PTE-Style Reading & Writing: Fill in the Blanks

Practice Sets Using Collocations

Set 1: The Business Merger

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct verb form for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The two technology firms officially announced their merger yesterday. Currently, the legal teams __________ (1) the final documents to ensure compliance. This merger process __________ (2) almost two years ago, but the boards __________ (3) a mutual agreement only last week. By the end of this fiscal year, the new entity __________ (4) over 15,000 employees worldwide. For the past six months, analysts __________ (5) the potential impact of this union on global markets.

Options:

1. A) review / B) are reviewing / C) have reviewed / D) will review

2. A) begins / B) was beginning / C) began / D) had begun

3. A) reach / B) reached / C) have reached / D) were reaching

4. A) will have / B) will have had / C) have / D) are having

5. A) analyze / B) analyzed / C) have been analyzing / D) will analyze

Answers & Explanations for Set 1

1. Answer: B) are reviewing

o Tense: Present Continuous

o Why: Currently indicates an action happening around the present time. Therefore, are reviewing is correct.

2. Answer: C) began

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Two years ago refers to a definite completed time in the past. Therefore, we use the Simple Past: began.

3. Answer: B) reached

o Tense: Simple Past

o Why: Last week is a finished period in the past. Therefore, reached is correct.

4. Answer: A) will have

o Tense: Simple Future

o Why: By the end of this fiscal year refers to a future point. The sentence describes the number of employees the new entity will have at that time: will have.

5. Answer: C) have been analyzing

o Tense: Present Perfect Continuous

o Why: For the past six months shows duration from the past up to the present. The continuous form emphasizes the ongoing activity: have been analyzing.

Set 2: The Climate Summit

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
World leaders __________ (1) at the annual climate summit in Geneva this week to address the growing environmental crisis. Scientists have __________ __________ (2) evidence that global temperatures are rising at an alarming rate. Many developing nations __________ the responsibility to reduce emissions, arguing that industrialized countries should take the lead. The summit organizers __________ (4) a comprehensive action plan by the end of the conference. Environmental activists __________ (5) the lack of concrete commitments from major polluting nations.

Options:

1. A) made a decision / B) took a decision / C) did a decision / D) had a decision

2. A) made / B) taken / C) provided / D) produced

3. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) have

4. A) are making / B) are doing / C) are taking / D) are having

5. A) have been making / B) have been doing / C) have been taking / D) have been having

Answers & Explanations for Set 2

1. Answer: B) took a decision

Collocation: take a decision (more common in British English) OR make a decision (more common in American English)
Why: In formal contexts, especially in British English, "take a decision" is the preferred collocation. The context of world leaders at a summit suggests formal language.

2. Answer: C) provided

Collocation: provided evidence
Why: "Provide evidence" is a strong academic collocation. While scientists could "make" or "produce" evidence, "provided" pairs naturally with "evidence" in formal/scientific writing.

3. Answer: C) take

Collocation: take responsibility
Why: "Take responsibility" is the standard collocation. You cannot "make responsibility," "do responsibility," or "have responsibility" in this context.

4. Answer: A) are making

Collocation: make a plan
Tense: Present Continuous (are making)
Why: "Make a plan" is the correct collocation. The present continuous is used because the action is happening during the conference period (by the end of the conference).

5. Answer: A) have been making

Collocation: make complaints/statements
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Make" collocates with complaints/statements. The continuous tense emphasizes the ongoing nature of the activists' actions leading up to the present.

Set 3: Healthcare Reform

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The government's new healthcare policy has __________ (1) a __________ (2) impact on the national health system. Hospital administrators __________ (3) the reform for the past two years, but they __________ (4) significant challenges in implementation. The Minister of Health __________ (5) that the changes will improve patient care nationwide.

Options:

1. A) done / B) made / C) taken / D) had

2. A) strong / B) heavy / C) powerful / D) deep

3. A) have prepared for / B) have prepared / C) are preparing for / D) prepared

4. A) are having / B) are making / C) are taking / D) are doing

5. A) made a promise / B) did a promise / C) took a promise / D) had a promise

Answers & Explanations for Set 3

1. Answer: B) made

Collocation: make an impact
Why: "Make an impact" is the standard collocation. You can also "have an impact," but "made" fits the sentence structure with "has...impact."

