This lesson practises 30 C2 collocations on Plans, Decisions & Problem-solving. 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.
come up with an idea
We need to come up with an idea before the deadline.
bright idea
Using the spare room as a study area was a bright idea.
find a solution
The engineers are trying to find a solution to the drainage problem.
make an informed decision
Read the evidence carefully before you make an informed decision.
come up with a suggestion
The intern managed to come up with a suggestion that saved time.
call a halt to
The board voted to call a halt to the implementation plan after costs doubled.
laughable idea
Ignoring every warning was a laughable idea.
problem occurs
If a problem occurs, the technical team will investigate it immediately.
adopt a method
The researchers chose to adopt a method that could be repeated easily.
miss the point
You miss the point if you focus only on the cost.
slight change of plan
There has been a slight change of plan because the venue is unavailable.
easy option
Taking the shortcut seemed like the easy option, but it caused delays.
reach a decision
After two hours, the panel hoped to reach a decision.
in a straightforward way
The lecturer explained the complex idea in a straightforward way.
weigh up the options
Before signing, the family should weigh up the options.
make a proposal
The residents will make a proposal at the next meeting.
weighty problems
The committee faced weighty problems that required expert advice.
act on a suggestion
The team decided to act on a suggestion from the customer panel.
explore different ways
The project team explored different ways to reduce costs.
long-term solution
Insulation is a long-term solution to high energy costs.
address a problem
The first step is to address a problem before it becomes more expensive.
make plans
They need to make plans for the renovation before winter.
simultaneous equation
The class used a simultaneous equation to compare the two costs.
simple rule
A simple rule is to check the figures before you approve them.
draw up a schedule
The coordinator will draw up a schedule for the repair work.
deciding factor
Cost was the deciding factor when the committee chose a supplier.
problem arises
If a problem arises, the project team will contact the supplier.
stick to a schedule
The builders must stick to a schedule to finish before the rains.
generally speaking
Generally speaking, regular practice leads to better results.
wide choice
The tender gives the council a wide choice of suppliers.