CPE Key Word Transformations

Index
For questions 1-6, complete the second sentence so that it has a similar meaning to the first sentence, using the word given. Do not change the word given. You must use between three and eight words, including the word given. You can use the "?" button to get a clue but by doing so you will lose points. EXAM DESCRIPTION
1) The whole truth didn't come out until after Martin's resignation.
THAT
It the whole truth came out.
2) We weren't at all surprised when we heard that Jason had been dismissed.
HEAR
It came Jason's dismissal.
3) The castle had been extensively restored and looked as good as new.
UNDERGONE
The castle and looked as good as new.
4) Many people believe that all plants are green, but they're wrong.
POPULAR
Contrary plants are green.
5) Things went wrong at once after his resignation.
HAD
Hardly things went wrong.
6) In spite of all my efforts, I couldn't persuade Shaun to come to the pub.
HOW
No matter Shaun into coming to the pub.

ANSWERS

show hide answer 1
WASN'T (WAS NOT) UNTIL AFTER MARTIN'S RESIGNATION THAT
EMPHASIS IT WASN'T UNTIL ... THAT ...
To create extra focus on time adjuncts, we can front them using a phrase 'it was not until':
It wasn't until I did my homework that I could go out.
show hide answer 2
AS NO SURPRISE TO US TO HEAR ABOUT (OF)
PHRASE COME AS A SURPRISE TO SOMEBODY
To make someone feel surprised:
The news will come as no surprise to her friends.
show hide answer 3
HAD UNDERGONE EXTENSIVE RESTORATION
VERB UNDERGO SOMETHING
To experience something, especially a change or something unpleasant:
My father underwent major surgery a few weeks ago.
show hide answer 4
TO POPULAR BELIEF NOT ALL
IDIOM CONTRARY TO POPULAR BELIEF
Something that you say before you make a statement that is the opposite of what most people believe :
Contrary to popular belief, women cause fewer road accidents than men.
show hide answer 5
HAD HE RESIGNED WHEN (BEFORE)
INVERSION HARDLY HAD ... WHEN/BEFORE ...
If the second event occurs immediately after the first, we can express that idea using the structure:
Hardly had she reached the bus stop when the bus came.
show hide answer 6
HOW HARD I TRIED, I COULDN'T (COULD NOT) TALK
CONCESSION NO MATTER + HOW + ADJECTIVE + SUBJECT + VERB
Used to emphasize that something is always true, or that someone must do something:
No matter how nice he may be, I don't like him.
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