2. Answer: A) strong

Collocation: strong impact
Why: "Strong impact" is a common collocation. While "powerful" might seem similar, "strong impact" is the more established pairing in academic writing.

3. Answer: C) are preparing for

Collocation: prepare for + object
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Prepare for" means to make ready for something. The continuous tense (have been preparing for) would also work, but "are preparing for" is acceptable as it emphasizes current ongoing preparation.

4. Answer: A) are having

Collocation: have challenges
Why: "Have challenges" or "face challenges" are both correct. "Are having" fits the progressive tense needed here.

5. Answer: A) made a promise

Collocation: make a promise
Why: "Make a promise" is the fixed collocation. You cannot "do," "take," or "have" a promise in standard English.

Set 4: Academic Research

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
Researchers at the university __________ (1) a __________ (2) study on the effects of social media on mental health. The findings __________ (3) __________ (4) evidence that excessive screen time leads to increased anxiety in young adults. The research team __________ (5) their findings at an international conference next month. This study __________ (6) a significant contribution to the field of digital psychology.

Options:

1. A) did / B) made / C) conducted / D) took

2. A) comprehensive / B) large / C) big / D) wide

3. A) do / B) make / C) take / D) provide

4. A) evidence / B) information / C) proof / D) fact

5. A) are delivering / B) are doing / C) are making / D) are taking

6. A) does / B) makes / C) takes / D) has

Answers & Explanations for Set 4

1. Answer: C) conducted

Collocation: conduct a study
Why: "Conduct a study" is the standard academic collocation. While "do a study" is possible, "conduct" is more formal and appropriate for academic writing.

2. Answer: A) comprehensive

Collocation: comprehensive study
Why: "Comprehensive study" is a common collocation in research contexts. It means thorough and complete.

3. Answer: D) provide

Collocation: provide evidence
Why: "Provide evidence" is the standard collocation in academic writing. The findings provide or offer evidence.

4. Answer: A) evidence

Collocation: provide evidence
Why: "Evidence" naturally follows the verb "provide" in academic writing.

5. Answer: A) are delivering

Collocation: deliver a presentation
Tense: Present Continuous (future meaning)
Why: "Deliver a presentation" is the correct collocation for academic presentations. The present continuous is used for future arrangements.

6. Answer: B) makes

Collocation: make a contribution
Why: "Make a contribution" is the fixed collocation. You cannot "do" or "take" a contribution in standard English.

Set 5: Business Strategy

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The company __________ (1) a new marketing strategy to __________ (2) its market share. The CEO __________ (3) the importance of innovation in yesterday's meeting. Employees __________ (4) training sessions for the past three weeks to prepare for the new initiative. The board __________ (5) a final decision on the expansion plan by next Friday.

Options:

1. A) is doing / B) is developing / C) is making / D) is taking

2. A) gain / B) make / C) do / D) take

3. A) emphasized / B) made emphasis on / C) did emphasis / D) took emphasis

4. A) are attending / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

5. A) is making / B) is doing / C) is taking / D) will make

Answers & Explanations for Set 5

1. Answer: B) is developing

Collocation: develop a strategy
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Develop a strategy" is the correct business collocation. It suggests the strategy is being created now.

2. Answer: A) gain

Collocation: gain market share
Why: "Gain market share" is a fixed business collocation. You cannot "make," "do," or "take" market share.

3. Answer: A) emphasized

Collocation: emphasize importance
Tense: Simple Past
Why: "Emphasize the importance" is a strong collocation. The past tense is used because of "yesterday's meeting."

4. Answer: A) are attending

Collocation: attend training sessions
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous (for the duration)
Why: "Attend sessions" is the correct collocation. The present perfect continuous (have been attending) would also be correct, but "are attending" works as a present activity.

5. Answer: D) will make

Collocation: make a decision
Why: "Make a decision" is the standard collocation. The future tense is used because of "by next Friday."

