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Use of English

Level C2

Part 3 - Word Formation

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For Questions 1-8, read the text below and use the word given in capitals to form a word that fits in the gap.

The Craft of Word Formation

In the Cambridge Reading & Use of English paper, word formation is an (0) ESSENTIAL (ESSENCE) skill, because it tests whether candidates can manipulate language with precision. At C2 level, success depends on more than knowing long words: it requires an (1) .......... (AWARE) of register, collocation and nuance, as well as the ability to spot what part of speech a gap demands. A common mistake is to focus on meaning alone and ignore grammar. For instance, a sentence may require an adverb to modify a verb, yet many learners supply an adjective, which is immediately (2) .......... (ACCEPT) in exam terms. Another frequent issue is spelling: adding a suffix can trigger subtle changes, and even a minor (3) .......... (ACCURATE) may cost the mark. The best preparation is systematic. Build word families, note negative prefixes, and pay attention to how abstract nouns are typically (4) .......... (FORM) from verbs and adjectives. It also helps to read widely, since exposure to high-level texts increases your (5) .......... (FAMILIAR) with less common derivatives. Finally, remember that exam setters value (6) .......... (PRECISE): the “almost right” option is usually wrong. With regular practice, you can approach each gap with greater (7) .......... (CONFIDENT) and, crucially, develop the (8) .......... (FLEXIBLE) to switch quickly between possible forms before choosing the only one that fits perfectly.

What to do

For each gap you get one word in capitals which you have to change so the grammar and meaning fit in the sentence. Here you have to show how well you know word families and if you can change words by using prefixes and suffixes.

You need to read the whole text to get the writer’s opinion on the topic. That’s because sometimes a negative prefix will be required. There is usually at least one word requiring a negative prefix, so look out for these.

In the exam always write something. You never know, you might be lucky even if you are not sure of the answer!

Strategy

  1. Read the title and the whole text so that you understand what it is about.
  2. Look at each sentence in detail.
  3. Think about what kind of word you need and whether you need a negative prefix or a suffix.
  4. Read the sentence again to check whether you need a plural form.
  5. Check your spelling, as it must be correct.

Instructions

For Questions 1-8, read the text below and use the word given in capitals to form a word that fits in the gap.

Exercise Details

Author

Henrique Rosa

@henrique-rosa

User Prompt

"Craft a Reading & Use of English Word Formation exercise at level C2 that reflects the format and style of the Cambridge English Exam."

Tone: Standard
Level: C2

Created on:

Mar 25, 2026

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