REPHRASING

EXERCISES -

EXERCICES DE

TRADUCTION

INTRALINGUALE

Renaud Méry
 INTRODUCTION

The exercises presented in this teaching document are commonly known as "rephrasing" or
"rewording" exercises. Most of the time, we think of translation between different languages,
and that's Interlingual translation, a form of rephrasing which involves a source language L1
and a target language L2. However, rephrasing in one's own language, or as in this case in a
foreign language, is another form of translation - Intralingual translation - which is precisely
what these exercises are based upon. The fact is that many learners, when trying to speak a
foreign language, spontaneously indulge in some sort of Interlingual translation, yielding to
an instinctive tendency to translate from their own mother tongue, and not surprisingly, the
result is very often disappointing, awkward, unidiomatic (e.g. because of frequent cases of
word-for-word translation). The reason for such results is simply that Interlingual translation
is a difficult exercise : establishing correspondences between two different systems is a very
complex operation, especially when the target language is not familiar to you (which explains
why professional translators invariably translate into their native language).

What is recommended here is that learners should be encouraged to explore the system of the
foreign language from within, so they can become familiar with the semantic and syntactic
properties of all its elements and the way these can be combined to create meaning. A French-
speaking student who wants to learn English should leave aside for a time the grammar and
the lexicon of French so as to think in English, i.e. construct sequences of English words used
exclusively on the basis of their intrinsic properties and functions within the system of
English, without any reference to the system of French.

One might object that Intralingual translation is sterile, because it involves no creation of
meaning, the general rule of the game being precisely to preserve purely referential meaning
while changing syntactic structures, word order, grammatical or lexical elements etc. But the
reader will easily see that these exercises call for great creativity on the student's part, where
expression is concerned. For each exercise, clear instructions are given, fully compatible with
the general principle of meaning preservation, but in most cases, each particular example
poses a specific problem, and requires a specific solution. The approach is therefore very
different from that of structural exercises, which generally propose a model such as A ‡ A’,
and ask the student to produce B ‡ B’, C ‡ C’ by analogy. Such repetitive exercises do not
entail any need for creativity, and treat students like Pavlov's dogs. Learning a foreign
language does not merely involve acquiring conditioned reflexes...

The rephrasing exercises presented here are obviously not meant for beginners. I wrote them
when I was a lecturer at the "Université Antilles Guyane" and used them (quite often without
a written text) with first to third year students specializing in English. The practise was meant,
not only to improve their competence and performance in English, but also to stimulate their
linguistic observation and reflection. Important differences between synonymous pairs were
commented upon, for example, thematic differences involved in active or passive sentences.

Last but not least, the technique provided very convenient tests for exams, because it was easy
to adapt their difficulty to the level required; assessment and marking could be made easy,
fast, objective, and very precise, once a scoring grid had been worked out. The exercises
under 38. "Controlled rephrasing" are one example of what can be used for a written test.

N.B. Please note that the exercises presented here are FREE, they can be downloaded, shared,
modified, used for teaching (or learning) but never for commercial purposes.
EXERCISES PRESENTED IN THIS TEACHING DOCUMENT

1. NEGATIONS
2. TIME, TENSES AND TIME ADJUNCTS
3. ANAPHORIC DEVICES
4. REPORTED SPEECH AND TENSE AGREEMENT
5. FROM DIRECT TO INDIRECT QUESTIONS
6. MULTIPLE CONSTRUCTION VERBALS
7. DECOMPOSITION OF COMPLEX SENTENCES
8. SUBSTITUTIONS
9. SUBORDINATORS
10. MODALS
11. QUANTIFIERS
12. TOPICALIZATION
13. WORD ORDER CHANGES THAT DO NOT AFFECT MEANING
14. SUBJECT INVERSIONS
15. EXCLAMATORY AND INTERROGATIVE SENTENCES
16. PASSIVE
17. ΟΡΤΙΟΝΑL DΕLΕΤΙΟΝS
18. IT REPLACEMENT
19. COMPLEX SENTENCES
20. FROM FINITE TO NON-FINITE VERB PHRASES
21. LOGICAL SUBJECTS AND OBJECTS
22. OPPOSITIONS: MORPHEME A VERSUS MORPHEME B
23. OPPOSITIONS: MORPHEME A VERSUS Ø (ZERO)
24. OPPOSITIONS BETWEEN MODAL VERBS
25. DIFFERENCES IN PUNCTUATION
26. DIFFERENCES IN WORD ORDER
27. FROM NON-FINITE TO FINITE VERB PHRASES
28. IDENTICAL CATEGORIAL SEQUENCES
29. DOUBLETS
30. GRAMMATICAL HOMONYMS
31. SYNONYMOUS AND NON-SYNONYMOUS SENTENCES
32. DISTORSION
33. AMBIGUOUS SENTENCES
34. LEXICAL REPHRASING
35. MODALISATION
36. IDENTICAL LEAD REPHRASING
37. GRADUAL PROMOTION TO MAIN SUBJECT POSITION
38. CONTROLLED REPHRASING
39. MULTIPLE CONTROLLED REPHRASING
40. FREE MULTIPLE REPHRASING
+ 5 FURTHER SUGGESTIONS
1. NEGATIONS

For each of the following sentences, find a paraphrase in which a negative form beginning with N-
(such as NOT, NO, NEVER etc.) has been inserted, suppressed or moved.

1. We’ve got little bread left.

2. There were not many people at the meeting.
3. I think he will not come.
4. He no longer smokes.
5. It’s likely that he will not come.
6. He has to go.
7. We haven’t got enough books.
8. Peter is less clever than Bob.
9. She’s not too poor to buy a house.
10. You will not pass the exam if you don't work very hard.
11. We’ve got too little milk to make a cake.
12. Let us leave the umbrella, then.
13. Both of them refused the offer.
14. This is not a long enough explanation.
15. They almost never go out.
16. It seems he is not at home.
17. Will she come? I don’t think so.
18. He was not to be found anywhere.
19. I don’t often go to the pictures.
20. Everybody must admit this.
21. This exercise is not very interesting.
22. He didn’t only buy a car, but also a trailer.
23. She was not at all pleasant.
24. This is a less difficult example.
25. I imagine she won’t be pleased.
26. He always forgot to feed the dog.
27. I think he will be none the worse for it.
28. It seems he wants to stay.
29. Now that he is poor, he hasn’t got as many friends.
30. - Did she know what was in store for her? - I suppose not.
31. He didn’t look our way once.
32. I want you to refuse the offer.
33. We haven’t got enough information on the subject.
34. I’ve got less work to do these days.
35. No sooner had he closed the door than the phone rang.
36. He allowed them neither to leave nor to complain.
37. It was ten years before I saw him again.
38. He’s been fasting for three days.
39. I last met him two months ago.
40. I think the lid was off the tin.
41. They didn’t let him keep his hat on.
42. Provided was originally no less of a participle than Providing is.
2. TIME, TENSES and TIME ADJUNCTS

In each of the following cases, use the data provided to make sentences paraphrasing them and
putting to contribution such words as FOR, SINCE, AGO, BEFORE, LAST etc.

1. It is 12 o’clock. John is working. He started working at 8 o’clock.

2. It is 11 p.m. Paul went to sleep at 8.30 p.m. He is still sleeping.
3. I bought this car in January 1982 and it is still mine (in January 1988).
4. Jane was taken ill last Sunday. Today is Friday and she has not yet recovered.
5. Bill Clinton is President of the United States. He was elected in October 1992. We are now in
March 1994.
6. I saw him for the last time at the beginning of this month, and this is the last day of the month.
7. We moved into this house last July. It’s Xmas time, and we’re still living here.
8. I made her acquaintance when she was 22. She's 28 now.
9. I got up at 7a.m. It’s past 9a.m. now.
10. I went to the theatre for the last time when I was 18. I’m 22 now.
11. John became a teacher in 1990. He's still a teacher. Next year is 1997.
12. I haven’t seen Mary since I went to London 5 years ago.
13. Mr Brown died two years ago.
14. It’s over a year since I last heard from him.
15. It was over a year since I had last heard from him.
16. I haven’t met him for two years, in fact since I last went to Paris.
17. John got into the army when he was 22. I met him when he was 34 and he was still in the army
then. He's 40 now.
18. John arrived half an hour ago. He’s waiting for you.
19. My wife first drove this car in April this year and it’s Xmas time.
20. I didn’t see him again for ten years.
21. John and Mary got married in 1982. They divorced in 1986. We are in 1996.
22. The miners’ strike is well into its second week.
23. I haven't seen John for the last eight days. Today is Monday.
24. John came to live in London in 1980. I met him in 1984. He was still living in London then. John
left London in 1986. We are now in 1988.
3. ANAPHORIC DEVICES
In each of the following sentences, suppress all the repetitions you can, using the appropriate
anaphoric devices (personal pronoun, ONE, DO, Ø i.e. zero etc.).
1. The climate of France is milder than the climate of Russia.
2. This book is not the book I’m looking for.
3. I like the old coat, but I think I'll take the new coat.
4. I’m short of money. Can you lend me some money?
5. The last novel he wrote was his best novel.
6. The estate would now be his own estate.
7. Bob’s house is larger than Peter’s house, but Bob’s house is smaller than your house.
8. You want to see some cookery books? Well, we’ve got several cookery books on this shelf.
9. These jackets all suit you quite well. Which of these jackets will you have?
10. Mary and Jane are great friends. Mary and Jane were in St John’s College at Oxford.
11. Peter hates Bob and Bob hates Peter but Paul only hates Paul.
12. Do you prefer English apples or Australian apples?
13. --Will John pass the written test? - Yes, I think John will pass the written test.
14. John is in love with Mark’s sister and Mark is in love with John’s sister.
15. Our dog had a collar on which was not our dog’s collar.
16. You take that bike and I’ll take this bike.
17. He is ill, and he has been ill for a long time.
18. Pick the ripe plums and leave the green plums.
19. I don’t write poetry any more, but I used to write poetry when I was your age.
20. Jimmy gets on well with Alan, and Alan gets on well with Jimmy.
21. If it’s sugar you’re looking for, there isn’t any sugar left.
22. We've run out of tea: we'l1 have to do without tea unless we borrow some tea from the
neighbours.
23. She always parks her car on the lawn, although I've told her not to park her car on the lawn.
24. Take this cup away and bring me another cup.
25. I find it hard to get up early. I'm not used to getting up early.
26. Peter is English and Paul is French. Peter speaks Spanish and Paul speaks Spanish, but Peter
doesn’t speak German and Paul doesn’t speak German.
27. Bob knows my parents quite well. Bob is an old friend of my parents’.
28. Which boy do you mean ? The boy with the dark glasses?
29. If you wanted me to drive you to Manchester, why didn’t you ask me to drive you to
Manchester? I didn’t even know you wanted to go to Manchester.
30. I can’t play tennis, though I would love to play tennis. My doctor advised me not to play tennis.
31. Mary’s house is the first house on the left.
32. This computer saves me a lot of time. I don’t know what I would do without this computer.
33. This excuse is not good enough. We must try and find a better excuse.
34. Peter, Paul and Mary are English. Peter doesn’t speak French, Paul doesn’t speak French and
Mary doesn’t speak French either.
35. - Did John pass his final exam? - No, I am afraid John did not pass his final exam.
36. Give me this nail and bring me another two nails.
37. Mary blamed Paul for the incident, and Paul blamed Mary.
38. The problem of inflation and the problem of unemployment are closely related. The problem of
inflation is an economic problem and the problem of unemployment is a human problem. But you
can’t solve either of these problems without tackling the other problem.
4. REPORTED SPEECH AND TENSE AGREEMENT

Subordinate the sentence between quotation marks to the accompanying sentence, making sure that
tenses duly agree when they are supposed to.

