Functional Language For C2 Proficiency
Page 1
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 2 and Page 3 for the full mastery syllabus.
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Asking for Opinions
- I'd value your appraisal of...
- Where do you stand on the matter of...?
- What is your stance regarding...?
- How do you interpret...?
Example Context
Host:
The proposed legislation is unprecedented.
Guest:
It certainly changes the landscape of the industry.
Host:
Professor, I'd value your appraisal of the long-term economic impact.
Guest:
Well, frankly, I believe the consequences could be catastrophic.
Giving Opinions
- It is my contention that...
- I am firmly of the opinion that...
- As I see it...
- I would argue that...
Example Context
Debater:
Some say that space exploration is a luxury we cannot afford.
Scientist:
That is short-sighted. It is my contention that the technological spin-offs alone justify the cost.
Debater:
But what about poverty here on Earth?
Scientist:
I am firmly of the opinion that we can address both issues simultaneously.
Expressing Agreement
- I wholeheartedly endorse that sentiment.
- You have hit the nail on the head. (Idiom)
- We are entirely on the same page.
- I couldn't have put it better myself.
Example Context
Critic:
The film lacked any real emotional depth.
Viewer:
Precisely. It was all style and no substance.
Critic:
And the dialogue was atrocious.
Viewer:
I couldn't have put it better myself. It was painful to watch.
Expressing Disagreement
- I find that argument somewhat tenuous.
- I must vehemently disagree with...
- That is simply preposterous. (Strong)
- We are miles apart on this issue. (Idiom)
Example Context
Politician:
This tax cut will benefit the working class.
Opponent:
I find that argument somewhat tenuous. The data suggests the opposite.
Politician:
The data is misleading.
Opponent:
That is simply preposterous. These are government statistics!
Making Suggestions
- I would venture to suggest...
- It might be prudent to...
- I propose that we...
- We would do well to consider...
Example Context
Board:
The company is losing market share rapidly.
Advisor:
The situation is critical.
Board:
What is the solution?
Advisor:
I would venture to suggest a complete rebranding. It might be prudent to hire a new agency immediately.
Responding to Suggestions
- While it has its merits, I remain unconvinced.
- I endorse that proposal without reservation.
- That strikes me as a viable option.
- I have grave misgivings about that.
Example Context
Planner:
We could build the new highway through the forest to save money.
Official:
I have grave misgivings about that. The environmental impact would be severe.
Planner:
What if we built a tunnel instead?
Official:
Expensive, but that strikes me as a viable option.
Asking for Information
- I would appreciate some insight into...
- Could you divulge the details regarding...?
- I am seeking clarification on...
- Are you at liberty to say...?
Example Context
Reporter:
There are rumours of a merger with your rival.
CEO:
We are always exploring opportunities.
Reporter:
Are you at liberty to say whether talks have officially begun?
CEO:
No comment. However, I can divulge that we are in a strong financial position.
Asking for Advice
- I would value your counsel on this matter.
- How might one best proceed in this scenario?
- I am soliciting your expertise regarding...
- I am in a quandary over...
Example Context
Mentee:
I have been offered a position on the board.
Mentor:
Congratulations. That is a significant achievement.
Mentee:
However, it conflicts with my research. I would value your counsel on this matter.
Mentor:
It is a difficult choice. How might one best proceed without burning bridges?
Giving Advice
- It is incumbent upon you to...
- I would strongly caution against...
- You would be ill-advised to...
- I implore you to reconsider.
Example Context
Lawyer:
Do not sign this contract.
Client:
But the money is good.
Lawyer:
The liability clause is dangerous. You would be ill-advised to proceed.
Client:
I see.
Lawyer:
It is incumbent upon you to protect your intellectual property.
Asking for Clarification
- Am I to infer that...?
- Could you elucidate further on...?
- How exactly do you define...?
- I'm afraid the distinction eludes me.
Example Context
Speaker:
This policy is technically legal, though ethically ambiguous.
Questioner:
Am I to infer that you condone it?
Speaker:
Not condone, merely acknowledge.
Questioner:
I'm afraid the distinction eludes me. Is it right or wrong?
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