Collocations

Collocations are combinations of words that frequently occur together in a specific order, creating a natural-sounding expression in a given language. These word pairs or groups are more likely to be used by native speakers than other possible combinations of the same words. A thorough understanding of collocations is crucial for language learners, as it enhances fluency and allows for more natural speech and writing.

There are several types of collocations, including:

1. Verb + Noun: In this type of collocation, a verb is paired with a noun to create a specific meaning. Examples include "make a decision," "take a shower," and "perform an operation."
2. Adjective + Noun: This collocation type combines an adjective with a noun to describe a particular quality or characteristic. Examples include "strong coffee," "heavy rain," and "bright future."
3. Noun + Noun: In this collocation, two nouns are combined to create a compound noun, such as "kitchen table," "traffic jam," and "school bus."
4. Adverb + Adjective: This type of collocation pairs an adverb with an adjective to provide more detail or emphasis. Examples include "highly unlikely," "deeply concerned," and "fully aware."
5. Adverb + Verb: In this collocation, an adverb is used to modify a verb, such as "strongly believe," "quickly run," and "patiently wait."
6. Verb + Adverb: This type of collocation combines a verb with an adverb to describe the manner in which an action is performed. Examples include "speak softly," "work diligently," and "think critically."

Understanding and using collocations effectively can greatly improve a language learner's ability to communicate naturally and accurately. Recognizing these common word combinations is essential for developing fluency and enhancing comprehension in both spoken and written language.

Vocabulary for Upper Intermediate/B2 English Level

Vocabulary for Upper Intermediate/B2 English level refers to the set of words and phrases that learners at this level are expected to know and use in the language. These learners have a solid foundation of vocabulary and grammar and are able to communicate effectively in most situations. At this level, learners are expected to have a good command of a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures, and to be able to use them to express themselves in a clear and detailed way. They are also expected to understand and use more complex vocabulary and idiomatic expressions, such as phrasal verbs and collocations, to communicate nuanced ideas and express themselves in a more sophisticated way. Additionally, learners at this level are expected to have a good understanding of vocabulary related to a variety of topics such as work, school, leisure, and current events. They are also expected to be able to understand and use vocabulary from different specialized fields, such as business, science, and technology. B2 level learners are expected to have a very good command of the language, and this level is considered as the level of a proficient user of the language.

Vocabulary

Vocabulary in English language can be thought of as a toolbox that you use to express yourself and understand others. It's important to continue expanding and refining it. This means learning new words, phrases, and idiomatic expressions and understanding how to use them in different contexts. The more tools you have in your toolbox, the more effectively you can communicate and understand others. Having a broad vocabulary also allows you to understand and engage with more complex texts and ideas, giving you access to new information and opportunities. Additionally, having a strong vocabulary is essential for academic and professional success, as it allows you to express yourself clearly and persuasively in writing and speaking. Like a carpenter who continues to learn new tools and techniques to improve their craft, expanding your vocabulary is an ongoing process that will help you improve your communication skills.

B2 | Upper Intermediate

B2, or Upper Intermediate, is the fourth level on the CEFR scale. It marks the point where you move from "getting by" to genuinely comfortable communication — handling complex topics, expressing nuanced opinions, and understanding most of what you read or hear in real-world contexts.

What a B2 user can do

At this level, you're expected to:

• Understand complex texts on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in your own field.
• Follow extended speech and lectures, even when the structure isn't entirely clear, as long as the topic is reasonably familiar.
• Interact fluently and spontaneously enough that conversations with native speakers flow naturally — without strain on either side.
• Produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects, using connectors and cohesive devices to build well-structured arguments.
• Explain and defend a viewpoint on a topical issue, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of different options.
• Recognize implicit meaning — reading between the lines in demanding, longer texts.

What B2 grammar looks like in practice

B2 is where grammar stops being about isolated rules and starts being about flexibility and precision. You're expected to control structures like:

• Advanced conditionals and mixed conditionals — moving beyond simple if-clauses to express hypothetical and counterfactual meaning.
• Passive voice in varied tenses and contexts, not just present and past simple.
• Reported speech with correct sequence of tenses, including backshifting and reporting verbs.
• Participle clauses and the distinction between participles and gerunds.
• Comparative and superlative structures beyond basic -er/-est, including double comparatives and qualifying expressions.

Errors still happen at B2, but they rarely cause misunderstanding. The goal is controlled, flexible use of language across social, academic, and professional settings.

How B2 fits in the CEFR progression

B2 builds directly on the foundations of B1 (Intermediate) and prepares you for C1 (Advanced). Many university entrance exams, professional certifications, and immigration requirements target B2 as the minimum standard.

Self-check: If you can read a newspaper editorial, follow most of a TED talk without subtitles, and write a clear essay arguing a position — you're likely operating at B2.

Ready to test yourself? Try Is your English level B2/Upper Intermediate? or practise specific B2 grammar with challenges like Basics. Advanced Conditionals And "wish", Basics. Passive Voice, and Sequence of Tenses in Indirect Speech.

Difficulty: Easy

Easy difficulty. Difficulty levels represent author's opinion about how hard a question or challenge is.