1. Peter said : ‘I am very pleased.'

2. ‘We are extremely grateful,’ said the twins.
3. ‘John will come to the party,’ Mary said.
4. ‘I may never come back,’ said Mark.
5. Peter said : ‘Bob has promised to re-consider his position.’
6. Peter said : ‘I can easily convince Joan.’
7. ‘You must be tired,’ he said.
8. ‘I know David Williams quite well,’ said Mary.
9. ‘I daren’t smoke in front of my parents,’ said Peter.
10. ‘My mother died last month,’ Mary explained.
11. ‘I’m staying here until tomorrow,’ said the man.
12. ‘I saw Bob two days ago,’ Paul declared.
13. ‘I’ve been in London for five days,’ Mary said.
14. ‘I am not guilty,’ said Socrates.
15. ‘If I know the answer by then, I will tell you,’ he said to me.
16. ‘John might have to take the exam again,’ she said.
17. ‘The chairman must resign,’ said the young man.
18. ‘I wish I knew,’ she said.
19. Peter said : ‘Mary arrived on Tuesday.’
20. ‘I was in love with her when she was 18,’ Peter admitted.
21. ‘Virtue is knowledge,’ said Socrates.
22. ‘I’ll be leaving in two weeks’ time,’ he said.
23. ‘I haven’t seen her since I went to London 5 years ago,’ he said.
24. ‘I will talk to Peter as soon as I see him,’ Mary promised.
5. FROM DIRECT TO INDIRECT QUESTIONS

For each of the following direct questions, give a paraphrase containing an indirect question
subordinated to the main clause: "Tell me...'
N.B. Pay special attention to irregular verb forms.

1. Where did you go after the film ?

2. Where did they hide the money ?
3. What did she find in the top drawer ?
4. What did you know about her health condition ?
5. How much did the boy steal from the cash register ?
6. Did they catch him eventually ?
7. Who did you speak to on the phone last night ?
8. Where did the body lie when you arrived ?
9. How much money did she lay aside every month ?
10. Which of these dogs bit you ?
11. Where did you shoot these pheasants ?
12. Why did you fling dirt at him ?
13. What did you think you would find in that drawer ?
14. What did he drink before he took the drug ?
15. Why did your father fell that beautiful oak-tree ?
16. Which of you did see the burglar ?
17. Did his inquiries throw any light on the matter ?
18. What did you saw this huge log with ?
19. What did you do with yourself over the weekend ?
20. Why did you tear up the contract ?
21. Why did she break off the engagement ?
22. Why did you strike him in the face ?
23. Why did the Pilgrim Fathers flee to America ?
24. Why did they beat and hang the poor old man ?
6. MULTIPLE CONSTRUCTION VERBALS

In each of the following sentences, change the construction of the main verbal (i.e. verb or adjective)
without changing the overall meaning.

1. You should not give such a lot a sweets to your child.

2. After dinner, he always offered a glass of old port to his guests.
3. We shall provide the necessary information for the committee.
4. They let all the prisoners go.
5. The boy blamed his sister for the broken vase.
6. She envied John his success.
7. Mary sent her aunt Jane a long letter.
8. The peasants accepted to supply the army with food.
9. Peter told only Jane the secret.
10. His uncle had already explained the problem to the teacher.
11. They served some exquisite food to the newcomers.
12. It is likely that John will meet them at the wedding reception.
13. New ideas always teemed in his brain.
14. We'll have to buy little Johnny a new bike.
15. It is certain that John will raise objections.
16. He crammed the suitcase with summer clothes and put it away.
17. The old man hit his stick on the roof of my car.
18. The workers were loading an old truck with tons of bricks.
19. It's a problem which is not familiar to me.
20. Whether they really like her is not clear to me.
21. Their attitude was suspicious to her.
22. John was wise to give up the fight.
23. The keeper feeds large quantities of meat to the lions.
24. It is not absolutely certain for me.
25. They had to replace butter by margarine.
7. DECOMPOSITION OF COMPLEX SENTENCES

Break up each of the following complex sentences into as many simple ones as you can.

1. She is fully aware that Bob and I are the best of friends.
2. He felt quite certain he would succeed.
3. They were thankful we had come to the rescue.
4. She rightly complained that there was too much noise.
5. I was shocked to see her suffering.
6. I am ashamed that you were completely forgotten.
7. I'm pleased to have finished at last.
8. I'm glad you like my new house.
9. He was astonished to see us at the Tate Gallery.
10. I'm quite confident she will be competent for the job.
11. He simply rejoiced that we were reconciled again.
12. Our friend's death reminded us that we were still at war.
13. I am most happy that she finally accepted my offer.
14. He forced her to sign the cheque.
15. I'm proud I was able to help you.
16. I'm sorry I'm late.
17. They all agree that the price of oil will have to go up.
18. He consented to give us all the figures.
19. Peter is certain to pass the exam.
20. Peter is certain he will pass the exam.
8. SUBSTITUTIONS
In each of the following sentences, replace a word or phrase by something else, making all other
necessary arrangements, without changing the overall meaning nor the remaining words.

1. Not one of them knew the answer.

2. I came across him in Berkeley two months back.
3. He looked as if he wanted to say something.
4. Let us not tell him about this arrangement.
5. He doesn't go to church any longer.
6. Peter had a suit made last month.
7. I'm glad you've found someone you can talk with.
8. He's been ill for the last few days.
9. She thinks she is very subtle.
10. There's nothing else than pedantry in his article.
11. I had rather go than stay.
12. I needed some encouragement but there was not any.
13. He can't bear being found fault with.
14. I haven't seen him so far.
15. I'm sorry I couldn't come to the meeting last night.
16. They are proud they are American citizens.
17. He says you needn't go if you don't feel like it.
18. Peter is fond of crime novels, me too.
19. Peter reads a lot of detective stories, me too.
20. The floor needs scrubbing and polishing.
21. He was sure he knew the answer.
22. He daren't talk to her.
23. It's very nice to see you again.
24. They had as many as six servants.
25. Who were you talking to?
26. All the people who knew him liked him.
27. It was such a sad story that they all cried.
28. He's very busy at the moment but I'll invite him anyway.
29. Some of the hostages will be let go.
30. About twenty skiers were buried by an avalanche last year.
31. They do not consider that part of the job as important.
32. John was wise to leave early.
33. Whenever I see him, he tries to borrow money from me.
34. I'll invite whoever you suggest.
35. The cement was slightly cracked, but otherwise in good order.
36. He's finding it very difficult to adapt, and this is not surprising.
37. I asked her if she was ready.
38. He knew nothing whatever about the transaction.
39. You must pop the key into the letter box before leaving the house.
40. You haven't changed a bit.
41. If she gave me his address, I could send him a letter.
42. I don't object to him becoming a member.
43. He visited us before he flew to Russia.
44. We haven't invited a lot of guests, so we won't need a lot of food.
45. All the country is covered with snow.
46. How much are the birds? - Ten pounds apiece.
9. SUBORDINATORS

Give a paraphrase for each of the following sentences, inserting a subordinator ( a relative pronoun
or a complementizer etc.) such as THAT, WHO, WHOM, WHICH, IF, WHEN, WHERE, FOR etc.
making all other necessary arrangements (deletion and/or addition of certain elements, word order
changes etc.)

1. I know you don't appreciate my contributions.

2. The boy you are talking about is very lazy.
3. Had he come earlier, he could have helped us.
4. I still remember the day he joked about it.
5. I quite remember the day you mentioned.
6. This is probably the best example I can think of.
7. I'm sure he knows my mother.
8. This is the place I like best.
9. This is the place I was born.
10. Were it not for his financial support, we could not manage.
11. The reason he gave was rather surprising.
12. During the talk show, he revealed the real reason he won't travel to France.
13. He's so proud even his friends criticize him.
14. I like the way he writes when he feels well.
15. I like the way we took to the beach the other day.
16. The men in charge of the operation were caught by surprise.
17. The problems arising from this decision will be difficult to solve.
18. It's time to get up and have our breakfast.
19. Had I known you were ill, I wouldn't have sent you that message.
20. John taught his wife to drive.
21. That which creates can also destroy.
22. The facts mentioned in the article published that year didn't prove he was wrong.
23. I still remember the day he said he would explain the problems solved by his team.
24. Should he refuse the offer, we'll tell the lady he works with he is dishonest.
25. It's dishonest to tell your friends there's something strange about the whole affair.
10. MODALS

Give a paraphrase for each of the following sentences, inserting a modal verb such as CAN,
COULD, MAY, MIGHT, MUST, SHALL, SHOULD, WILL, NEED, OUGHT etc. making all other
necessary arrangements (deletion of certain elements etc.)

1. It is possible that John knows the answer.

2. It is possible for John to give you the answer.
3. There is a possibility that Peter took the money when he left.
4. Mary wasn't able to solve the problem.
5. It would be possible for your friends to help you.
6. It would have been possible for your friends to help you.
7. Do you want me to shut the door?
8. Perhaps Paul gave them the wrong key.
9. If Mary were in charge of the operation, she wouldn't be able to cope.
10. It is probably the case that John is back home by now.
11. I demand that he leave immediately.
12. I suppose we took the wrong road.
13. Perhaps John will pass the exam after all.
14. Alright, I promise to help you.
15. Will you allow me to buy you a drink?
16. How about trying a different approach?
17. It is necessary for John to be more careful.
18. You don't have to worry about his reaction.
19. I suppose the situation was rather difficult for his parents.
20. Try that new procedure. It is possible that you would like it.
21. Perhaps we had better pause for a moment.
22. It's understandable that he be unwilling to help.
23. I think I'd better go if you don't mind.
24. I hope you find this helpful.
25. John isn't really in a position to contradict them.
26. It's no use worrying about your future in the firm.
27. It's surprising for these birds to be kept in a cage.
28. You're always telling lies. I wish you told me the truth.
29. You'll wait here, whether you like it or not.
30. You warned him, but it was not necessary for you to do so.
11. QUANTIFIERS
Give a paraphrase for each of the following sentences, inserting a quantifier such as SOME, ANY,
EACH, EVERY, FEW, MANY, LITTLE, MUCH, ALL, BOTH etc. making all other necessary
arrangements (deletion and/or addition of certain elements, word order changes )

1. One day or another, they will see what I mean.

2. No citizen can refuse to abide by the law.
3. Not many people know that he is also an artist.
4. Not much information was made public on the subject.
5. John likes Paris and so does his wife.
6. John likes Paris and so do his wife and their children.
7. John earns 20000 Euros a month, and his wife earns 20000 Euros a month.
8. There's not one of those politicians that is not corrupt.
9. I don't think my decision had no effect at all.
10. There was not one person she didn't speak to at that party.
11. The operation, as it had been planned, had not much chance of success.
12. There is not a cloud that does not have a silver lining.
13. A lot of people have tried to climb that mountain, but not many have succeeded.
14. John works for MacroHard, and so do Peter, Paul and Mary.
15. We went to Bingley, about 20 miles from Leeds.
16. Whenever he comes to see us, he brings a present.
17. John loves Mary and Mary loves John.
18. I've told her to come to see you if she wants something, whatever that may be.
19. That party is not much more than a far-left fundamentalist movement.
20. That party is a bit more than a far-left fundamentalist movement.
21. He works seven days a week.
22. All the members of that club hate all the other members.
23. There was not one county that did not have its own dialect.
24. The twins did alike whatever they did.
25. We didn't have much chance of success.
26. He always seemed to do nothing.
27. Then I give the report to the manager or the accountant, or whoever.
28. There's hardly any bread left.
29. Use whichever drug is recommended, whenever you feel exhausted.
30. I had nearly finished. But the operation had not been very easy.
12. TOPICALIZATION

For each of the following sentences, provide a paraphrase in which the underlined noun phrase will
become the main subject, and as a consequence a new topic.
Don't forget to make all other necessary arrangements (deletion and/or addition of certain elements,
word order changes).

