makes us all proud. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2009; Greek; Pass)

This characteristic of his is shown in every situation of his life. (Brazil; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)
67
DETERMINERSC2USE: EMOTIONAL DISTANCECan use 'that' and 'those' to convey emotional distance, often to express disapproval.I also told her that if I had been in her shoes, I would not have put up with that sort of behaviour. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Greek; Pass)

Nowadays, celebrities, like pop stars or football players, are often worshipped by hysterical crowds of fans who can't see through the mask that those so-called heroes make up to sell the product that they are. (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 2005; Portuguese; Pass)
68
DETERMINERSC1FORM: 'ONE'S'Can use 'one's' to indicate possession, referring to people in general. Living in Greece, I have had a chance to realise how much tourism can affect one's life. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Greek; Pass)

After one has spent enough time away from one 's parents and has a personality of one's own, it is definitely possible to move in with one's parents. (Romania; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Hungarian; Pass)

In my opinion, this process depends on one's ability to open another way of communicating apart from one's mother language. (Portugal; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)
69
DETERMINERSC2FORM: SINGULAR NOUN ENDING IN 'S' + APOSTROPHECan use an apostrophe after singular nouns ending in 's', to indicate possession.However, I believe that in order to maintain its popularity, the programme should keep some of the series' aspects the same, but alter some others. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2009; Greek; Pass)
70
DETERMINERSC2FORM: ''S' WITH ELLIPTED NOUNCan use ''s' without a following noun when the noun has already been mentioned or is obvious in the context. Olivia's experiences probably are the narrator's. (Italy; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Italian; Pass)

He started to shake me and meanwhile I heard a familiar voice; it was my father's. (Portugal; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

Suddenly, after two weeks I realised that my bank account was empty and so was my friend's. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Dutch; Pass)
71
DETERMINERSC2FORM: ''S + 'S'Can use two possessive ''s' constructions in the same noun phrase. There were no photographs of him in Ann 's mother's albums. (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

They spent two weeks together at Emily's grandmother's house, after fourteen months of dating. (Argentina; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Spanish - Latin American; Pass)
72
DETERMINERSC1FORM: 'EITHER', 'NEITHER' WITH SINGULAR NOUNSCan use 'either' and 'neither' with singular nouns.Second, we would draw your attention to the fact that neither party could foresee or predict the recent rise in the price of wheat. (Russia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Russian; Pass)

In the Czech Republic, somewhere between those two extremes, either way is possible. (Czech Republic; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Czech; Pass)

This way, the toilet can be accessed easily from either floor. (United States of America; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Chinese; Pass)
73
DETERMINERSC1FORM: 'EITHER', 'NEITHER' + 'OF' + DETERMINER WITH PLURAL NOUNSCan use 'either' and 'neither' + 'of' with plural noun phrases or pronouns.► pronounsEither of the measures is recommended and those measures are bound to enhance the company's competitive power. (China; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2002; Chinese; Pass)

Of course if you are not at all interested in sports, neither of these games will be of any interest to you. (Sweden; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Swedish; Pass)

However, you forgot to add that neither of us could foresee the rise in the price of wheat. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Polish; Pass)
74
DETERMINERSC1USE: HYPERBOLECan use determiners in hyperbole, often in informal contexts ('millions of', 'loads of', 'tons of').My kitchen is absolutely cramped. I love cooking and despite the fact that I have no space, I managed to fit in a table as well as millions of cookbooks and all the necessary kitchen tools. (German, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2000)

I'm going to make loads of cookies this year and will give them in nice little boxes to my family and friends. (German, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2008)

I received tons of plastic ducks every time I had my birthday or some kind of celebration. (Greek, C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY, Pass, 2008)
75
DETERMINERSC2FORM/USE: 'MANY A' WITH SINGULAR NOUNS, FOR FOCUSCan use 'many a' or 'many an' + singular noun for emphasis and focus.We have come a long way and climbed many a mountain but are we really better off than our ancestors? (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

Her father's pharmacy was broken into very often, the local drug addicts were relentless and Mary was threatened many a time on her way home from work. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 2001; Greek; Pass)

