This lesson practises 31 C2 collocations on Work & Careers. 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.
are prospects for
The adviser said that there are prospects for the applicant in the company.
considerable experience
She brings considerable experience of managing large teams.
land a job
She managed to land a job with a local design studio.
act as a referee
Her former manager agreed to act as a referee for the application.
take up office
The new director will take up office next month.
professional misconduct
The investigation found no evidence of professional misconduct.
resign from office
The minister chose to resign from office after the inquiry.
hand in their resignation
Two managers chose to hand in their resignation after the merger was announced.
burst into laughter
The audience burst into laughter when the comedian missed the cue.
relieve the employee of their duties
The board decided to relieve the employee of their duties pending an investigation.
broaden professional expertise
The secondment will help him broaden professional expertise in procurement.
take priority over
Family commitments may take priority over the new role.
provide a reference for the applicant
Her supervisor agreed to provide a reference for the applicant.
consummate professional
Even under pressure, she remained a consummate professional.
with good qualifications
With good qualifications, the applicant was shortlisted for the post.
narrow the list down
The hiring panel had to narrow the list down to three candidates.
walk straight into a job
Graduates rarely walk straight into a job without relevant experience.
negotiate a remuneration package
Senior candidates may negotiate a remuneration package before accepting the post.
interpersonal skills
Good interpersonal skills are essential in a client-facing role.
handle a difficult situation
The supervisor knew how to handle a difficult situation without escalating it.
shirk responsibilities
Managers should not shirk responsibilities when a problem arises.
well qualified
The applicants were well qualified for the technical role.
wrongfully dismiss
The tribunal found that the company had wrongfully dismissed the employee.
hold a position
She continues to hold a position in the finance team.
get the sack
The worker feared that he would get the sack for repeated lateness.
take industrial action
Staff may take industrial action if negotiations fail.
get their priorities right
Managers must get their priorities right when resources are limited.
fast-track scheme
The firm created a fast-track scheme for high-potential graduates.
move up the ladder
She hopes to move up the ladder into management.
accumulate experience
Junior staff accumulate experience by working alongside senior colleagues.
fit the job description
Her background seems to fit the job description perfectly.