This lesson practises 30 C2 collocations on Economy & Trade. 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.
build on the success
The exporter hopes to build on the success of last year's trade mission.
bumper crop
Favourable weather produced a bumper crop of wheat for local growers.
steady growth
The region has enjoyed steady growth in renewable-energy jobs.
weighty matters
The committee focused on weighty matters such as debt and public spending.
push up costs
Rising shipping costs continue to push up costs for small importers.
boost consumer spending
Lower VAT on energy-efficient appliances could boost consumer spending this winter.
see off an opponent
The local producer managed to see off an opponent in the contest for the contract.
invest in the long-term
Pension funds should invest in the long-term rather than chase quick returns.
increase their stress levels
For many employees, long commutes increase their stress levels.
see a fall
The construction sector may see a fall in demand after interest rates rise.
focus groups
The retailer used focus groups to test reactions to the new packaging.
steer the economy
Central banks use interest rates to steer the economy through periods of inflation.
experience a fall
The sector may experience a fall in export orders if tariffs increase.
highly valued
In an economic policy briefing, the economic outlook was highly valued.
bear in mind
In the economic briefing, the minister asked investors to bear in mind the current risks.
reduce trade barriers
The agreement aims to reduce trade barriers between the two markets.
endless supply
No company has an endless supply of capital to absorb rising costs.
thriving industry
The port supports a thriving industry in seafood processing.
increase output
The factory installed new machinery to increase output without adding extra shifts.
experience a rise
Households often experience a rise in bills when fuel prices climb.
idle chatter
Some idle chatter about rumours delayed the start of the trade talks.
stimulate growth
Investment in transport can stimulate growth across poorer regions.
make a difference
A small tax cut can make a difference to families on low incomes.
go down in history
The 2008 financial crisis will go down in history as a turning point.
pass a milestone
The exporter hopes to pass a milestone when annual sales reach one million euros.
of great importance
Reliable evidence is of great importance in a criminal trial.
current economic climate
In the current economic climate, many firms are delaying expansion.
meet with success
The regional scheme could meet with success because it matches local skills.
demand an explanation
Shareholders will demand an explanation for the sudden fall in revenue.
pursued his interests
The investor pursued his interests through ethical funds.