It has raised many an issue which I would like to comment upon here. (Russia; C2 MASTERY; 2006; Russian; Pass)
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DISCOURSE MARKERSC1FORM/USE: TEXTUAL REFERENCECan use a range of phrases as discourse markers to point to other parts of a text. As mentioned above, it might be possible to negotiate better contracts for your company. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Swiss German; Pass)

I hope this brief note has convinced you to start this club. As mentioned earlier, I have already asked for information. (Netherlands; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Dutch; Pass)

So as shown above, I recommend TELECARS to be our car services supplier because it offers all we need. (China; B2 VANTAGE; 2002; Chinese; Pass)
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FOCUSC1FORM/USE: FIXED EXPRESSIONS, FRONTINGCan use fixed expressions in the front position for focus.At the end of the day everything is up to you! (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Greek; Fail)

All in all, the activity week was a nice experience for both students and teachers. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Greek; Pass)

All things considered, I would recommend the third proposal as it seems to me that it covers most of the points the students have been complaining about. (Italy; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1999; Italian; Pass)

When it comes down to it, who does not like such a surprise? (Brazil; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Portuguese; Pass)

When you think about it, can we afford a flat in Central London and still have something left with a basic salary? (Croatia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Croatian; Pass)
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FOCUSC1FORM/USE: IMPERATIVESCan use imperatives as pointing devices within texts for focus.Note the disadvantages of this transfer. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2002; Greek; Pass)

Notice the difference in the salary. (Ecuador; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Spanish - Latin American; Pass

See the written instructions on the phone for complete instruction. (C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Swedish; Fail)
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FOCUSC1FORM/USE: 'WHAT' CLEFT CLAUSECan use 'What' + noun or pronoun + verb phrase as subject + 'be', for focus. What we need is a strong publicity campaign, directed at young people. (Portugal; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

What everyone loved were the special effects and we were very impressed by the use of advanced technological innovations. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Greek; Pass)

What companies care about is money and football players help them to earn it. (Spain; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2005; Catalan; Pass)

What tourists want is to see the most typical things in England, not a hamburger restaurant or a London musical from the back row in the gallery. (Spain; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Spanish - European; Pass)

What students learn are mostly facts and theories. (Korea, South; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2001; Korean; Pass)

What I found particularly fascinating about this story is that it is still exciting and thrilling, despite the plot being rather easy to follow. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; Greek; Pass)
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FOCUSC1FORM/USE: 'WH-'CLEFT CLAUSE, TITLESCan use 'Wh-'cleft clauses as titles or subtitles, to point to something that follows, for focus.Why I think this is a good idea
People are sensitive, and when they hear about charities, they always want to help. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Greek; Pass)

Why you should choose that event
If you fund this event, you will gain in two ways: firstly you will help needy people, and secondly you will be admired. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Greek; Fail)

The aim of this is to find out why our biggest customer stopped purchasing from our company.
How I investigated. First I started looking on the internet in general. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2009; German; Fail)

How we could benefit in terms of sales
This drink will be taken by athletes of any kind. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Greek; Pass)
81
FOCUSC1FORM/USE: NON-FINITE WITH '-ED' CLAUSESCan use a non-finite subordinate clause with an '-ed' form, before a main clause, for focus, often in formal, academic or business contexts.Compared to other European capitals, there has been a lot done to make riding a bike less dangerous and more comfortable in Berlin. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1998; German; Pass)

Outlined below are some essential reasons which justify my choice and should be seriously considered. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Greek; Pass)
82
FOCUSC2FORM/USE: 'NOT A' + NOUNCan use 'Not a' + noun with a passive verb or inverted auxiliary and subject for focus. Not a word was spoken by anyone throughout the journey. (Cyprus; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Greek; Pass)

Not a scrap of remorse do they have. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; French; Pass)
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FOCUSC2FORM/USE: 'WH-'CLEFT CLAUSECan use 'How', 'Why', or 'Where' cleft clauses as subject, for focusHow we are brought up forms our character, our thinking and our attitude towards ourselves and towards everybody and everything around us. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Fail)

Where he had gone to was a mystery. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Dutch; Pass)