Set 6: Education Policy

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The new education policy __________ (1) a __________ (2) change in the country's academic system. Students __________ (3) to __________ (4) more responsibility for their own learning. Teachers __________ (5) additional training to implement the new curriculum effectively.

Options:

1. A) does / B) makes / C) takes / D) represents

2. A) large / B) big / C) significant / D) heavy

3. A) are required / B) are made / C) are taken / D) are done

4. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) have

5. A) are receiving / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

Answers & Explanations for Set 6

1. Answer: D) represents

Collocation: represent a change
Why: "Represent a change" is a strong collocation. While "makes a change" is possible in other contexts, "represents" is more appropriate for a policy document describing its own impact.

2. Answer: C) significant

Collocation: significant change
Why: "Significant change" is a common academic collocation. It means important or noteworthy.

3. Answer: A) are required

Collocation: be required to + verb
Why: This is a grammatical structure. Students are required to do something. This pairs with "take responsibility" in the next blank.

4. Answer: C) take

Collocation: take responsibility
Why: "Take responsibility" is the fixed collocation. This is one of the most common academic collocations.

5. Answer: A) are receiving

Collocation: receive training
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Receive training" is the correct collocation. Teachers are receiving (getting) additional training.

Set 7: Environmental Science

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
Scientists __________ (1) a __________ (2) solution to reduce plastic waste in oceans. The research team __________ (3) extensive experiments over the past year. Environmental groups __________ (4) the government to __________ (5) action on the issue.

Options:

1. A) are developing / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

2. A) long-lasting / B) long-term / C) long-time / D) long-range

3. A) did / B) made / C) conducted / D) took

4. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) urge

5. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) have

Answers & Explanations for Set 7

1. Answer: A) are developing

Collocation: develop a solution
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Develop a solution" is the correct collocation. It implies the solution is in progress.

2. Answer: B) long-term

Collocation: long-term solution
Why: "Long-term solution" is a common collocation. It means a solution that will work for a long time.

3. Answer: C) conducted

Collocation: conduct experiments
Tense: Simple Past
Why: "Conduct experiments" is the standard academic collocation. The past tense is used because of "over the past year."

4. Answer: D) urge

Collocation: urge someone to do something
Why: "Urge" is a verb that means strongly encourage. It pairs with the next blank where action is needed.

5. Answer: C) take

Collocation: take action
Why: "Take action" is the fixed collocation. You cannot "make," "do," or "have" action in this context.

Set 8: Technology Innovation

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The tech startup __________ (1) a revolutionary app that __________ (2) the way people communicate online. Investors __________ (3) the company's growth potential for several months. The development team __________ (4) a major breakthrough in artificial intelligence last quarter. By 2027, the company __________ (5) over 500 million active users worldwide.

Options:

1. A) has developed / B) has done / C) has made / D) has taken

2. A) makes change / B) changes / C) does change / D) takes change

3. A) have been evaluating / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

4. A) did / B) made / C) took / D) had

5. A) will have / B) will make / C) will do / D) will take

Answers & Explanations for Set 8

1. Answer: A) has developed

Collocation: develop an app
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Develop" is the correct verb for creating software. Present perfect shows the app exists now as a result of past work.

2. Answer: B) changes

Collocation: change the way
Why: "Change the way" is a natural collocation. You cannot "make," "do," or "take" the way people communicate.

3. Answer: A) have been evaluating

Collocation: evaluate potential
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "For several months" indicates an ongoing action from past to present.

4. Answer: B) made

Collocation: make a breakthrough
Tense: Simple Past
Why: "Make a breakthrough" is the standard collocation. "Last quarter" indicates a completed past time.

5. Answer: A) will have

Collocation: have users
Tense: Simple Future
Why: "By 2027" refers to a future point. The company will have (possess) users at that time.

Set 9: Economic Development

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The government __________ (1) a new economic policy to __________ (2) the country's growth. The central bank __________ (3) interest rates three times this year. Many experts __________ (4) that inflation will __________ (5) a serious threat to the economy.