1. The maid murdered the old lady.

2. It is certain that Peter will resign.
3. They had to adjourn the meeting.
4. Suddenly a savage-looking man confronted me.
5. It is difficult to translate this book.
6. The medical officer will take care of the wounded.
7. A book was stolen from John.
8. It is worth investigating this point.
9. The bottom shelf has all the dictionaries on it.
10. The weight of the boy broke the branch.
11. It is restful to travel in this car.
12. It turned out that John had found the solution.
13. It turned out that John had found the solution.
14. The police arrested the young thug.
15. They sold the book for £ 22.50.
16. You can polish this wood bright.
17. John disgusts Peter.
18. Mrs Johnson lets a room to John.
19. Peter liked the present.
20. It is sure that Paul will have doubts on the subject.
21. John lost £ 20 to Bob.
22. He frightens her.
23. John bought a book from Peter.
24. Peter charged John £ 22.50 for the book.
25. John inherited £20,000 from Mr Brown.
26. John got the information from Peter.
27. One can wash this shirt easily.
28. This book cost me a lot of money.
29. John borrowed the book from Paul.
30. They made John refund the money.
13. WORD ORDER CHANGES THAT DO NOT AFFECT MEANING

In the following sentences, whenever possible, change the order of words without changing the
meaning (remember your sentence must be an accurate paraphrase of the original one).

1. Suddenly, the man had pulled out a gun.

2. It is likely that Bob will not come.
3. We shall each earn two thousand pounds.
4. Modern Jazz they are not very fond of.
5. They had been talking about what, precisely ?
6. Attention had not been paid to the matter.
7. All the boys passed their exams at the first sitting.
8. If John gets the job, he will be lucky.
9. I'm very keen on classical music.
10. I think they don't know me.
11. Out rushed the policeman again.
12. This is a test much too difficult for first-year students.
13. Both John and Mary attended the meeting.
14. With whom would you like to go tomorrow night?
15. He turned off the light.
16. Fun was made of his hesitant attitude.
17. I had never heard such a brilliant address.
18. New Zealand, after all, was a place just as distant as Australia.
19. Though I am anxious to please her, I can't possibly go to London this weekend.
20. The diamonds had been stolen by which of them ?
21. I would not reveal the secret under torture.
22. A statue of Sir Walter Raleigh stood in the middle of the garden.
23. The children were subjected to a discipline so severe that they rebelled.
24. He had a rather large house for a bachelor.
25. This is the student to whom she was talking when I saw her.
26. They had hardly locked the safe when the bomb went off.
27. He pushed open the swing-door.
28. They let all the prisoners go.
29. This is a system too complicated for beginners like us.
30. It was little suspected at the time that the President had erased the tapes.
31. The dog lay there, on the front lawn.
32. He has found a solution better than yours.
33. All the glasses fell down.
34. They have now published production figures different from those given originally.
35. John keeps one car only.
36. The balloon went up at last.
37. A man who wanted to see him came that morning.
38. He made known his intention the next day.
39. I would not venture there for all the money in the world.
40. She saw it in a way quite different from ours.
14. SUBJECT INVERSIONS

For each sentence, give an equivalent in which the original "logical" subject has been moved to the
right, not forgetting to make all necessary re-arrangements.

1. That she should be so selfish is incredible.

2. Seeing her again was very nice.
3. For Peter to fail his exam would be surprising.
4. No one was in sight.
5. The balloon went up at last.
6. Vast expanses of forest lay in the background.
7. An old castle stood on the hill.
8. Some difficulties arose the next day.
9. The police arrested 40 people after the demonstration.
10. Having you back with us is nice.
11. He did not give up hope until the end of the year.
12. The body lay there, on the kitchen floor.
13. An incident occurred at that point.
14. If you should find my umbrella, leave it with Bob.
15. They little thought I knew the truth.
16. One of the gangsters rushed out with a gun in his hand.
17. A feeling of sadness crept over him.
18. They had no sooner left the room than the bomb went off.
19. Your saying that is odd.
20. If you had been more prudent, nothing would have happened.
15. EXCLAMATORY AND INTERROGATIVE SENTENCES

For each of the following sentences, provide a paraphrase beginning with a wh- word (what, who,
whom, whose, which, when, why, where, how)

1. They were talking about what exactly ?

2. The diamonds were stolen by which of them ?
3. You lent your bicycle to whom ?
4. He told us such a funny story !
5. You look so tired !
6. Tell me where you caught all these crabs.
7. The world is so small !
8. You tipped the shop-assistant. What for ?
9. This is such an easy exercise !
10. It is so stupid of me not to have told you !
11. He'll come back home when precisely ?
12. He snores so much at night !
13. There were so many people in the streets!
14. You're staying with whom at the moment ?
15. You went to the cinema that night. Who with ?
16. Tell me why she broke off the engagement.
17. I would so much like to be with her now !
18. This coffee tastes so bitter !
19. John had borrowed whose car ?
20. The Headmaster said what, exactly ?
16. PASSIVE

Passivize the following sentences, i.e. in each case move a complement to subject position and insert
be + -en (-en = past participle ending), without forgetting to make any other changes made necessary
by these two operations.

1. The inspector will probably arrest the butler.

2. The customs officer is likely to confiscate your bottles of rum.
3. The government is about to nationalize the steel industry.
4. We shall have to face the consequences.
5. Is anyone attending to you ?
6. Children look after the animals in this zoo.
7. You can't fly these goods to the U.S.A., can you ?
8. They are building the new hospital, aren't they ?
9. Millions of people listened to the Queen's speech.
10. The Germans were looking for the partisan, weren't they 2
11. They lost sight of that side of the problem, didn't they 2
12. It is time we did away with the old system, isn't it 2
13. Teachers like their pupils to look up to them.
14. Nobody ever seems to pay attention to the matter.
15. They're going to talk about that problem, aren't they 2
16. All his friends made fun of him, didn't they 2
17. Teen-agers don't like people talking down to them.
18. Do you want me to clean the windscreen 2
19. People say that he is very rich.
20. We heard the village clock strike twelve.
21. Someone has told me that it's a local custom.
22. Get a mechanic to look at the carburettor.
23. We must admit he was right, mustn't we ?
24. The manager offered the office boy a better job.
25. They allowed their boss to exploit them.
26. Someone saw a man open the door.
27. There's a lot of work for us to do.
28. You will have to eat what we give you.
29. Don't misunderstand me ! 3
0. I hate people staring at me.
31. He managed to make people understand him.
32. All we know about him is that he is a lorry driver.
33. They made her refund all the money.
34. Which of you chose the wall-paper ?
35. She doesn't like people finding fault with her.
36. Would you like me to register this parcel ?
37. We shall have to get rid of that trouble-maker.
38. The doctors can't possibly take care of all the patients.
39. Some witnesses saw demonstrators burn a police van.
40. People believe that the terrorists killed the hostage.
17. ΟΡΤΙΟΝΑL DΕLΕΤΙΟΝS

In the following sentences, delete all the elements whose deletion does not affect meaning.

1. I think that he wants the parcel to be registered by someone.

2. Never eat more than what you have to eat.
3. If he had been warned in time, he could have saved his life and his wife's life as well.
4. It seems to be obvious that she considers you to be guilty.
5. I think that it will not be long before he realizes that he has been swindled by us.
6. If it is necessary, Paul can always go to Aunt Jane's place in order to do the gardening.
7. The only thing that I know is that I want you to be back by 7.
8. While I was at Cambridge University, I used to play rugby football, but I have not played rugby
football since then.
9. There seems to be no difficulty about the plan which has been suggested.
10. His father, who was a famous London doctor, was 70 years old.
11. The government which is ruling the country now could do nothing that was new about inflation.
12. However attractive she may be to other men, she is not my type of woman.
13. So that's the reason why he has been acting in so strange a manner
14. We who are civil servants want the system to be changed by the administration.
15. We have been walking for miles and miles, and she has not said a word for the last twenty
minutes.
16. The people who live next door always quarrel with each other on Sundays; it is something which
is awful.
17. The first thing that I saw was the letter which was on the table.
18. When he was only a child of six years of age, he won a thousand pounds in a quiz game; though
he was not very clever, he had an extraordinary memory.
19. The two men, of whom one was a Norwegian, and the other was a Dane, were both awarded
medals by the military authorities.
20. I can still remember the day when we met one another, and the dress that she was wearing.
21. That book which you lent to me is really the best that has ever been written by Saul Bellow.
22. All the people who were travelling in the first class compartments were killed: the train was
going at full speed when the accident happened.
23. Mary has spoken to her parents and Peter will speak to his parents as soon as he can do so.
24. While I was rummaging in some old trunks in the attic, I came upon a toy train which I used to
play with when I was a boy.
25. When he was asked whether he would come, he said that he was afraid that he would not come.
26. He stood there, with a gun in his hand, his face being very pale.
27. He is proud of it that his proposal has been taken into consideration by the people who sit on the
committee.
28. Whether it was through laziness or it was not, he never wrote anything that was worth
publishing.
29. The people who are in charge of the operation wish this to be done immediately.
30. The solution which has just been mentioned is the best that I can think of at the present moment.
18. IT REPLACEMENT

In each of the following sentences, replace IT with another noun phrase to be found in the sentence,
and make other arrangements when necessary.

1. It seems Peter is cross with you.

2. It is likely/probable that Daddy will come home late.
3. It is sure that Mary will accept our proposal.
4. It is certain that the patient will pull through.
5. It happens that I know the fellow.
6. It seems that it is going to snow.
7. It chanced that I came across her diary.
8. It seems that there has been a mistake.
9. It is interesting to read that report.
10. It is hard to solve this problem.
11. It is boring to talk about that subject.
12. It is very easy to live with my uncle.
13. It is tiring to travel in my car.
14. It is very nice to talk to her.
15. It is reported that ten people are missing.
16. It is believed that their leader is a Spaniard.
17. It is said that he is seriously ill.
18. It is generally thought that they are well-off.
19. It is known that he is an American spy.
20. It has been proved that he theory is wrong.
21. It is worthwhile reading this book.
22. It is worthwhile listening to this programme.
23. It is pleasant to look at the view.
24. It isn't easy to come by this article.
25. It is believed that he is a traitor.
26. It is believed that he was a traitor.
27. It was believed that he was a traitor.
28. It was believed that he had been a traitor.
29. It was great fun to live with her.
30. It is restful to lie on this couch.
31. It is necessary to solve this problem.
32. It would have been difficult for John to beat Tony.
33. Does it chance that you have any French rolls?
34. It appears that there has been a misunderstanding.
35. It was found that the money had been stolen.
36. It is hard to play sonatas on this violin.
37. It is hard to play sonatas on this violin.
38. It seems that there was no volunteer at the time.
39. It is worthwhile fighting for freedom.
40. It is feared that the plane crashed in the Andes.
19. COMPLEX SENTENCES

Combine the sentences given in each case to form one complex sentence that preserves the overall
meaning.

1. I didn’t go to the show last night. My parents didn't allow me.

2. Show me the document. That’s what I want.
3. He signed the letter. They probably forced him into it.
4. Where did you hide the scroll? Tell me.
5. She might come to the party tomorrow. I would like that.
6. Did she tell Bob you had written to her father? I wonder.
7. You are sitting on a chair. It has wet paint on it.
8. You can come again some other day. Honestly, I prefer that.
9. I can translate this text. Do you want that?
10. I want to open the window to let some fresh air in? Do you mind?
11. I didn’t pay for the meal. They didn't let me.
12. He talks about some people in his book. They are all dead by now.
13. Sometimes children sing Xmas carols at my door. I always enjoy it.
14. Did he feel disheartened (or not)? Nobody knew.
15. The laws must be obeyed The President wants that.
16. He lived in close contact with some people. They all disliked him.
17. They said: “we shall have to find a new sponsor”.
18. He threw the letter into the waste paper basket. I saw him.
19. Peter gave us all the details. That is surprising.
20. The general had ordered something. The prisoners were to be shot.
21. He kept the money. They let him.
22. I was examined by a doctor. He was very young.
23. He said: “Bob must be rather disappointed”.
24. We have to put up with some conditions. Those conditions are simply appalling.
25. He had passed the documents to a man. That man was working for the C.I.A.
26. Sometimes he is criticized. He can't bear it.
27. This work might be finished before Xmas. I would like that.
28. He gave the money back. They made him.
29. Mary said: “this book can be useful”.
30. John said: “Bob will talk to Mary when she comes at 9”.
31. His article is very long. Nevertheless, it reads quite well.
32. John will give us a hand. He promised me
33. Bob saw it in the paper. He is positive
34. Sylvia was alone. That worried him.
35. Someone paid money into the account. It was John.
36. She is a wonderful woman. You have no idea how wonderful.
37. He was devoted to a girl. She was singing in her bath. He heard her.
38. Bob is working for a company. The job must be completed before next Sunday. That’s what the
company wish for.
39. She was living with a man. That man left her. Can you tell me why?
40. I'm staying with some people. Sometimes they are disturbed while they sleep. They don't like it.
20. FROM FINITE TO NON-FINITE VERB PHRASES

Paraphrase each of the following sentences, replacing at least one finite verb
form by a non-finite one (i.e. an infinitive, a gerund or a participle).