How they influenced my life is hard to tell. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1997; German; Pass)

Why I think my father is successful is because of his personality, he is very fair about everything,; for example if he sees two beautiful women walking down the street and you ask him which is the nicest of them, he couldn't tell even if one was plain ugly he couldn't. (Sweden; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)

[talking about possessions] How people have got their objects is also important. (Sweden; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Swedish; Pass)
84
FOCUSC2FORM/USE: 'THE' + PREMODIFIER + 'THING, FACT etc.' + 'IS (THAT)'Can use 'The' + premodifier + 'thing, fact, point, problem or reason' + 'is (that)' for focus.The sad thing about it was that it was actually Richard who said, "Why don't you go on holiday?' (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

The strange thing was that the noise reminded her of someone making a cup of tea. (C2 MASTERY; 1993; Swedish; Pass)

The sad fact is, poverty is very likely to pass down to the next generation in these situations. (China; C2 MASTERY; 1999; Chinese; Pass)

The relevant point is that that personal, almost intimate relationship between the possessor and the thing possessed is at the core of that particular love we all hold for certain things. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Catalan; Pass)

The only problem is that they are a little too noisy in the night. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 2003; Spanish - European; Pass)
85
FOCUSC2FORM/USE: 'IT' CLEFTCan use 'It' + 'be' + noun + 'that' clause for focus.It is Lily who decides to go to the seaside and it is also her who kills the turkey given by a lorry-driver. (France; C2 MASTERY; 1993; French; Pass)

It was Paul who stole the money. (Hong Kong; C2 MASTERY; 1997; Chinese; Pass)

It is Piggy who finds the conch and knows how to blow it. (Denmark; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Danish; Fail)

It is my mother who always plays the role of mediator. (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Polish; Pass)

It is this silence that gives me the impression of togetherness, for which no words are needed. (Netherlands; C2 MASTERY; 1997; Dutch; Pass)
86
FOCUSC2FORM/USE: MULTIPLE FIXED EXPRESSIONSCan use more than one fixed expression in the front position for added focus.But all of a sudden, out of nowhere a bunch of people came running towards him, yelling something he couldn't understand. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 2000; Chinese; Pass)

All in all, taking everything into account, I would suggest that a leisure centre would be the most beneficial as it provides all the facilities necessary to attract and benefit a number of people in the community. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 2009; Greek; Pass)

What is more, from my point of view happiness has nothing to do with big things but with small things such as day-to-day details. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Spanish - European; Pass)
87
FUTUREC1USE: EXPECTATIONS WITH 'MIGHT' OR 'MAY'Can use the future continuous with 'might' or 'may' to talk about an event or activity potentially in progress at a specified or understood time in the future.As far as I'm concerned, we should definitely do some additional publicity, particularly for the new offerings which might be coming up. (Netherlands; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2006; Dutch; Pass)

For example, your boss may be calling at 10 pm asking you to prepare a report for next day's meeting. (China; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2010; Chinese; )
88
FUTUREC2USE: 'BE DUE TO' Can use the simple past form of 'be' + 'due to' to talk about scheduled events in the future from a point in the past. It was quite early in the morning, only 7.15 am, and my plane was due to leave in about 40 minutes. (Germany; C2 MASTERY; 1993; German; Pass)

Ten minutes after the time we were due to begin, she arrived. (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Catalan; Pass)

We have succeeded in persuading the local Council that the factory that was due to be built near the lake was dangerous. (Greece; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Greek; Pass)
89
FUTUREC2USE: ASSUMPTIONSCan use the future perfect continuous to make assumptions about the present.I do not think that this aspect is really necessary because it is supposed that … you will have been studying very hard to occupy that job …. (Argentina; C2 MASTERY; 2005; Spanish - Latin American; Fail)
90
FUTUREC1FORM: WITH ADVERBS Can use the future perfect with adverbs (in the normal mid-position). If you have ever read a fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen you will surely have discovered why this man is so famous worldwide. (Denmark; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2001; Danish; Pass)