Options:

1. A) has introduced / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

2. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) boost

3. A) has made / B) has raised / C) has done / D) has taken

4. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) predict

5. A) make / B) do / C) pose / D) take

Answers & Explanations for Set 9

1. Answer: A) has introduced

Collocation: introduce a policy
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Introduce a policy" is the correct collocation. The government announces and implements new policies.

2. Answer: D) boost

Collocation: boost growth
Why: "Boost growth" means to increase or stimulate economic growth. It's a common economic collocation.

3. Answer: B) has raised

Collocation: raise interest rates
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Raise interest rates" is the standard economic collocation. "Three times this year" suggests present perfect.

4. Answer: D) predict

Collocation: predict that
Why: Experts predict future events. This creates a complete sentence with "that."

5. Answer: C) pose

Collocation: pose a threat
Why: "Pose a threat" is a strong collocation. Threats are posed (presented) by situations.

Set 10: Medical Research

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
Medical researchers __________ (1) a new vaccine that __________ (2) protection against multiple virus strains. Clinical trials __________ (3) promising results since they began last year. The research team __________ (4) their findings to the medical community next month. This development __________ (5) a significant step forward in the fight against infectious diseases.

Options:

1. A) have created / B) have made / C) have done / D) have taken

2. A) makes / B) does / C) takes / D) provides

3. A) have been producing / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

4. A) are presenting / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

5. A) does / B) makes / C) takes / D) represents

Answers & Explanations for Set 10

1. Answer: A) have created

Collocation: create a vaccine
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Create a vaccine" is more natural than "make" in this scientific context. The vaccine now exists.

2. Answer: D) provides

Collocation: provide protection
Why: "Provide protection" is a standard collocation in medical writing. Vaccines provide protection against diseases.

3. Answer: A) have been producing

Collocation: produce results
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Produce results" is the correct collocation. Trials have been giving/showing results since last year.

4. Answer: A) are presenting

Collocation: present findings
Tense: Present Continuous (future meaning)
Why: "Present findings" is the standard academic collocation. "Next month" indicates a future arrangement.

5. Answer: D) represents

Collocation: represent a step
Why: "Represent a step" is a formal academic collocation. The development signifies or constitutes progress.

Set 11: Corporate Governance

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The board of directors __________ (1) a meeting to __________ (2) the company's annual budget. The CFO __________ (3) a detailed financial report during the session. Shareholders __________ (4) concerns about the declining profit margins. The management team __________ (5) cost-cutting measures to improve performance.

Options:

1. A) is making / B) is holding / C) is doing / D) is taking

2. A) make / B) do / C) approve / D) take

3. A) did / B) made / C) presented / D) took

4. A) have been expressing / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

5. A) is implementing / B) is making / C) is doing / D) is taking

Answers & Explanations for Set 11

1. Answer: B) is holding

Collocation: hold a meeting
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Hold a meeting" is the standard collocation. You can also "call" or "schedule" a meeting.

2. Answer: C) approve

Collocation: approve a budget
Why: "Approve a budget" is a business collocation. The board gives official approval to the budget.

3. Answer: C) presented

Collocation: present a report
Tense: Simple Past
Why: "Present a report" is the standard collocation. The CFO gave the report during the session.

4. Answer: A) have been expressing

Collocation: express concerns
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Express concerns" is a strong collocation. Shareholders have been voicing their worries.

5. Answer: A) is implementing

Collocation: implement measures
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Implement measures" means to put measures into action. It's a formal business collocation.

Set 12: Educational Reform

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The education department __________ (1) a __________ (2) reform of the national curriculum. Teachers __________ (3) the changes for the upcoming academic year. Students will __________ (4) new assessment methods starting next semester. The reform __________ (5) __________ significant improvements in student performance.

Options:

1. A) is making / B) is doing / C) is taking / D) is planning

2. A) large / B) major / C) big / D) wide

3. A) are preparing for / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

4. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) experience

5. A) is expected to bring / B) is made to bring / C) is taken to bring / D) is done to bring

Answers & Explanations for Set 12

1. Answer: D) is planning

Collocation: plan a reform
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Plan a reform" is a natural collocation. The department is in the process of designing the reform.