1. Bob promised me that he would keep quiet.

2. Do you mind if we borrow your rackets?
3. She was surprised when she met with a flat refusal.
4. Peter was sure that he was right.
5. Bob promised me that he would not say a word.
6. Tell me where I must get off.
7. I don't like it when she drives so fast.
8. She doesn't know who she can turn to.
9. He complained that you made a lot of noise.
10. Give me some soap so I can wash my hands with it.
11. It is incredible that she should have taken the money.
12. The witness testified that he had seen a man come out.
13. I don't know what I can advise you to buy.
14. John was wise when he accepted the offer.
15. He had no glass out of which he could drink.
16. They agreed with us that the cost of production was too high.
17. The last person who saw him was the night porter.
18. There is no bed in which your friend can sleep.
19. It is high time a new solution were found.
20. Do you think she will object if I smoke?
21. You may rely upon it that I shall be punctual.
22. They feared that their leader had been assassinated.
23. The first boy who woke up that morning was Peter.
24. He had no medicine from which he could get relief.
25. She found that the jewels had disappeared.
26. They wouldn't believe it that there had been a mistake in the accounts.
27. He gave me a chair so that I could sit on it.
28. The only pupil that swore he had seen you was Jon.
29. They are thankful we lent them a hand.
30. Bob considers that he is a genius.
31. I'm sorry I'm so late.
32. It is surprising that there should be so many visitors.
21. LOGICAL SUBJECTS AND OBJECTS

In each case, provide the paraphrase in which each verbal has its logical subject to its immediate left
and (if the case arises) its logical object to its immediate right.

1. It is only natural that he should hesitate.

2. There crept over him an unpleasant sensation.
3. John is likely to cancel the arrangements.
4. Up went the rocket with a bang.
5. They believed him to have embezzled a large sum of money.
6. On the walls hung huge tapestries.
7. Here is today's paper.
8. The plane is feared to have crashed.
9. It is nice having you back with us.
10. Peter is sure to raise objections.
11. The theory is said to have been proved wrong by a team of experts.
12. Not until the end of the year was she allowed by the doctor to go back to work.
13. There are several pages missing in this book.
14. There arose several difficulties the next day.
15. He was said to have been reported killed by a bomb.
16. Mary was believed to have been easily accepted by the board.
17. It is unusual to speak five languages.
18. Over the bridge marched the soldiers.
19. There's your sister.
20. He is working very hard, is John.
21. There were several demonstrators arrested by the police.
22. John was likely to be considered a traitor.
23. On the horizon loomed a massive ship with three masts.
24. The boy you were talking to is a friend of mine.
25. Mrs Thatcher is said to have sent Mr Bush a long letter.
22. OPPOSITIONS: MORPHEME A VERSUS MORPHEME B

Compare the meanings of the two sentences given under each of the numbers in this exercise,
through their respective paraphrases.

1 a You must stop thinking about it.

b You must stop to think about it.
2 a I shall do the shopping tomorrow.
b I will do the shopping tomorrow.
3 a It may not be true.
b It cannot be true.
4 a Little children know this.
b Few children know this.
5 a He went on speaking about the financial aspect of the problem.
b He went on to speak about the financial aspect of the problem.
6a Did you remember meeting him at the station?
b Did you remember to meet him at the station ?
7 a His sister was an invalid for life.
b His sister has been an invalid for life.
8 a Did you hear John Williams play?
b Have you heard John Williams play?
9 a Could you phone him this afternoon ?
b Were you able to phone him this afternoon?
10 a We want better teachers.
b We want more good teachers.
11 a I worked hard this morning.
b I have worked hard this morning.
12 a She was afraid to speak.
b She was afraid of speaking.
13 a You must not do that.
b You need not do that.
14 a I tried to speak Spanish to them.
b I tried speaking Spanish to them.
15 a He must have gone to the meeting.
b He should have gone to the meeting.
16 a She made him a good wife.
b She made him a good husband.
17 a We camped there in the Spring.
b We camped there for the Spring.
18 a Peter and Mary blamed each other for the accident
b Peter and Mary blamed themselves for the accident.
19 a The problem of the striking workers worried the government.
b The striking workers' problem worried the government.
20 a How is your brother ?
b What is your brother like ?
23. OPPOSITIONS: MORPHEME A VERSUS Ø (ZERO)

1 a His brother was to become a doctor.

b His brother was to have become a doctor.
2 a You needn't translate the text.
b You needn't have translated the text.
3 a He always does his homework.
b He's always doing his homework.
4 a John felt better and decided to go to work.
b John was feeling better and decided to go to work.
5 a Do you like music?
b Do you like the music?
6 a Who Saw Peter ?
b Who did Peter See ?
7 a What did you do in the kitchen?
b What were you doing in the kitchen?
8 a I saw a man cross the street.
b I saw a man crossing the street.
9 a The boy went to bed.
b The boy went to the bed.
10 a There were many things to do in the house.
b There were many things to be done in the house.
11 a I heard a door slam at midnight.
b I heard a door slamming at midnight.
12 a I have lived in this town for two years.
b I have been living in this town for two years.
13 a Between 5 and 6, I watched a serial on T.V.
b Between 5 and 6, I was watching a serial on T.V.
14 a Who's eaten my dinner?
b Who's been eating my dinner?
15 a John has repaired the car.
b John has been repairing the car.
16 a Baudelaire, as poet, had a great sense of balance and a refined taste.
b Baudelaire, as a poet, had a great sense of balance and a refined taste.
17 a I ate my lunch after my wife came home.
b I ate my lunch after my wife had come home.
18 a Will you bring the piano in here?
b Will you be bringing the piano in here?
19 a The professor types his own letters.
b The professor is typing his own letters.
20 a The judge agreed to release the prisoner.
b The judge agreed to releasing the prisoner.
24. OPPOSITIONS BETWEEN MODAL VERBS

Compare the meanings of the two sentences given under each of the numbers in this exercise,
through their respective paraphrases.

1 a Can I have a cup of tea?

b May I have a cup of tea?
2 a It may not be true.
b It cannot be true.
3 a Could you phone him this afternoon?
b Were you able to phone him this afternoon?
4 a You must not do that.
b You need not do that.
5 a He must have gone to the meeting.
b He should have gone to the meeting.
6 a You needn't translate the text.
b You needn't have translated the text.
7 a Will you bring the piano in here?
b Will you be bringing the piano in here?
8 a We could go to the beach every day.
b We would go to the beach every day.
9 a This gun can be loaded.
b This gun may be loaded.
10 a That must be your friend Peter.
b That will be your friend Peter.
11 a Someone must be telling lies.
b Someone has to be telling lies.
12 a I shall drown, and no one will rescue me!
b I will drown, and no one shall rescue me!
13 a John will go all day without eating.
b John shall go all day without eating.
14 a Shall I carry your suitcase?
b Must I carry your suitcase?
15 a You may not smoke in here.
b You mustn't Smoke in here.
16 a He must pay for the broken window.
b He ought to pay for the broken window.
25. DIFFERENCES IN PUNCTUATION

Under each of the numbers in this exercise, you will find two sentences which are identical except
for their punctuation. Compare their respective meanings through their respective paraphrases.

1 a I didn't go out because it was warm.

b I didn't go out, because it was warm.
2 a Peter drinks and Paul smokes heavily.
b Peter drinks - and Paul smokes - heavily.
3 a She is engaged to him, though he is a catholic.
b She is engaged to him, though; he is a catholic.
4 a For him to stay outside would have been better.
b For him, to stay outside would have been better.
5 a I don't believe you to be honest.
b I don't believe you, to be honest.
6.a All the students who had worked hard passed their exams.
b All the students, who had worked hard, passed their exams.
7 a We learnt a lot about the problems of poverty in India.
b We learnt a lot about the problems of poverty, in India.
8 a Students normally timid are not successful with girls.
b Students, normally timid, are not successful with girls.
9 a I saw John and Bob's parents.
b I saw John, and Bob's parents.
10 a The first man to fly the Atlantic took over 48 hours.
b The first man, to fly the Atlantic, took over 48 hours.
11 a The judge said there was plenty of evidence and there was no doubt.
b The judge said there was plenty of evidence and there was, no doubt.
12 a The play ended happily.
b The play ended, happily.
13 a They talked, instead of changing the system.
b They talked, instead, of changing the system.
14 a Bob writes novels as well as his friend Peter.
b Bob writes novels as well as his friend Peter.
15 a He intended to read the first article only: he felt too tired.
b He intended to read the first article, only he felt too tired.
16 a His horse didn't arrive in the first place.
b His horse didn't arrive, in the first place.
17 a He has declared that he is running for President again.
b He has declared that he is running for President, again.
18 a His intention to speak frankly was laudable.
b His intention, to speak frankly, was laudable.
19 a I ordered my meal to be served as soon as possible.
b I ordered my meal, to be served as soon as possible.
20 a For Britain to leave the EEC would be an economic disaster.
b For Britain, to leave the EEC would be an economic disaster.
21 a I didn't like him personally.
b I didn't like him, personally.
22 a My father advised me to tell you the truth.
b My father advised me, to tell you the truth.
23 a The President answered all the questions of the Press wisely.
b The President answered all the questions of the Press, wisely.
24 a Mary speaks English clearly.
b Mary speaks English, clearly.
25 a The children who were sleepy were sent to bed immediately after dinner.
b The children, who were sleepy, were sent to bed immediately after dinner.
26 a The man stopped looking at the house.
b The man stopped, looking at the house.
27 a I want the new car to be there in time.
b I want the new car, to be there in time.
28 a John will probably ask me if you're going to the party with Bob.
b John will probably ask me, if you're going to the party with Bob.
29 a Ann saw him, walking towards the station.
b Ann saw him walking towards the station.
30 a I'd like to have a sandwich only: I have little money left.
b I'd like to have a sandwich, only I have little money left.
31 a Why! Do you want me to leave?
b Why do you want me to leave?
32 a We met John Wilson, the President, and the Defence Secretary.
b We met John Wilson (the President), and the Defence Secretary.
26. DIFFERENCES IN WORD ORDER

Under each of the numbers in this exercise, you will find two sentences which only differ in word
order. Compare their respective meanings through their respective paraphrases.

1 a They painted the house white.

b They painted the white house.
2 a Who did Mary speak to ?
b Who did speak to Mary ?
3 a There occurred an incident.
b There an incident occurred.
4 a John had built a house.
b John had a house built.
5 a The jury's severe verdict came as a surprise.
b The severe jury's verdict came as a surprise.
6 a I have several books to read.
b I have to read several books.
7 a She correctly added the eggs to the mixture.
b She added the eggs to the mixture correctly.
8 a Harry celebrated after he won the race.
b He celebrated after Harry won the race.
9 a She wisely didn't accept the proposal.
b She didn't wisely accept the proposal.
10 a Sailors drink rum often.
b Sailors often drink rum.
11 a On Sunday, he said he would come.
b He said he would come on Sunday.
12 a John wanted Paul to write a letter.
b John wanted to write Paul a letter.
13 a You wanted Bob to marry Helen, and so did he.
b You wanted Bob to marry Helen, and so he did.
14 a We both like tea and coffee.
b We like both tea and coffee.
15 a He wisely answered all the questions.
b He answered all the questions wisely.
16 a The customs officer looked over the paper.
b The customs officer looked the paper over.
27. FROM NON-FINITE TO FINITE VERB PHRASES

Rephrase the following sentences, substituting in each case a finite (i.e. tensed) verb phrase
for the non-finite one (i.e. infinitive, gerund or participle) contained in the original sentence.
Make sure you assign the correct subject to its corresponding verb in each case.

