Advanced (CAE) C1 key word transformations can be a huge challenge for students. These fixed expressions CAE transformations use expressions that can be difficult to remember. Fixed expressions like “make up your mind” or “taken aback” can pop up at C1 level and you need to be prepared not only to recognise them in a text, but also reproduce them in C1 Use of English Part 4. Use this fixed expressions transformations activity as an extra challenge after studying the fixed expressions found here.
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The importance of fixed expressions in C1 key word transformations
Key word transformations with fixed expressions can be especially challenging because you have to be incredibly accurate. A fixed expression like “keep an eye on something” isn’t necessarily difficult to understand. In fact, by C1 level, I would expect a C1 level student to barely notice it being used in a text or audio. However, in C1 key word transformations, not only does the candidate have to identify the correct expression, they also have to use it perfectly. If you change the determiner, preposition, plurality or other grammatical component, you won’t be getting that valuable point in the exam. This is precisely what makes them fixed expressions; they are fixed!
To learn how to go about key word transformations, check out our how to do key word transformations post.
Examples of fixed expressions found in C1 key word transformations
Here is a list of some common fixed expressions with their definitions:
make up your mind – Decide quickly and confidently
- “She can’t seem to make up her mind about whether to take the job or not.”
be taken aback – Surprised or shocked by something unexpected
- “He was taken aback when he heard the news of his best friend’s sudden accident.”
keep an eye on – Watch something or someone carefully
- “I’ll keep an eye on the baby while you run to the store.”
be fed up with – Tired or bored of something
- “I’m am fed up with all the traffic on the motorway every morning.”
come to terms with – Accept and deal with a difficult situation or reality
- “She’s still trying to come to terms with the loss of her husband.”
once and for all – finally and permanently, so that there will be no more discussion or argument about the matter
- “Let’s settle this argument once and for all.”
take advantage of – to make good use of an opportunity, or to benefit from a situation
- “She decided to take advantage of the good weather and go for a walk.”
break the news to – to inform someone of something, especially something unpleasant or unexpected
- “It was my responsibility to break the news to my boss about the project delay.”
in the long run – over a long period of time, looking at the future
- “A healthy lifestyle will benefit your overall well-being in the long run.”
in the short term – in the near future, focusing on the present or immediate future
- “The company may have to cut back on employee benefits in the short term to stay afloat.”
Consider how these fixed expressions could be used in another sentence. Can you write another example for each expression? Do any of the components change based on the subject/object of the sentence?
These transformations and many more are part of our book 230 Key Word Transformations for the Cambridge C1 Advanced (CAE) exam. The book is available as a digital download here on Breakout English or grab a physical paperback copy on Amazon.
GET 230 C1 ADVANCED (CAE) KEY WORD TRANSFORMATIONS:
If you are looking for more materials with fixed expressions, check here:
The Materials
Fixed expressions transformations are an essential aspect of preparing for the Advanced (CAE) level Cambridge exam. To help you prepare for this section, we have put together a resource with 10 key word transformations that use fixed expressions. This material provides an excellent opportunity for students to familiarise themselves with these fixed expressions and practice using them in context. Work through the exercises to build your confidence and improve your performance in the C1 Use of English Part 4.
EXAM PART: Use of English Part 4
EXAM SKILLS: Key word transformations
TIME: 20 minutes
PREPARATION: One copy of the worksheet per student
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