2. Answer: B) major

Collocation: major reform
Why: "Major reform" is a common collocation. It means significant and important reform.

3. Answer: A) are preparing for

Collocation: prepare for changes
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Prepare for" is the correct phrase. Teachers are getting ready for the academic year.

4. Answer: D) experience

Collocation: experience methods
Why: "Experience" collocates with assessment methods. Students will go through new assessment processes.

5. Answer: A) is expected to bring

Collocation: expect to bring improvements
Why: "Is expected to bring" is a formal construction. The reform is anticipated to result in improvements.

Set 13: Environmental Conservation

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
Conservationists __________ (1) a __________ (2) campaign to protect endangered species. The organization __________ (3) __________ (4) funds for wildlife preservation over the past decade. Local communities __________ (5) __________ (6) an important role in the conservation effort. The new reserve __________ (7) a safe habitat for numerous rare animals.

Options:

1. A) are conducting / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

2. A) large / B) major / C) extensive / D) big

3. A) has been collecting / B) has been making / C) has been doing / D) has been taking

4. A) funds / B) money / C) resources / D) donations

5. A) do / B) make / C) take / D) play

6. A) a / B) an / C) the / D) —

7. A) does / B) makes / C) provides / D) takes

Answers & Explanations for Set 13

1. Answer: A) are conducting

Collocation: conduct a campaign
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Conduct a campaign" is a formal collocation. Campaigns are run or conducted.

2. Answer: C) extensive

Collocation: extensive campaign
Why: "Extensive campaign" is a strong collocation. It means a campaign that covers a large area or involves many activities.

3. Answer: A) has been collecting

Collocation: collect funds
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Collect funds" is the correct collocation. "Over the past decade" indicates a continuing action.

4. Answer: A) funds

Collocation: collect funds
Why: "Collect funds" is the natural phrase in the context of raising money for wildlife preservation.

5. Answer: D) play

Collocation: play a role
Why: "Play a role" is the fixed collocation. You cannot "make," "do," or "take" a role in this context.

6. Answer: A) a

Grammar: play a role
Why: The singular countable noun "role" requires the article "a."

7. Answer: C) provides

Collocation: provide habitat
Why: "Provide habitat" is a natural collocation. The reserve gives/offers a home to animals.

Set 14: International Relations

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The two nations __________ (1) a peace treaty to __________ (2) their diplomatic relations. The foreign ministers __________ (3) negotiations for the past six months. The agreement __________ (4) a new era of cooperation between the countries. The United Nations __________ (5) __________ (6) the peace process.

Options:

1. A) have made / B) have done / C) have taken / D) have signed

2. A) make / B) do / C) restore / D) take

3. A) have been conducting / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

4. A) makes / B) does / C) takes / D) marks

5. A) has been supporting / B) has been making / C) has been doing / D) has been taking

6. A) — / B) actively / C) highly / D) strongly

Answers & Explanations for Set 14

1. Answer: D) have signed

Collocation: sign a treaty
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Sign a treaty" is the standard diplomatic collocation. Nations sign formal agreements.

2. Answer: C) restore

Collocation: restore relations
Why: "Restore diplomatic relations" is a common political collocation. It means to bring back normal relations.

3. Answer: A) have been conducting

Collocation: conduct negotiations
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Conduct negotiations" is the formal collocation. "For the past six months" indicates ongoing activity.

4. Answer: D) marks

Collocation: mark an era
Why: "Mark an era" is a collocation meaning to signify or represent a new period.

5. Answer: A) has been supporting

Collocation: support a process
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Support the peace process" is a natural collocation. The UN has been backing this initiative.

6. Answer: A) —

Why: "Support the peace process" is already a complete verb phrase; no additional adverb is necessary.

Set 15: Urban Development

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The city council __________ (1) a __________ (2) project to revitalize the downtown area. The construction __________ (3) significant traffic congestion in the past few months. Urban planners __________ (4) the impact of the development on local communities. The project __________ (5) __________ create 5,000 new jobs upon completion.