1 . The conservative candidate expected to be elected.

2. Peter promised me to look into the matter.
3. Bob asked me to referee the match.
4. Mary believed Peter to be a liar.
5. It’s incredible for Bob to have told such a story.
6. I like you to sing Irish ballads.
7. The radio reported him to have been deposed.
8. They didn’t tell me what to say.
9. They didn’t ask me what to do.
10. They requested visitors not to tread on the grass.
11. Going to the cinema bores me.
12. She saw him unlock the door and sneak out.
13. The rule was for men and women to sit apart.
14. To follow his advice would be suicide.
15. Make sure you lock the door before going to bed.
16. I hate people like him to criticize you.
17. To resign now would simply mean the end of your career.
18. It is time for him to be told the truth.
19. The general ordered the prisoners to be shot.
20. They found the money to have been stolen.
21 He was wise to make that decision.
22. Searching the drawer, he discovered a gun.
23. Hiding in the dark, he discovered a small boy.
24. I would hate for him to get the praise for it all.
25. I cant’ stand hearing them shout.
26. Einstein proved the theory to be wrong.
27. It would be better to buy yourself a new car.
28. I like children to be quiet.
29. I'll see his death avenged.
30. I asked to be given another chance.
28. IDENTICAL CATEGORIAL SEQUENCES

28.A. In each case, find a paraphrase for one of the sentences given which has no analogous
grammatical counterpart for the other.

1 a Her husband taught her to drive.

b Her husband wanted her to drive.
2 a John was clever to find the solution.
b John was likely to find the solution.
3 a He promised me to sign the cheque.
b He forced me to sign the cheque.
4 a Fred believed Alice to be cautious.
b Fred persuaded Alice to be cautious.
5 a John enjoyed the following Sunday.
b John arrived the following Sunday.
6 a We slept two hours last night.
b We wasted two hours last night.
7 a The secretary will cost you £200.
b The secretary will give you £200.
8 a He was wise to answer the questions.
b He was slow to answer the questions.
9 a She will look after the children.
b She will leave after the children.
10 a The man ordered a meal to suit his appetite.
b The man ordered a waiter to bring his meal.
11 a They interviewed the candidate elected.
b They reported the candidate elected.
12 a The champion expected to be stronger than the challenger.
b The champion seemed to be stronger than the challenger.
13 a Paul persuaded the doctor to examine Mary.
b Paul wanted the doctor to examine Mary.
14 a A lot of people were looking at the programme.
b A lot of people were waiting at the door.
15 a The guards shot two prisoners trying to escape.
b The guards saw two prisoners trying to escape.
16 a She helped to do the housework.
b She came to do the housework.
28.B. In each case, find a paraphrase for one of the sentences given which has no analogous
grammatical counterpart for the other.

1 a It's high time to go there.

b It's sheer madness to go there.
2 a John hoped to be elected by the delegates.
b John failed to be elected by the delegates.
3 a It would have been difficult to solve the problem.
b It would have been better to solve the problem.
4a You were kind to take my defence.
b You were afraid to take my defence.
5 a They reported him dead.
b They shot him dead.
6 a She wore a chiffon dress, which is fashionable.
b She wore a chiffon dress, which is surprising.
7 a They intended the book to be published.
b They wanted the book to be published.
8 a This soup is too hot to eat.
b This dog is too hot to eat.
9 a John is certain to accept the plan.
b John is ready to accept the plan.
10 a He's proud to be your husband.
b He's lucky to be your husband.
11 a They are too difficult to read.
b They are too lazy to read.
12 a People tend to ignore this problem.
b People pretend to ignore this problem.
13 a This is an opportunity for you to seize.
b This is an opportunity for you to travel.
14 a He correctly pressed the black button.
b He suddenly pressed the black button.
15 a The chairman claims to be impartial.
b The chairman appears to be impartial.
16 a The authorities began to understand the problem.
b The authorities started to study the problem.
29. DOUBLETS
Under each of the numbers in this exercise, you will find two sentences which exhibit identical
categorial sequences and contain a common verbal (verb or adjective) but nevertheless have
different grammatical properties. Show what the differences are by finding a paraphrase for one of
the two sentences which has no correct equivalent for the other.

1 a A storm threatened to break.

b The minister threatened to resign.
2 a They began to understand the problem with great clarity.
b They began to build a bridge in great haste.
3 a The cheese was good to eat.
b The missionary was good to come.
4 a This child is too hot to drink.
b This coffee is too hot to drink.
5 a She was looking sideways.
b She was looking well.
6 a John must be more careful than he is.
b John must be older than you are.
7 a This suit is not fit to wear.
b This soldier is not fit to fight.
8 a The villagers turned out to like the new vicar.
b The villagers turned out to see the new vicar.
9 a The branch is too difficult to break.
b The branch is too strong to break.
10 a It was a clear day.
b It was a clear mistake.
11 a The church is still building.
b The workers are still building.
12 a Our teachers expected their pupils to behave well.
b My parents expected their friends to arrive soon.
13 a Bob is a complete athlete.
b Paul is a complete fool.
14 a They read every evening in the library.
b They read every book in the library.
15 a I would never consult a criminal layer.
b I would never consult a criminal dealer.
16 a This book reads easily.
b This child reads easily.
17 a Bob is a heavy drinker.
b Paul is a heavy boxer.
18 a This is a real story.
b This is a real diamond.
19 a It is hard to lose One's wife.
b It is hard to solve John's problems.
20 a Children can learn a lot of things in a Nursery School.
b Children can break a lot of things in a china-shop.
22 a The President may die before his term of office.
b The President may resign before his term of office.
23 a This car drives well.
b This woman drives well.
30. GRAMMATICAL HOMONYMS
Find a paraphrase for one of the sentences which has no acceptable equivalent for the other.
1 a They turned off the road.
b They turned off the light.
2 a The customs officer looked over his shoulder.
b The customs officer looked over her papers.
3 a The table was laid by the head waiter.
b The table was laid by the fireside.
4 a Paul cleaned the car for two pounds.
b Paul cleaned the car for two hours.
5 a The joint will be cooked by one of us.
b The joint will be cooked by one o'clock.
6 a Peter was interested in the old church-yard.
b Peter was buried in the old church-yard.
7 a I regret what happened last night.
b I wonder what happened last night.
8 a What I'm doing is my business.
b What I'm doing is my homework.
9 a I was running in my car.
b I was running in my garden.
10 a She was running down the hill.
b She was running down the neighbours.
11 a It's harmful for him to smoke cigars.
b It's surprising for him to smoke cigars.
12 a What she was looking for was a mystery.
b What she was looking for was a letter.
13 a Do I have to drive in this nail ?
b Do I have to drive in this town ?
14 a Eat what you are told to.
b Eat what you are used to.
15 a I want to know where I am.
b I want to stay where I am.
16 a He ate what his wife had cooked.
b He wondered what his wife had cooked.
17 a He came to see me about dinner time.
b He came to see me about business matters.
18 a The house was built by the local river.
b The house was built by the local contractor.
19 a He photographed prisoners being tortured.
b He hated prisoners being tortured.
20 a He didn't enjoy fighting against the Russians.
b He didn't die fighting against the Russians.
21 a Scientists think that life had its origin in the ocean.
b Scientists think that species had its origin in the ocean.
22 a I remember when he sneaked out of School.
b I wonder when he sneaked out of School.
23 a You don't know how old he is.
b You don't know how stupid he is.
24 a John's solution was the better for our needs.
b John's solution was the better for its realism.
31. SYNONYMOUS AND NON-SYNONYMOUS SENTENCES

In each case, say if the two sentences given are synonymous or not. If not, explain the difference
between them.

1 a The candidate considered that he was certain to be elected.

b The candidate considered himself certain to be elected.
2 a Nixon found that he was likely to be impeached.
b Nixon found himself likely to be impeached.
3 a The man saw that the boy was going out.
b The man saw the boy who was going out.
4 a Mary expected John to win the contest.
b Mary expected the contest to be won by John.
5 a John persuaded the doctor to examine Mary.
b John persuaded Mary to be examined by the doctor.
6 a This fiddle is tough to play Sonatas on.
b Sonatas are tough to play on this fiddle.
7 a This decision is for you to make.
b You are to make this decision.
8 a This chair is for you to sit on.
b You are to sit on this chair.
9 a He will come to the party if Bob can.
b Bob will come to the party if he can.
10 a They loaded bricks on the truck.
b They loaded the truck with bricks.
11 a His solution seems likely to be original.
b His solution is likely to seem original.
12 a There are a lot of things to do in the house.
b There are a lot of things to be done in the house.
13 a All the children in the world learn at least one language.
b At least one language is learnt by all the children in the world.
14 a Her husband got killed two months ago.
b Her husband killed himself two months ago.
15 a This coffee is too hot to drink.
b This coffee is too hot to be drunk.
16 a One single witness had not seen the man.
b The man had not been seen by one single witness.
32. DISTORSION

In each case, show the difference in meaning between the first sentence and the second through a
paraphrase for the latter.

1 a Everybody believes John.

b Everybody believes John to be a liar.
2 a The money was found by the police.
b The money was found by the police to have been stolen.
3 a This sentence is easy.
b This sentence is easy to misunderstand.
4 a John is sure.
b John is sure to have doubts.
5 a The theory was proved by Einstein.
b The theory was proved by Einstein to be wrong.
6 a His departure is likely.
b His departure is likely to be cancelled.
7 a Their assistance is certain.
b Their assistance is certain to be withdrawn.
8 a The man appeared.
b The man appeared to have vanished.
9a In this university, the exams are difficult.
b In this university, the exams are difficult to fail.
10 a Everyone here knows military secrets.
b Everyone here knows military secrets to be strictly confidential.
11 a Martin Luther King was feared by his followers.
b Martin Luther King was feared by his followers to have been assassinated.
12 a After midnight, the fire began.
b After midnight, the fire began to die down.
13 a Well-paid jobs are usually tough.
b Well-paid jobs are usually tough to find.
14 a I hate old people.
b I hate old people to be treated with disrespect.
15 a They found the boy.
b They found the boy to be missing.
16 a The conjurer made a cake.
b The conjurer made a cake disappear.
17 a I like children.
b I like children to be quiet.
18 a The principle was discovered by Newton.
b The principle was discovered by Newton to be inadequate.
19 a Do you want this bag 2
b Do you want this bag thrown away ?
20 a At the meeting, there were twenty people.
b At the meeting, there were twenty people missing.
21 a The man still had most of his apples.
b The man still had most of his apples stolen by children.
22 a It was the storm that caused the fire.
b It was the storm that caused the fire to stop.
23 a One of the boys at the school was reported by his friends.
b One of the boys at the school was reported by his friends to have been sick after lunch.
24 a John is impossible.
b John is impossible to dislike.
25 a The members of the Press did not expect the Prime Minister.
b The members of the Press did not expect the Prime Minister to cancel the conference.
26 a The flow of refugees began.
b The flow of refugees began to dwindle.
27 a I require you.
b I require you to keep out of this altogether.
28 a The last word was said by the judge.
b The last word was said by the judge to be illegible.
29 a As for a car, the Rolls would be better.
b As for a car, the Rolls would be better left in the garage.
30 a War was declared.
b War was declared to be over.
33. AMBIGUOUS SENTENCES

For each of the following ambiguous sentences, give as many different paraphrases as there are
meanings (N.B. the paraphrases should be synonymous with the original sentence but not with one
another).

