C2 Proficiency - Word Formation Exercises

Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE)

The third part of the Reading and Use of English paper in the C2 Proficiency Examination is word formation where you have to use a root such as 'able' and create an appropriate word (disable, unable, ability) to fill the gap in a text.

Example Question

1. Why don't you demand a bigger say in the running of the company? Your _____________ acceptance of every decision is harming the health of the business.
question

Word Formation Exercise 1
Exercise Number: CPE038

Word Formation Exercise 2
Exercise Number: CPE039

Word Formation Exercise 3
Exercise Number: CPE040

Word Formation Exercise 4
Exercise Number: CPE041

Exam Tip!

If you are sure that the word is, for example, an adjective but you can't think what the exact word is, try thinking of "usual" prefixes and suffixes. Perhaps it needs the suffix "ive" or the prefix "de". Try a few out and see which ones seem to be best. This can also be done with nouns and verbs. Remember one thing: you know more English than you think you do! If you don't try, when you see the answer, you'll say "I knew that!" so think a little first, try to build your way to the answer!

Word Formation Exercise 5
Exercise Number: CPE042

Word Formation Exercise 6
Exercise Number: CPE043

Word Formation Exercise 7
Exercise Number: CPE044

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Word Formation Exercise 8
Exercise Number: CPE045

Word Formation Exercise 9
Exercise Number: CPE075

Exam Tip!

Read the entire text/sentence to get a good idea of context. What "type" of word do you need? It's good practice to go through one of these exercises just thinking about "what category of word?" and "positive or negative?" Is it a positive noun (competitiveness) or a negative adjective (unfriendly). Always be thinking in those terms and it will make the word formation part of the Use of English exam easier.

Word Formation Exercise 10
Exercise Number: CPE076

Word Formation Exercise 11
Exercise Number: CPE089

Word Formation Exercise 12
Exercise Number: CPE090

Word Formation Exercise 13
Exercise Number: CPE091

Word Formation Exercise 14
Exercise Number: CPE092

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