Cheat sheet · Writing a C2 essay?
7 collocations that make it sound C2.
Swap the plain phrase for the collocation. Each one lifts a formal essay to C2.
cast doubt on
= make something seem less certain
Goes with findings · claims · the evidence
The new data makes us less sure about earlier findings.
The new data casts doubt on earlier findings.
raise concerns about
= make people worried about something
Goes with privacy · safety · costs
The plan makes people worried about privacy.
The plan has raised concerns about privacy.
play a pivotal role in
= be central to how something happens
Goes with shaping · recovery · development
Teachers are very important in shaping attitudes.
Teachers play a pivotal role in shaping attitudes.
draw a distinction between
= show how two things differ
Goes with fact and opinion · cause and effect
It is worth saying how needs and wants are different.
It is worth drawing a distinction between needs and wants.
pose a threat to
= be a danger to
Goes with health · security · wildlife
Rising sea levels are dangerous for coastal towns.
Rising sea levels pose a threat to coastal towns.
bear the brunt of
= suffer the worst part of something
Goes with the cuts · the crisis · the storm
Price rises hurt low-income families the most.
Low-income families bear the brunt of price rises.
lay the groundwork for
= prepare the basis for something
Goes with reform · growth · a deal
Early reading prepares children for later success.
Early reading lays the groundwork for later success.