1. Peter wants the report written by Paul.

2. She had punished herself and no one else.
3. He didn't like the children playing in the garden.
4. What we teachers need is more interesting material.
5. The man had been reported killed by the Germans.
6. For her birthday, Mary Parker was given a book by George Eliot.
7. I would like the book illustrated by Harold Finn.
8. You don't know how good wine tastes.
9. Your remarks hurt his feelings more than mine.
10. The house John had built was very big.
11. It would have been better for him to stay outside.
12. What annoyed Paul was being deliberately ignored by his friends.
13. This the pipe my father used to smoke.
14. Visiting relatives can be a nuisance.
15. John may not attend the proceedings.
16. Let us go to the pictures
17. She does work for the hospital.
18. They found the boy missing after the air-raid.
19. Peter had the book that you wanted taken out of the library.
20. Mary hid the car keys, so her husband couldn't go out.
21. The ghost appeared to talk to his son.
22. He left his wife to answer the door.
23. His wife bought a new hat, which didn't please him.
24. At 7 o'clock, all the shops were closed.
25. John had several watches stolen from the shop.
26. The villagers turned out to know the vicar better.
27. He went to sleep on the sofa.
28. Water supplies have been cut off for two weeks.
29. John wise when he married Jane.
30. The teachers were ordered to stop drinking on the campus.
34. LEXICAL REPHRASING

Paraphrase each of the following sentences, transferring as many lexical items as you can from one
category (i.e. verb, noun, adjective etc.) to another.

1. It is likely that John will succeed.

2. Bob is evidently sincere.
3. She was completely happy.
4. What he had done pleased her immensely.
5. I was incredibly surprised at the way he reacted.
6. Luckily, my explanations satisfied him completely.
7. There are fears that a plane may have crashed.
8. We witnessed how the enemy destroyed the city completely.
9. He was angry but he listened to me patiently.
10. Someone had searched the room carefully before she arrived.
11. He did not behave prudently.
12. That John is eager to please Mary is a sign that he loves her deeply.
13. John had the patience to explain everything to us.
14. The guerrillas reportedly massacred a lot of peasants in a village in the South.
15. Have you got by any chance something that sums up what she described?
16. What the government achieved in the economy can be questioned.
17. When the Prime Minister announced he had decided to make the system more modern, nobody
objected.
18. Peter is likely to win the election.
19. He made it clear what he intended to do in case the Republicans won the election.
20. What he concludes on the problems of ecology can be challenged.
21. He foolishly rejected what they had proposed.
22. She correctly assumed that it was something that had been misprinted.
23. The price of imported goods tends to increase.
24. That the young boy recovered quickly surprised everybody.
25. The jury's insistence that I had treated the subject superficially disappointed me.
26. The way he describes the energy of atoms impresses you.
27. The old man visited the museum very frequently.
28. The minister constantly stated things in which he congratulated himself, which annoyed the
public.
29. People who drink heavily are to be contemned, not admired.
30. A child with a great intelligence is always interested in Maths.
31. The old professor knew the problems of economy thoroughly, but he was not even polite in the
way he behaved towards the students.
32. Although the question was extremely delicate, what he explained was satisfactory for us.
33. Paul was sincerely repentant, but it could easily be understood that he should be reluctant to
admit he was guilty.
34. She danced beautifully, but she was excessively proud and outrageously cynical.
35. What they offered, though it was generous, greatly embarrassed people.
36. The man who was president previously worked very patiently, but he was completely foolish.
35. MODALISATION

Modify each of the following sentences, retaining the same thematic structure and integrating the
indication of modality suggested between brackets within the predicate.

1. The maid stole the diamonds (or at least it seems to be the case).
2. The plane crashed in the Andes (or at least that is what the press reported).
3. The safe was open (maybe).
4. John will reject our offer (it is very likely).
5. The house was haunted by a ghost (people believed so).
6. The man was murdered (people believe so).
7. This type of problem could not be solved (it would be difficult).
8. John will get the job (it is virtually certain).
9. Two children were missing (as it seemed).
10. The man escaped from a high security prison (at any rate, people say so).
11. Five union leaders have been arrested (people thought so).
12. Five union leaders were arrested (people think so).
13. The man was a plain clothes policeman (as it turned out).
14. You are right (it must be the case).
15. I know his father (as it happens).
16. Bob will win the match (I am sure of that).
17. This text cannot be translated (it is impossible).
18. There is a mistake in the accounts (it might be the case).
19. George Kerry will win the election (it seems that it is likely).
20. John will be elected (he considers that it is likely).
36. IDENTICAL LEAD REPHRASING

For each of the following sentences, give a paraphrase beginning with the same word as the original
one.

1. There seems to be nobody in the house.

2. Do you want the nurse to make the bed?
3. It seems (that) it is difficult to please him.
4. What Mr Johnson is building is a garage.
5. Everybody believes (that) there was a conflict between them.
6. I hate you to make fun of her.
7. It is said that a lot of people saw it.
8. The man obviously considered (that) he was a great scientist.
9. Do you mind if I borrow your umbrella?
10. The fire brigade fear (that) the youngster had an accident.
11. The man was slow to answer their question.
12. Bob said to me: 'I met Peter two weeks ago'.
13. We haven't got enough computers.
14. They supply meat for the local hospital.
15. He felt quite certain (that) she had told a lie.
16. Bob said: 'It must be too late'.
17. It is incredible (that) she should be so selfish.
18. She almost never calls on us.
19. Should the rest of them find fault with our plans, we can always make some alterations.
20. I last went to the cinema 2 years ago.
21. Paul arrived when the office opened 20 minutes ago.
22. They will each get a new bicycle.
23. Had they paid attention to my remarks, this would never have happened.
24. The colonel ordered all leaves to be cancelled.
25. It is worthwhile thinking about it.
26. We thought (that) it was necessary to warn you.
27. George Bush was elected President of the United States two years ago.
28. I suppose (that) Peter will not object to your coming with us.
29. They forced him to make a false declaration.
30. It is likely (that) it is interesting to listen to it.
37. GRADUAL PROMOTION TO MAIN SUBJECT POSITION

For each of the following sentences, give successive paraphrases in which a given Noun Phrase is
moved gradually towards the left until it reaches the beginning of the sentence and acquires the
function of main clause subject.

1. It is certain that they will offer a new job to Bob.

2. It seems that it is likely that his son will find him.
3. People believed that the radio had reported that someone had killed her.
4. It seems that it is certain that the company gave a bribe to the minister.
5. People believe that it is likely that George Bush will win the election.
6. It turned out that the committee had declared that he was incompetent.
7. People considered that it was not worthwhile talking about such trifles.
8. People said that there were two men missing.
9. It is likely that people will consider that she was responsible for the incident.
10. People believed that there had been two demonstrators killed.
11. People say that it is very difficult to work with him.
12. It seems that it is likely that it will be easy to convince her.
38. CONTROLLED REPHRASING

For each of the following sentences, give a paraphrase beginning with the word(s) indicated between
brackets.

38. A

1. People believed that someone had reported that her husband was dead. (Her husband...)
2. It is likely that he will give us no money. (He is not...)
3. The car must be washed and polished; that's what I want. (I Want...)
4. It is said that it is very interesting to talk to her. (She...)
5. I haven't seen Peter for two years. (It is...)
6. People were always finding fault with him or making fun of him. (He...)
7. He little suspected that I'd cracked the code. (Little...)
8. People considered that it was not worthwhile talking about the subject. (The subject...)
9. It appears that a difficulty arose the next day. (There...)
10. She's met my friend Peter before, which is surprising. (It...)
11. That they showed the documents to the ambassador is certain. (The ambassador...)
12. The President answered all their questions, and in doing so he was wise. (It...)
13. People feared that the boat had sunk. (The boat...)
14. They lost sight of a very important problem. (The problem...)
15. People believe that the peasants killed the two journalists. (The two journalists...)
16. John married Mark' sister, and Mark married John sister. (John and Mark...)
17. It seems that nobody is missing. (There...)
18. I bought this car (that I have now) 6 years ago. (I have...)
19. He did not reveal the Secret until the end of the trial. (Not...)
20. People thought that living with him was difficult. (He...)

38. B

1. People say that Marlowe wrote this play. (This play...)

2. It seemed that nothing was wrong. (There did...)
3. No one had ever paid her a compliment in her whole life. (Never...)
4. John is an orphan; he lost his parents when he was two. (John...)
5. Someone must take care of the patient. (The patient...)
6. They are likely to teach John a good lesson. (John...)
7. Bob is looking after John's car. (The car...)
8. He won the match, and that was to be expected. (He...)
9. Do you want us to fell this tree ? (Do...)
10. Would you be kind enough to do this for me 2 (Would...)
11. They heard the old woman cough. (The old woman...)
12. It's great fun to travel with Jane, isn't it 2 (Jane...)
13. More than anything, I want her to live. (What...)
14. I last had a holiday two years ago. (I...)
15. It is not necessary for you to sign your name. (You...)
16. Peter is sure to know the truth. (What...)
17. They constantly found fault with the leader. (The leader...)
18. They considered that the question was not interesting to study. (The question...)
19. Which of them will shoot the prisoner 2 (Which of them....)
20. This is a less difficult exercise. (This isn't...)
38. C

1. People say that the terrorists abducted the manager. (The manager...)
2. John thinks (that) it is probable that the new product will be banned. (John...)
3. John was very generous to give the old lady all that money. (It...)
4. It is certain that the jury will give the prize to Paul. (Paul...)
5. It is high time for you to ring her up. (It...)
6. It seems that they have taken account of my warning, doesn't it? (My warning...)
7. The President ordered the embargo to be lifted. (The President...)
8. Jane likes people to make a fuss of her. (Jane...)
9. The boy said he came from which university? (Which university...)
10. People believe that the Americans flew hundreds of troop to the front. (Hundreds...)
11. Bob is always criticizing Paul's work and Paul is always criticizing Bob's work. (Bob and Paul...)
12. It is a long time since I last had the pleasure to meet her. (I...)
13. She little suspected that we had discovered her secret. (Little...)
14. The passers-by saw a man cross the street. (A man...)
15. I'm writing this exercise on my best friend's computer. (The
computer...)
16. I last saw her a fortnight ago. (I...)
17. We shall have to take care of him for a month. (He...)
18. It is worthwhile taking notice of his advice. (His advice...)
19. Peter thinks you made no mistake. (Peter...)
20. This exercise is too easy for second year students. (This is ...)

38. D

1. That's exactly what we are paying you for ' (That's...)

2. It seemed that nobody had slept in the bed. (The bed...)
3. The rule was that men and women should sit apart. (The rule...)
4. It was five weeks since they had last heard from John. (John...)
5. It is certain that they will grant a scholarship to John. (John...)
6. You were not to make light of religion in those days. (Religion...)
7. It is worthwhile thinking about the other possibilities. (The...)
8. There are not as many first year students. (There...)
9. It's two years since they got divorced. (They have...)
10. Come on the outing with us, will you ? (Let...)
11. John did not ring me up again for two weeks. (It was...)
12. Bob could not make people understand him. (Bob...)
13. John was clever to think of that. (It...)
14. You'd been planning to stay with whom 2 (Whom....)
15. People believe that thousands of people are leaving the country. (There...)
16. Mary made Peter's acquaintance two years ago. (Mary...)
17. It seems that it is likely that John will win the prize. (The prize...)
18. I'd prefer you to keep quiet about it. (I'd...)
19. Peter said: 'I'll talk to Mary when I see her." (Peter said that...)
20. It is impossible to fail such an easy test. (So...)
38. E

1. Is anyone looking after the children , (Are...)

2. It seemed that no one lived in the house. (The...)
3. Some people say that millions of children are dying of starvation. (There...)
4. It is over two years since we last threw a party. (We...)
5. It is likely that they will tell the story to John later. (John...)
6. The public made much of him as an actor. (He...)
7. It is worthwhile commenting on the next two points. (The...)
8. We shall not have as many customers as before. (We...)
9. They arrived at a conclusion only after a long debate. (Only...)
10. Come to the cinema with us, will you ? (Let...)
11. They did not feed the prisoner again for ten hours. (It was...)
12. The twins could not make people hear them. (The twins...)
13. John was rude to make such a remark. (It...)
14. You'd be prepared to work for which of the two , (Which...)
15. It is imperative that everyone should be kept informed. (It...)
16. Mary got engaged to Peter six months ago, didn't she ?
17. It seems that it is certain that John will raise objections. (John...)
18. I'd prefer you to ring him up yourself. (I'd...)
19. On Sunday, Bob said: 'I saw Mary a couple of days ago.(On Sunday...)
20. It is not easy to pass such a technical test. (So...)

