B2 GRAMMAR
Adjectives
Adjectives with Conjunctions
The use of adjectives at B2 or upper-intermediate can be defined in one way as an increasing range of complex noun phrases with more than one adjective combined with ‘but’. This allows this level to add more contrast to what they are describing. An example of this from corpora is:
- He is in a serious but stable condition.
Adjectives with Adverbs
Another way adjectives are used by B2 English users is with adverbs such as ‘slightly’ or ‘much’ before a comparative adjective. That means they can be more subtle in the comparisons they can make. Notice that ‘much better’ is followed by a noun.
- The prices are slightly higher than they were last year.
- Those who start early will have a much better chance of meeting their goals.
Adjectives with Infinitives | Expressing Modality
Starting at intermediate, B2 users continue to use an adjective followed by an infinitive but with a greater range of adjectives and verbs. There is usually an element of modality expressed in the phrases too. Sometimes the structure can be used for hedging or making what you state more or less direct.
- He’s willing to return to the UFC.
- This law is necessary to ensure this does not happen again.
Comparative clauses with possessive pronouns.
- In a state as diverse as ours, our students must see themselves in their classrooms and instructional materials.
Here is a video that might help with B2 English Grammar and comparative adjectives:
Adverbs
This could help with B2 adverbs also:
Clauses
There is more information about noun clauses for B2 English Grammar here: