Functional Language For C2 Proficiency
Page 2
Achieve true proficiency with this C2 Mastery Functional Language guide. This page explores the subtleties of the English language, including rhetorical devices, the use of irony, and how to assert authority in formal debates. Select a function from the Table of Contents below to get started, or follow the links to Page 1 and Page 3 for the full mastery syllabus.
Jump to a section:
Giving Clarification
- To be explicit...
- Allow me to articulate this more clearly.
- Put simply, albeit reductively...
- The crux of the argument is...
Example Context
Student:
I am struggling with your theory on macroeconomics.
Prof:
It is complex. Put simply, albeit reductively, it suggests that saving hurts growth.
Student:
So we should spend everything?
Prof:
No. Allow me to articulate this more clearly. We should balance saving with investment.
Apologising
- I offer my unreserved contrition.
- Words cannot express my remorse.
- I must account for my shortcomings.
- It was an egregious error.
Example Context
Politician:
The scandal has destroyed public trust.
Official:
I know. It was an egregious error of judgement.
Politician:
You will have to resign.
Official:
I understand. I offer my unreserved contrition to the public.
Accepting Apologies
- Let us speak no more of it.
- I harbour no ill will.
- We can consider the slate wiped clean.
- It is of no consequence.
Example Context
Rival:
I apologise for the insults I threw at you during the campaign.
Winner:
Politics is a rough game. I harbour no ill will.
Rival:
Thank you.
Winner:
Indeed. Let us speak no more of it. We have work to do.
Making Requests
- I would be indebted to you if...
- May I impose upon your kindness to...?
- I solicit your assistance in...
- Grant me the favour of...
Example Context
Scholar:
I am trying to access the restricted archives.
Librarian:
They are closed to the public.
Scholar:
I understand, but I would be indebted to you if you could make an exception for my research.
Librarian:
Well, perhaps I can allow you one hour.
Responding to Requests
- I am at your disposal.
- I fear I cannot accommodate that request.
- It would be my privilege.
- I am disinclined to acquiesce. (Formal refusal)
Example Context
Host:
Will you give the opening speech at the ceremony?
Guest:
It would be my privilege.
Host:
And could you also donate to the fund?
Guest:
On that matter, I fear I cannot accommodate that request. My funds are tied up.
Expressing Preferences
- I have a predilection for...
- It leaves me cold. (Dislike)
- I am impartial to...
- Given the alternative, I am compelled to choose...
Example Context
Critic:
Do you prefer modern art or classical?
Artist:
I have a predilection for the abstract expressionists.
Critic:
And realism?
Artist:
Frankly, it leaves me cold. It lacks imagination.
Describing People
- He is the epitome of...
- She possesses an indomitable spirit.
- He is somewhat idiosyncratic.
- She is notoriously... (e.g. difficult / unreliable)
Example Context
Biographer:
How would you describe the late Prime Minister?
Historian:
He was the epitome of a statesman. Dignified and stoic.
Biographer:
But he had enemies.
Historian:
Yes. He was somewhat idiosyncratic in his methods, which alienated people.
Describing Places and Things
- It is a veritable... (paradise / nightmare)
- It evokes a sense of...
- It is reminiscent of...
- It is starkly... (beautiful / contrasted)
Example Context
Writer:
Describe the library.
Poet:
It is a veritable labyrinth of books. It evokes a sense of awe.
Writer:
And the architecture?
Poet:
Gothic. It is reminiscent of a cathedral.
Interrupting
- If I might presume to interrupt...
- Forgive the intrusion, but...
- I must interject at this juncture.
- Allow me to cut in.
Example Context
Lecturer:
...and thus, history repeats itself in an endless cycle.
Student:
I must interject at this juncture.
Lecturer:
Go ahead.
Student:
Is that not a deterministic view that ignores human agency?
Expressing Feelings
- I am profoundly moved.
- I was seething with rage.
- It fills me with foreboding. (Fear)
- I am beside myself with... (grief / joy)
Example Context
Viewer:
What did you think of the opera?
Fan:
I am profoundly moved. The final aria was exquisite.
Viewer:
And the tragedy at the end?
Fan:
Heartbreaking. I am beside myself with sorrow for the characters.
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