38. F

1. People say that it is very interesting to talk to him. (He...)

2. It's incredible for Bob to be so stingy. (It...)
3. It seems that nobody slept in this bed. (This bed...)
4. People think that the police arrested dozens of demonstrators. (There...)
5. It seems that it is certain that they will choose our solution. (Our...)
6. He showed no sign of emotion until she had gone. (Not...)
7. It was considered that commenting upon such poems was not worthwhile. (Such...)
8. That they gave him the money is not likely. (He...)
9. It's five years since I last saw her. (I...)
10. John was foolish to believe that. (It...)
11. The players are warming up. (What...)
12. It turned out that they had declared he was incompetent. (He...)
13. It (so) happens that one of them is here. (There...)
14. They didn't pay attention to his remarks, did they ? (His...)
15. People fear that the dog bit several children. (Several...)
16. The man drove away in Peter's car. (The car...)
17. Your husband was very brave to stand up to them. (It...)
18. It is worthwhile insisting on this point. (This point...)
19. People say that the man's attempt failed. (The man...)
20. It was ten years since anyone had last used the machine. (The machine...)
38. G

1. Mary believed that someone had reported that the enemy had killed John. (John...)
2. It is certain that the jury will give the first prize to Bob. (Bob...)
3. Did you get the mechanic to change the oil-filter? (Did...)
4. You mustn't tell them our secret under any circumstances. (Under...)
5. The people present saw someone come out of the bank. (Someone...)
6. John was kind to lend me a hand. (It is...)
7. People say that the police arrested dozens of demonstrators. (There...)
8. It seems to be very pleasant to talk with John, doesn't it? (John ...)
9. He believed (that) there was someone in the house. (He...)
10. It is ten years since they pulled down the church.(The church...)
11. Someone is looking into the question. (The question...)
12. We have lost track of the document, haven't we? (The document...)
13. I'd rather be examined by Doctor Brown. (I'd rather...)
14. You and John talked about what, on that occasion? (What...)
15. The man drove away in Peter's car. (The car...)
16. We shall have to make room for the computer. (The computer...)
17. If we'd taken notice of this, nothing would have happened. (Had this...)
18. She lived in her own house. (The house...)
19. It is surprising for you to know about it. (It...)
20. This exercise is so easy that everybody will get a good mark. (This is...)

38. H

1. The young girl had done nothing of the sort, ever. (Never...)
2. People believe that a death squad threw the body in the river. (The body...)
3. Jane married Betty's brother, and Betty married Jane's brother. (Jane and Betty...)
4. People fear that the dog bit several children. (Several children...)
5. I wish we'd already finished the job. (I...)
6. Would you like the choir to sing this hymn for the ceremony? (Would...)
7. Your husband was very brave to stand up to them. (It...)
8. It is worthwhile insisting on this point. (This point...)
9. People say that the man's attempt failed. (The man...)
10. It was ten years since anyone had last used the machine. (The machine...)
11. It must be that an incident occurred. (There...)
12. I want you all to obey my orders. (I...)
13. The dog was not wearing its collar but another dog's collar. (The collar...)
14. They caught hold of his suggestion immediately, didn't they? (His suggestion...)
15. It is likely that the surgeon will not operate on the patient tomorrow. (The patient...)
16. I prefer you to come back later. (What...)
17. She's working for two American companies. (The companies...)
18. He made such a bad impression that they dismissed him at once. (So...)
19. They are making a new attempt to repair the booster. (A new attempt...)
20. The exercise they gave us was too difficult. (We...)
39. MULTIPLE CONTROLLED REPHRASING

For each of the following sentences, give the number of paraphrases required, using the leads
suggested between brackets.

1. Sherlock Holmes is investigating a mysterious case.

(a mysterious case... what... the case...)
2. Someone reported that the terrorists had executed the hostage.
(the terrorists... the hostage... it...)
3. That the spy showed the documents to the ambassador is virtually certain.
(the ambassador... it... the documents... the spy...)
4. Nobody, it seems, lives in this house.
(it... this house... nobody... it doesn't... there... there doesn't...)
5. People believe that ten soldiers are missing.
(it... what... ten soldiers... people... there...)
6. They paid attention to the crucial problems.
(the crucial problems... attention... the problems...)
7. It seems that it is likely that they will make fun of your objections.
(they... your objections... it... what...)
8. That the manager will offer the job to Bob is likely.
(it... the manager... the job... what... Bob...)
9. People say that to work with him is very difficult.
(it... he... to work...)
10. People think that the two sides made little progress at the conference.
(it... little... people do... the two sides... there...)
11. People considered that talking about such subjects was not worthwhile.
(it... it was not... talking... such subjects... people didn't...)
12. If they had known he was a spy, they would never have given the documents to him.
(had they... if they... had he... never... he... the documents... they... had it...)
40. FREE MULTIPLE REPHRASING

For each of the sentences listed below, give as many paraphrases as you possibly can, using the same
lexical items (i.e. the same vocabulary) as in the original sentences.

1. The police are looking for a red car.

2. That John will win the contest is likely.

3. People believe that Graham Bell invented the telephone.

4. They made fun of his ridiculous objections.

5. He went across a wide river swimming.

6. It seems that nobody was here at the time.

7. They came to a satisfactory conclusion.

8. It is likely that they will give the job to Peter.

9. His wife believed that the radio had reported that he was dead.

10. It happened that they had lost sight of an important problem.

11. My parents considered that talking about such trifles was not worthwhile.

12. Someone opened the door by kicking it, suddenly.

13. The police have looked into numerous complaints this month.

14. People fear that the terrorists executed the hostage yesterday.

15. Everybody said that to work with him was easy.

16. Nobody, it seems, lives in this house.

17. That his constituents will elect him again, he considers, is virtually certain.

18. To travel in this car is so comfortable!

19. People believe that thousands of refugees are leaving Vietnam.

20. Everybody considered him as a genius.

FURTHER SUGGESTION A : PRESUPPOSITION

Express as clearly as you can what is, in a very general sense, implied or presupposed etc. by
each of the following sentences.

1. Peter used to smoke cigars.

2. My brother was to have become a doctor.
3. Who were you talking to a moment ago?
4. Stop complaining about everything!
5. Peter has injured his ankle.
6. Why on earth didn't you tell the headmaster about the theft?
7. If I could drive, I could teach you.
8. I wish I could afford the expense.
9. Peter is even taller than Bob.
10. You needn't have called him on the phone.
11. I told you he would do something about it!
12. Who did invite that man to the party, then?
13. If I had enough money, I would buy an E-type Jaguar.
14. You should have warned me in time.
15. Philip politely pretended not to have heard this remark.
16. I've worked hard this morning.
17. Her father tried to pretend that nothing unusual had happened.
18. Bob is not so tall as Peter.
19. I'm sorry. Nobody told me your father was dead.
20. You can't smoke in here.
21. The situation is improving, actually.
22. I had meant to tell you.
23. He was an invalid all his life. / He's been an invalid all his life.
24. . I've put coal on the fire / I've been putting coal on the fire.
25. The two thugs almost killed him.
26. I lived in New York for years.
27. Why should I do anything to help him?
28. Had I known that before, I would not have made a fool of myself.
29. She went to Spain that year, as did my wife.
30. They talked him out of writing a letter of protest.
31. He has written several novels.
32. Who has been eating this apple-pie?
33. The Romans thought the Earth was flat.
34. I've been living in Bradford for 25 years.
35. I lived in Bradford for 25 years.
36. At least two languages are spoken by all the people in this room.
37. I'm telling you: you shall write this report before you go.
38. It wasn't half cold down there in the night.
39. I wish I'd been with you at the time.
40. It's high time we did something to help them.
41. They resumed work in the afternoon.
42. Her parents only promised to rent a studio for her.
43. Her parents only promised to rent a studio for her.
44. When did you stop beating your wife?
FURTHER SUGGESTION B: CONFIRMATION TAGS

Add to each of the following sentences a tag question to confirm/check information or ask for
agreement.

1. You're disappointed by these exercises.

2. Mark's in love with Mary.
3. She's got plenty of money.
4. You want me to help them.
5. She knows I'm here.
6. They'd like to buy that house.
7. They can afford to pay the price.
8. You managed to solve the problem.
9. Mark didn't know what the code was.
10. She'd like to have a new car.
11. He will appreciate our help.
12. Peter won't accept the deal.
13. I'm not responsible for that disaster.
14. Politicians can't do anything about it.
15. There's a taxi waiting outside.
16. It rains very often in winter.
17. Keep quiet for a while.
18. He'd refuse to retire.
19. He'd refused to retire.
20. You could have warned me.
21. I wouldn't be accepted.
22. You should be more careful.
23. He's working very hard.
24. He's been working very hard.
25. Let's go to the theatre tonight.
26. Let the poor boy free.
27. There should be a comma here.
28. He's got plenty of money.
29. He got plenty of money.
30. There used to be an apple-tree here.
31. He'd been working very hard.
32. That's what you want.
33. It would be foolish to believe him.
FURTHER SUGGESTION C : ELLIPSIS IN NEWSPAPER HEADLINES

Convert the following newspaper headlines (which use telegraphic style known as headlinese)
into fully explicit and grammatically correct sentences:

1. 9 die in Japan gas leak.

2. Jordan rejects talks bids.
3. Iranian newspaper publishes draft of Constitution.
4. Time for international initiative.
5. Irish police torture claim.
6. Dictators annoyed by human rights call.
7. Large profit, so coal prices to go up.
8. Africa force to leave Zaire by end of June.
9. U.S. confusion over human rights protests.
10. Carter veto blow to nuclear hopes.
11. Cuban troops reported in Eritrea.
12. Twenty reported killed in plane crash.
13. Three Americans reported freed by Vietnamese.
14. Carter neutron bomb decision expected.
15. U.K. firemen's strike in fourth week.
16. Nkomo, Mogabe asked to U.S. for Rhodesia talks.
17. Soviet trials seen likely.
18. Cold weather reported easing over Eastern U.S.
19. Spanish General accused of falsification of record.
20. Egypt to try 42 indicted in plot to topple Sadat.
21. Waterford boy, 8, saves sister’s life.
22. Motorcyclist dies in hit-and-run crash.
23. Romania, Bulgaria face delay in joining Schengen.
24. Squad Helps Dog Bite Victim.
25. McDonald’s Fries the Holy Grail for Potato Farmers.
26. Google Fans Phone Expectations by Scheduling Android Event.
27. UK says confident will be cleared of foot and mouth.
28. Police smash people-smuggling network.
29. Three die in motorway incident.
30. Sarkozy to face trial over funding for failed 2012 French presidential campaign.
FURTHER SUGGESTION D : ELLIPSIS IN COLLOQUIAL USAGE

The following sentences are obviously incomplete, though of a type extremely common in
every day conversation. Put the missing elements back in.

