Competitive English Fill in the Blanks 2

Question 1

The swimmer ______ a new world record at the Olympic Games.

Accepted Answer

broke

Answer

"Break a record" is the fixed English collocation; records are always "broken," not cracked, shattered, or smashed.

Question 2

She has a natural ______ for painting and creates stunning artwork effortlessly.

Accepted Answer

flair

Answer

"Flair" means a natural talent or stylistic ability; "flare" refers to a burst of fire or light and is a very common spelling error.

Question 3

The new traffic law will ______ into effect starting next month.

Accepted Answer

come

Answer

"Come into effect" is the standard collocation meaning a law or rule becomes officially active and enforceable.

Question 4

She ______ a living by teaching English online to international students.

Accepted Answer

makes

Answer

"Make a living" is the standard idiom meaning to earn enough income to support oneself.

Question 5

After hours of deliberation, the board ______ a decision to merge with the smaller firm.

Accepted Answer

made

Answer

"Make a decision" is the standard American English collocation; decisions are "made," not "did" or "took."

Competitive English Practice Test