Use of English - Word Formation
C1
Cambridge English C1 Exam
For questions 1-8, read the text below. Use the word given in capitals to form a word that fits in the gap. Use only one word in each gap. Click the gaps to type your answer.
Thinking Clearly
In an age of constant information, the ability to think critically is no longer a luxury but a practical (0) NECESSITY. Without it, people may accept claims at face value and make decisions based on emotion rather than evidence. Critical thinking involves the careful (1) .......... (ANALYSE) of facts, the willingness to question assumptions, and the ability to remain (2) .......... (OBJECT) when faced with strong opinions. In education, these skills encourage students to become more (3) .......... (DEPEND) learners who can assess sources for themselves. In everyday life, they help us recognise (4) .......... (ACCURATE) statements and avoid being misled by sensational headlines. They are also essential in the workplace, where poor judgement can lead to costly (5) .......... (FAIL). Perhaps most importantly, critical thinking promotes (6) .......... (RESPOND) behaviour in public debate. Instead of reacting (7) .......... (IMPULSE), thoughtful individuals consider consequences and examine different perspectives. This does not guarantee perfect decisions, but it greatly reduces the (8) .......... (LIKELY) of serious error.
About Use of English Word Formation — Cambridge English C1
This Cambridge English C1 Use of English Word Formation exercise gives you a text with 8 gaps. Use the word in capitals at the end of each line to form a new word that fits the gap.
You may need to add prefixes or suffixes, change a word into a noun, adjective, adverb or verb, make a negative, or adjust the spelling. It tests both your knowledge of word families and the grammar of the sentence.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are in this C1 Word Formation exercise?
There are 8 gaps, each with a base word in capitals that you must change to fit.
What does Word Formation test?
Prefixes, suffixes and word families — turning a root word into the correct noun, adjective, adverb, verb or negative form.
How can I improve at Word Formation?
First decide which part of speech the gap needs, then form it — and always check for negatives (un-, in-, dis-) and plurals, which are easy to miss.
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What to do
For each gap you get one word in capitals which you have to change so the grammar and meaning fit in the sentence. Here you have to show how well you know word families and if you can change words by using prefixes and suffixes.
You need to read the whole text to get the writer’s opinion on the topic. That’s because sometimes a negative prefix will be required. There is usually at least one word requiring a negative prefix, so look out for these.
In the exam always write something. You never know, you might be lucky even if you are not sure of the answer!
Strategy
- Read the title and the whole text so that you understand what it is about.
- Look at each sentence in detail.
- Think about what kind of word you need and whether you need a negative prefix or a suffix.
- Read the sentence again to check whether you need a plural form.
- Check your spelling, as it must be correct.