However, sales will possibly have fallen to 5000 units again by the end of the year. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2006; German; Pass)
91
FUTUREC1USE: ASSUMPTIONSCan use the future perfect simple with 'will' to make assumptions about the present, particularly with 'you'.As you will have heard, this year's work experience programme in Britain was in general a success. (Greece; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2000; Greek; Pass)

All of this is because her book will have included the cultural traditions that go with the dishes. (Brazil; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2003; Portuguese; Pass)
92
FUTUREC1USE: POLITENESSCan use the future perfect simple with 'will' as a politeness strategy, often in formal contexts.[from a formal letter] I hope I will have reassured you. (France; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; French; Pass)
93
FUTUREC2FORM: QUESTIONS Can use the question form of the future perfect simple.Will he have changed? (Spain; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Catalan; Fail)
94
FUTUREC1FORM: NEGATIVE 'SHALL' Can use the negative form 'shall not'.However, we shall not forget to mention the legal and social consequences of such a merger to the average employees. (Switzerland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Swiss German; Pass)

Therefore, my client shall not release you from the agreement, which is binding upon both parties. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; German; Pass)
95
FUTUREC2USE: LONG-TERM INTENTIONS WITH 'SHALL'Can use 'shall' to talk about long-term intentions. I must believe, believe in myself and in everybody else, and mainly in what I look for, this way I shall never lose hope. (Mexico; C2 MASTERY; 1993; Spanish - Latin American; Pass)

I shall always remember it as the city of lights. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 1997; French; Pass)

I shall always keep it in mind, in order to keep my children close to me and avoid being hated. (France; C2 MASTERY; 1993; French; Pass)

I came to the conclusion that the Excel Academy is not worth the money our company paid and that we shall not send further candidates there. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; German; Pass)
96
FUTUREC2USE: PREDICTIONS WITH 'SHALL'Can use 'shall' to make predictions, usually in formal contexts.Once more I invite you wholeheartedly to stay at my place and I hope we shall meet in November. (Poland; C2 MASTERY; 1998; Polish; Pass)

… we shall probably have several years more to live. (France; C2 MASTERY; 1993; French; Pass)
97
FUTUREC1FORM: WITH ADVERBS Can use 'be' + 'going to' with an increasing range of adverbs (particularly adverbs of certainty) in the normal mid position. Mario Soares is already an old man, nearly 70, who is probably going to finish his active political life in 2 or 3 years. (Portugal; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Portuguese; Pass)

As the new store is going to be the first and only one in Moscow, and, to make matters worse, it is going to be located close to our most successful outlet, it is undoubtedly going to have a detrimental effect on our company. (Poland; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2010; Polish; Pass)

Additionally, many British people stay at "Tall Trees Campsite", so I guess we would be forced to speak English all the time, which is also great because it is surely going to help us to improve our English skills. (Germany; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2008; German; Pass)
98
FUTUREC2FORM: WITH ADVERBS Can use 'be' + 'going to' with a wide range of adverbs before the main verb. But I don't know if I'm going to still live here. (Uruguay; B1 THRESHOLD; 2007; Spanish - Latin American; Pass)

First, I am going to briefly introduce the three main activities offered by the club. (Switzerland; C2 MASTERY; 2006; French; Pass)

Nobody is going to even look at you when your sister is there. (Israel; C2 MASTERY; 1997; Russian; Pass)
99
FUTUREC1FORM: WITH 'BY THE TIME'Can use the present simple with 'by the time' to refer to the future. … by the time he gets home, he will just want to go straight to bed. (Mexico; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1998; Spanish - Latin American; Pass)

By the time you arrive the information office at the airport will be closed, as at 11.00 o'clock a full day strike will start. (Italy; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Italian; Pass)
100
FUTUREC1USE: SUGGESTIONS, OBLIGATION Can use the present simple after speech act verbs expressing suggestions and obligation. We would suggest that our management takes a closer look. (C1 German)

I recommend that we go to the theatre in Ginza where "Miss Saigon" is on. (Japan; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 1993; Japanese; Pass)

Moreover, we insist that the agreement between you is legally binding …. (Russia; C1 EFFECTIVE OPERATIONAL PROFICIENCY; 2007; Russian; Pass)