This lesson practises 30 C2 collocations on Change, Cause & Effect. Collocations are fixed word pairings that native speakers expect — Cambridge examiners test them in Use of English Part 1 and reward precise lexis in Writing. Run through the interactive drills first, then open this glossary to revise every item in the set. For question-by-question feedback, use Review mode after you finish the session.
primary cause
The investigation identified poor ventilation as the primary cause of the outbreak.
change the subject
When the discussion became heated, the minister tried to change the subject.
bring back memories
Walking past the old neighbourhood can bring back memories of life before the redevelopment.
dramatic shift
The election produced a dramatic shift in public attitudes toward housing.
change radically
The transport network had to change radically after the bridge collapse.
change dramatically
After the new safety rules, the factory's working practices will change dramatically.
switch channels
After the satellite contract ended, many viewers chose to switch channels.
force for change
Affordable solar power has become a force for change in rural communities.
lay out the results
The report will lay out the results of the pilot scheme in a clear table.
violence erupts
Violence erupts after tensions rise in the city.
show an increase
The latest census results show an increase in single-person households.
feel the full effect
Residents began to feel the full effect of the water restrictions in late summer.
show a fall
The survey results show a fall in public confidence after the data breach.
see a rise
Hospitals may see a rise in admissions during the heatwave.
riot erupts
A riot erupts outside the courthouse after the verdict is announced.
root cause
The review found that outdated software was the root cause of the recurring failures.
have an effect on
Public opinion may have an effect on the proposed change to hospital services.
bring about significant change
The new law could bring about significant change in how waste is collected.
show a rise
The latest figures show a rise in apprenticeships across the region.
desired effect
The insulation programme had the desired effect of reducing energy use.
ill effects
Long-term exposure to fumes can have ill effects on children's health.
radical change
The reform represented a radical change in the way housing benefits were assessed.
stay the same
Despite the changes, the weekly timetable will stay the same until September.
have a knock-on effect
Closing the rail link could have a knock-on effect on local businesses.
sweeping change
The reform brought sweeping change to how benefits were assessed.
dramatic change
Remote work has brought dramatic change to daily commuting patterns.
lead to unintended consequences
A rushed policy can lead to unintended consequences for vulnerable families.
cause any trouble
The short delay should not cause any trouble for passengers.
make changes
After the consultation, officials agreed to make changes to the timetable.
sudden shift
The sudden shift in wind direction forced emergency crews to change their plans.