Options:

1. A) has approved / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

2. A) large / B) major / C) big / D) huge

3. A) has caused / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

4. A) have been studying / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

5. A) is expected to / B) is made to / C) is taken to / D) is done to

Answers & Explanations for Set 15

1. Answer: A) has approved

Collocation: approve a project
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Approve a project" is a government collocation. The council has given official permission.

2. Answer: B) major

Collocation: major project
Why: "Major project" is a common collocation. It indicates a large and important project.

3. Answer: A) has caused

Collocation: cause congestion
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Cause congestion" is a natural collocation. Traffic issues are caused by construction.

4. Answer: A) have been studying

Collocation: study impact
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Study the impact" is a formal collocation. Planners have been examining the effects.

5. Answer: A) is expected to

Collocation: expect to create
Why: "Is expected to" is a common formal construction. The project is anticipated to create jobs.

Set 16: Social Media

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
Social media platforms __________ (1) __________ (2) a __________ (3) impact on modern communication. Users __________ (4) __________ (5) concerns about privacy for years. The companies __________ (6) new features to __________ (7) user engagement.

Options:

1. A) have been having / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

2. A) — / B) had / C) made / D) taken

3. A) strong / B) heavy / C) powerful / D) profound

4. A) have been expressing / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

5. A) — / B) serious / C) heavy / D) deep

6. A) are developing / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

7. A) increase / B) make / C) do / D) take

Answers & Explanations for Set 16

1. Answer: A) have been having

Collocation: have an impact
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Have an impact" is a standard collocation. The continuous form emphasizes ongoing effect.

2. Answer: A) —

Why: The verb "have" is followed directly by the noun phrase "a profound/strong impact"; no additional word is needed.

3. Answer: D) profound

Collocation: profound impact
Why: "Profound impact" is a strong collocation. It means deep and significant effect.

4. Answer: A) have been expressing

Collocation: express concerns
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Express concerns" is a natural collocation. "For years" indicates ongoing expression.

5. Answer: B) serious

Collocation: serious concerns
Why: "Serious concerns" is a natural and common phrase, especially in discussions of privacy and security.

6. Answer: A) are developing

Collocation: develop features
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Develop features" is the correct collocation for creating new platform functions.

7. Answer: A) increase

Collocation: increase engagement
Why: "Increase engagement" is a common digital marketing collocation. It means to make engagement grow.

Set 17: Public Health

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The health authorities __________ (1) a __________ (2) public awareness campaign about healthy eating. The campaign __________ (3) __________ positive results since its launch. Doctors __________ (4) a __________ (5) increase in diet-related illnesses among young people.

Options:

1. A) have launched / B) have made / C) have done / D) have taken

2. A) large / B) major / C) widespread / D) big

3. A) has been producing / B) has been making / C) has been doing / D) has been taking

4. A) have reported / B) have made / C) have done / D) have taken

5. A) strong / B) significant / C) heavy / D) powerful

Answers & Explanations for Set 17

1. Answer: A) have launched

Collocation: launch a campaign
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Launch a campaign" is the correct collocation. Public health campaigns are launched.

2. Answer: C) widespread

Collocation: widespread campaign
Why: "Widespread campaign" means a campaign that reaches many people. It's a natural collocation.

3. Answer: A) has been producing

Collocation: produce results
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Produce results" is a strong collocation. "Since its launch" indicates ongoing progress.

4. Answer: A) have reported

Collocation: report an increase
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Report an increase" is a formal collocation. Doctors have documented this trend.

5. Answer: B) significant

Collocation: significant increase
Why: "Significant increase" is a common academic collocation. It means an important/notable increase.

Set 18: Financial Markets

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
Stock markets __________ (1) __________ (2) a __________ (3) decline over the past week. Investors __________ (4) __________ (5) concerns about rising inflation. The central bank __________ (6) measures to __________ (7) market stability.

Options:

1. A) have been experiencing / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

2. A) — / B) experienced / C) made / D) taken

3. A) large / B) major / C) sharp / D) big

4. A) have been expressing / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

5. A) — / B) serious / C) heavy / D) deep

6. A) has implemented / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

7. A) make / B) do / C) ensure / D) take

Answers & Explanations for Set 18

1. Answer: A) have been experiencing

Collocation: experience a decline
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Experience a decline" is a financial collocation. Markets have been going through a drop.

