B2 grammar means grammar which B2 students have proven they can do. Therefore, B2 grammar might be of greatest interest to B1 ESL students since they are looking to gain grammar structures they may not have noticed or used yet. The B2 grammar on this page is based mostly on the English Grammar Profile. However, there are points also from Pearson’s global scale of English. We have started by being alphabetical with the categories, but then attempt to group similar grammar combinations. We will not be listing the same grammar point under different categories. For example, ‘adjective with conjunctions’ could be listed under the category of adjectives or conjunctions. For this reason, categories nearer the start of the alphabet: ‘Adjectives’ will seem larger. All our example sentences come from the real world. All examples are linked to more corpora information about the grammar structure and vocabulary that goes with it.
B2 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 Verbs
B2 students can use adjective complements after a wide range of linking verbs such as: ‘seem’, ‘taste’, ‘remain’, ‘appear’ etc.
- It seems obvious.
Modality
Starting at intermediate, B2 students 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.
- The rainfall activity is likely to continue till August 6.
Adjectives are commonly found after the negative modal verb construction ‘can’t or ‘cannot’ to make guesses, predictions or deductions:
- You can’t be serious.
Comparative 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.
Comparative clauses with possessive pronouns.
- In a state as diverse as ours, our students must see themselves in their classrooms and instructional materials.
- I think my level was a lot higher than hers in the first set.
Comparative adjectives with non-finite clauses.
Notice the non-finite past participle ‘expected’ and infinitive ‘to rent’.
- The numbers are higher than expected.
- It may now be cheaper to buy than to rent.