2. Answer: A) —

Why: The verb phrase "have been experiencing" is directly followed by the noun phrase "a sharp decline."

3. Answer: C) sharp

Collocation: sharp decline
Why: "Sharp decline" is a common financial collocation. It means a sudden and steep drop.

4. Answer: A) have been expressing

Collocation: express concerns
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Express concerns" is a natural collocation. Investors have been voicing worries.

5. Answer: A) —

Why: "Express concerns" is already a complete collocation, so no additional word is required.

6. Answer: A) has implemented

Collocation: implement measures
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Implement measures" means to put measures into effect. It's a formal policy collocation.

7. Answer: C) ensure

Collocation: ensure stability
Why: "Ensure stability" is a strong collocation. The central bank wants to guarantee market stability.

Set 19: Academic Achievement

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
Students who __________ (1) __________ (2) attention in class __________ (3) better academic performance. Research __________ (4) a clear link between study habits and grades. The university __________ (5) support services to __________ (6) student success.

Options:

1. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) pay

2. A) — / B) close / C) much / D) serious

3. A) do / B) make / C) take / D) achieve

4. A) has shown / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

5. A) has introduced / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

6. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) promote

Answers & Explanations for Set 19

1. Answer: D) pay

Collocation: pay attention
Why: "Pay attention" is the fixed collocation. You cannot "make," "do," or "take" attention.

2. Answer: A) —

Why: The standard collocation is simply pay attention. No additional word is required.

3. Answer: D) achieve

Collocation: achieve performance
Why: "Achieve performance" is a natural academic collocation. Students get good results.

4. Answer: A) has shown

Collocation: show a link
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Show a link" is a common research collocation. Research has demonstrated the connection.

5. Answer: A) has introduced

Collocation: introduce services
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Introduce services" means to launch or start new offerings. It's a formal collocation.

6. Answer: D) promote

Collocation: promote success
Why: "Promote success" is a natural collocation. The university wants to encourage/foster student achievement.

Set 20: Climate Change Policy

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The international community __________ (1) to __________ (2) action on climate change. Developed nations __________ (3) __________ (4) a __________ (5) commitment to reduce emissions. The agreement __________ (6) a __________ (7) in international cooperation.

Options:

1. A) has agreed / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

2. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) have

3. A) have made / B) have done / C) have taken / D) have had

4. A) — / B) publicly / C) strongly / D) officially

5. A) strong / B) heavy / C) powerful / D) firm

6. A) makes / B) does / C) represents / D) takes

7. A) new era / B) new time / C) new age / D) new period

Answers & Explanations for Set 20

1. Answer: A) has agreed

Collocation: agree to take action
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Agree to" is a verb pattern. The community has reached consensus.

2. Answer: C) take

Collocation: take action
Why: "Take action" is the fixed collocation. You cannot "make," "do," or "have" action.

3. Answer: A) have made

Collocation: make a commitment
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Make a commitment" is the standard collocation. Nations have pledged to do something.

4. Answer: A) —

Why: The phrase "have made a firm commitment" is complete without an additional adverb.

5. Answer: D) firm

Collocation: firm commitment
Why: "Firm commitment" means a strong, unwavering pledge. It's a common diplomatic collocation.

6. Answer: C) represents

Collocation: represent a milestone
Why: "Represent" is used with significant achievements. The agreement signifies something important.

7. Answer: A) new era

Collocation: new era
Why: "New era" is the standard collocation for a new period of time. "New age" is possible but "new era" is more formal.

Set 21: Workplace Productivity

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The company __________ (1) a new system to __________ (2) employee productivity. Staff members __________ (3) __________ (4) training on the new software for the past two weeks. The management __________ (5) a __________ (6) improvement in work efficiency.

Options:

1. A) has implemented / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

2. A) increase / B) make / C) do / D) take

3. A) have been receiving / B) have been making / C) have been doing / D) have been taking

4. A) — / B) additional / C) heavy / D) deep

5. A) has reported / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

6. A) large / B) big / C) significant / D) heavy

Answers & Explanations for Set 21

1. Answer: A) has implemented

Collocation: implement a system
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Implement a system" means to put a system into operation. It's a formal business collocation.

2. Answer: A) increase

Collocation: increase productivity
Why: "Increase productivity" is a standard business collocation. The goal is to make productivity rise.

3. Answer: A) have been receiving

Collocation: receive training
Tense: Present Perfect Continuous
Why: "Receive training" is the correct collocation. "For the past two weeks" indicates ongoing activity.

4. Answer: A) —

Why: "Receive training" is already a complete collocation. No additional word is required.

5. Answer: A) has reported

Collocation: report an improvement
Tense: Present Perfect
Why: "Report an improvement" is a formal business collocation. Management has documented progress.

6. Answer: C) significant

Collocation: significant improvement
Why: "Significant improvement" is a common collocation. It means important and noticeable progress.

Set 22: Tourism Industry

Instructions: Read the passage and select the correct word/phrase for each blank from the options.

Passage:
The tourism industry __________ (1) a __________ (2) recovery after the pandemic. Travel agencies __________ (3) new packages to __________ (4) travelers. The government __________ (5) measures to support the sector's growth.

Options:

1. A) has made / B) has done / C) is experiencing / D) has taken

2. A) strong / B) heavy / C) powerful / D) deep

3. A) are offering / B) are making / C) are doing / D) are taking

4. A) make / B) do / C) take / D) attract

5. A) has introduced / B) has made / C) has done / D) has taken

Answers & Explanations for Set 22

1. Answer: C) is experiencing

Collocation: experience a recovery
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Experience a recovery" is a natural collocation. The industry is going through recovery now.

2. Answer: A) strong

Collocation: strong recovery
Why: "Strong recovery" is a common economic collocation. It means a vigorous recovery.

3. Answer: A) are offering

Collocation: offer packages
Tense: Present Continuous
Why: "Offer packages" is the correct collocation. Travel agencies are providing deals to customers.

4. Answer: D) attract

Collocation: attract travelers
Why: "Attract travelers" is a natural collocation. Companies want to draw in customers.

5. Answer: A) has introduced

Collocation: introduce measures
Why: "Introduce measures" means to start new policies. It's a formal government collocation.

Master Collocation List from All Sets

Verbs with Specific Objects

Verb	Object(s)	Example
develop	app, strategy, features	develop an app
make	decision, breakthrough, contribution, commitment, impact, plan	make a decision
take	action, responsibility, decision, care	take action
conduct	study, campaign, negotiations, research	conduct a study
provide	evidence, protection, habitat, service	provide evidence
implement	system, measures	implement a system
launch	campaign, product	launch a campaign
introduce	policy, measures, services	introduce a policy
hold	meeting	hold a meeting
present	findings, report	present a report
express	concerns	express concerns
pay	attention	pay attention
play	role	play a role
pose	threat	pose a threat
boost	growth	boost growth
raise	interest rates	raise interest rates
predict	future events	predict that...
create	vaccine	create a vaccine
produce	results	produce results
approve	budget, project	approve a budget
plan	reform	plan a reform
experience	recovery, decline	experience a recovery
restore	relations	restore relations
mark	an era	mark an era
study	impact	study the impact
report	increase, improvement	report an increase
ensure	stability	ensure stability
promote	success	promote success
offer	packages	offer packages
attract	travelers	attract travelers
increase	engagement, productivity	increase productivity
sign	treaty	sign a treaty
support	process	support the peace process
approve	project, budget	approve a project
implement	measures, system	implement measures
collect	funds	collect funds
provide	habitat	provide habitat
represent	change, step, milestone	represent a significant step

Study With BR Sir

Sunday, 16 August 2026

Practice Sets Using Collocations

Set 1: The Business Merger

Answers & Explanations for Set 1

Master Collocation List from All Sets

Verbs with Specific Objects

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25 Practice Sets with 5–6 Gaps (Moderate Length)

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