1. Beg your pardon ?

2. Looks like rain.
3. Had a nice trip ?
4. Can't see why you shouldn't speak your mind.
5. Serves you right.
6. Told you so.
7. Sounds quite reasonable to me.
8. Ought to be some tea left in the pot.
9. Know what I mean?
10. Doesn't make any difference.
11. Must be a mistake somewhere.
12. Sorry I didn't remember to pick you up.
13. Nice to see you.
14. Looking for anybody ?
15. Want a bet?
16. Too good to be true.
17. Got any objection?
18. No wonder he failed his exam.
19. No point in staying here any longer.
20. Pleased to have met you.
21. See you tomorrow.
22. Too bad you can't afford to stay.
23. Afraid I won't help you.
24. Satisfied ? Still suspecting me?
25. Better be careful next time.
26. Found something you fancy?
27. Nice talking to you.
28. Not that I dislike him, mind you.
29. Gonna sell my house one of these days.
30. Never seen him before.
31. Keep my fingers crossed for you.
32. Anything else?
33. Odd he didn't turn up for the meeting.
34. Course I know her. Pity she's such a drag.
35. Trouble is, can't see what I could do about it.
36. Very silly of them! Kept me waiting for hours on end.
37. Something wrong? Anything the matter?
38. Finished your tea? Want some more ?
39. Come to think of it, never heard him mention his name. You sure he's not some sort of
a spy?
40. Chap was telling me about Peter the other day... got a nasty shock...must have been a
rather unpleasant experience.
41. All very quiet upstairs...Not a Sound...Wonder what the children are up to...Think
they're sleeping ?
42. Something fishy here...makes me feel creepy...bet we're in for a bad time.
FURTHER SUGGESTION E : FAULTY AND SUB-STANDARD ENGLISH

Rephrase (reword) each of the following sentences in correct standard English.

1. I shall hope to see you next week.

2. It looks like as if it would rain.
3. Just do like I do.
4. He looked at the man's face, who was asleep in the corner.
5. Between you and I, he's got no reason to complain.
6. My sister and me always go to the cinema when there's a new film on.
7. He ain't got no right to treat me like this.
8. She was telling me about a variety act what she'd seen on television.
9. He talks good English.
10. Either the head or the legs is injured.
11. We don't want no trouble-makers here.
12. He went to the manager's office to ask for a rise, who said he would consider the matter.
13. He acted like he knew what you was up to.
14. My brother does not speak Spanish, and nor do I.
15. The fellow as came this morning ain't got no manners.
16. He wore another cap to mine.
17. The villagers assembled together in front of the church.
18. He became to be known as a scrupulously conscientious man.
19. The two best novels are the two first on the list.
20. Fortunately, the number of people on board was fewer than usual.
21. One can only guess as to how he came to know about this.
22. The two brothers are both alike.
23. I can't seem to settle down to anything this afternoon.
24. This is a cheap price to pay for such a bargain.
25. Born in 1850, a part of his education was received at Eton.
26. Being stolen, the Bank of England refused to honour the note.
27. Looking out for a theme, several crossed his mind.
28. Calling upon him last Summer, he kindly offered to give me his copy.
29. Having left daughters only, the property was sold for £ 135,000.
30. Though fighting bravely, his defeat was imminent.
31. While fighting, a mist rendered the combatants indistinguishable.
32. We know what each other are doing.
33. Did you notice anything peculiar about the manner of these three?
34. There are trees on either side of the road.
35. It does not mean that either of them were guilty.
36. Bob and Mary remained silent, either knew what the other thought.
37. Neither of the boys were at school that day.
38. This wallet is not mine. It's somebody's else's.
39. It is essential that you must come to the meeting.
40. Do you ever expect to see him again?
41. We have every confidence in him.
42. Bob, Paul and Peter met at the former's place to make some new arrangements.
43. I'd like a hot cup of cocoa.
44. The mother of the boy's attitude was unreasonable.
45. That's the woman you saw this morning's daughter.
46. I want to get away from it all, if you see how I mean.
47. Do you want your hair cutting?
48. There is a typing error in the last but one sentence.
49. There were less people at the meeting than we expected.
50. He looked like he'd seen a ghost.
51. As much as twenty members have resigned.
52. You and myself will see to the preparation.
53. They entrusted the documents to yourself.
54. Herself and himself will soon be getting married.
55. I don't like these kind of books.
56. Peter is liable to refuse your offer.
57. The woman spoke very lowly.
58. This umbrella was the most cheapest I could find.
59. Peter has done the most part of the work.
60. The old lady was much unkind to the young girl.
61. Neither Bob, nor Peter nor many of their friends has a gift for languages.
62. He had no more got into bed than he heard the phone ring again.
63. Bob doesn't speak German, nor I neither.
64. I don't know nothing about it.
65. He's one of those chaps who plays a lone hand.
66. We only heard it yesterday.
67. No one has probably seen you - so you can go home in peace.
68. Oxford must heartily be congratulated on their victory.
69. He was the best cricketer of all others.
70. He didn't ought to have done it, had he?
71. I should have liked to have gone to the cricket match.
72. Why don't you boys sit some place else?
73. His sentimental contact with Austria has been very different from that of Hitler's.
74. That depends on the answer to the question as to what with they are cut.
75. The service ended by a prayer.
76. Last year, the number of cars made in the country was equal as the number of cars imported.
77. My social background is not very different than his.
78. You and me will go now.
79. He is a notability since he has written that book.
80. Those who walk in their sleep have seldom or ever the most distant recollection that they
have been dreaming at all.
81. I don't know why I did that exactly.
82. He is some better today.
83. He used to continually refer to the subject.
84. Still more yet is to be said for a strong defensive force.
85. That is why Rugby is such a much better game than Association.
86. Such of my acquaintances who are familiar with the problem don't think it is easy to solve.
87. That would leave me with twenty hours left.
88. Never once did he appear to glance back.
89. Dwarfs in all ages have ever been objects of interest.
90. I was there two weeks since.
91. It was easier than what he thought.
92. The sooner that this is altered, the better.
93. There still remains a few wilderness areas on the continent.
94. He cut the cake into two halves.
95. But that I did see, sir, as plain as what I see you now.
96. Whom do you think stole the money?
97. The whole three of them came to see me last night.
98. The letter had been written on plain white paper, and the envelope was yet less distinctive.
99. - You are sure it was John's voice you heard? - Oh, yes, sir, whose else's could it be?
100. She would best avoid such a marriage.
REPHRASING

EXERCISES

SUGGESTED

SOLUTIONS
1. NEGATIONS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. We haven't got much bread left.

2. There were few people at the meeting.
3. I don't think he will come.
4. He doesn't smoke any longer.
5. It's unlikely/not likely that he will come.
6. He can't stay.
7. We've got too few books.
8. Peter is not as clever as Bob.
9. She's rich enough to buy a house.
10. You will not pass the exam unless you work very hard.
11. We haven't got enough milk to make a cake.
12. Don't let's/Let us not take the umbrella, then.
13. Neither of them accepted the offer.
14. This is too short an explanation.
15. They hardly ever go out.
16. It doesn't seem he is at home.
17. Will she come? I think not.
18. He was nowhere to be found.
19. I rarely/seldom go to the pictures.
20. Nobody can deny this.
21. This exercise is rather boring.
22. Not only did he buy a car, but also a trailer.
23. She was quite unpleasant.
24. This is not as difficult an example.
25. I don't imagine she will be pleased.
26. He never remembered to feed the dog.
27. I don't think he will be any the worse for it.
28. It seems he doesn't want to go/leave. It doesn't seem he wants to go/leave.
29. Now that he is poor, he's got fewer friends.
30. - Did she know what was in store for her? - I don't suppose so.
31. Not once did he look our way.
32. I don't want you to accept the offer.
? I want you not to accept the offer.
33. We've got too little information on the subject.
34. I haven't got as much work to do these days.
35. Hardly had he closed the door when the phone rang.
36. He didn't allow them either to leave or to complain.
37. I didn't see him again for ten years.
38. He hasn't eaten anything for three days.
39. I haven't met him for two months.
40. I think the lid was not on the tin. / I don't think the lid was on the tin.
41. They made him take his hat off.
42. Provided was originally as much of a participle as Providing is.
2. TIME, TENSES and TIME ADJUNCTS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. John has been working since 8 o’clock / for 4 hours. / He started working 4 hours ago.
2. Paul has been sleeping for 3 hours / since 9 o’clock. He went to sleep 3 hours ago.
3. I have had this car since January 1982 / for 6 years. / I bought this car 6 years ago.
4. Jane has been ill since last Sunday / for 5 days. / She was taken ill 5 days ago.
5. Bill Clinton has been President of the United States since 1992 / since 1992. He was elected 2
years ago.
6. I haven't seen him since the beginning of this month / for a month. I last saw him a month ago.
7. We've been living in this house for 6 months / since last July. We moved in 6 months ago.
8. I've known her since she was 22 / for 6 years. I made her acquaintance 6 years ago.
9. I've been up since 9 / for 2 hours. I got up 2 hours ago.
10. I haven't been to the theatre for 4 years / since I was 18. I last went to the theatre 4 years ago.
11. John became a teacher 6 years ago. He's been a teacher for 6 years. He's been a teacher since
1990. Next year he will have been a teacher for 7 years.
12. I haven’t seen Mary for 5 years.
13. Mr Brown has been dead for 2 years.
14. I haven't heard from him for over a year. I last heard from him over a year ago.
15. I hadn't heard from him for over a year. I had last heard from him over a year before.
16. I last went to Paris 2 years ago. I last met him 2 years ago.
17. John had been in the army for 12 years when I met him 6 years ago.
18. John's been waiting for you for half an hour.
19. My wife first drove this car in April this year and it’s Xmas time.
20. It was ten years before I saw him again.
21. John and Mary had been married for 4 years when they divorced 10 years ago..
22. The miners have been on strike for over a week.
23. I haven't seen John since the Sunday before last. I last saw John over a week ago.
24. I met John 4 years ago. He had been living in London for 4 years.
John came to live in London 8 years ago and I met him 4 years later.
John left London 2 years ago. He had been living in London for 6 years.
3. ANAPHORIC DEVICES - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. The climate of France is milder than that of Russia.

2. This book is not the one I’m looking for.
3. I like the old coat, but I think I'll take the new one.
4. I’m short of money. Can you lend me some?
5. The last novel he wrote was his best.
6. The estate would now be his own.
7. Bob’s house is larger than Peter’s, but it is smaller than yours.
8. You want to see some cookery books? Well, we’ve got several on this shelf.
9. These jackets all suit you quite well. Which (of them ) will you have?
10. Mary and Jane are great friends. Both (of them) were in St John’s College at Oxford.
11. Peter and Bob hate each other Peter but Paul only hates himself.
12. Do you prefer English or Australian apples?
13. - Will John pass the written test? - Yes, I think he will.
14. John and Mark are in love with each other's sister.
15. Our dog had a collar on which was not its own.
16. You take that bike and I’ll take this (one).
17. He is ill, and he has been so for a long time.
18. Pick the ripe plums and leave the green ones.
19. I don’t write poetry any more, but I used to (do/do so) when I was your age.
20. Jimmy and Alan get on well (together/with each other).
21. If it’s sugar you’re looking for, there isn’t any left.
22. We've run out of tea: we'l1 have to do without unless we borrow some from the neighbours.
23. She always parks her car on the lawn, although I've told her not to (do so).
24. Take this cup away and bring me another one.
25. I find it hard to get up early. I'm not used to it.
26. Peter is English and Paul is French. They both speak Spanish, but neither of them speaks
German.
27. Bob knows my parents quite well. He is an old friend of them.
28. Which boy do you mean ? The one with the dark glasses?
29. If you wanted me to drive you to Manchester, why didn’t you ask me to? I didn’t even know you
wanted to go there.
30. I can’t play tennis, though I would love to. My doctor advised me not to.
31. Mary’s house is the first on the left.
32. This computer saves me a lot of time. I don’t know what I would do without it.
33. This excuse is not good enough. We must try and find a better one.
34. Peter, Paul and Mary are English. None of them speak French.
35. - Did John pass his final exam? - No, I am afraid he didn't / I'm afraid not.
36. Give me this nail and bring me another two.
37. Mary and Paul blamed each other for the incident.
38. The problem of inflation and that of unemployment are closely related. That of inflation is an
economic one and that of unemployment is a human one. But you can’t solve either (of them)
without tackling the other.
4. REPORTED SPEECH AND TENSE AGREEMENT - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. Peter said he was very pleased.

2. The twins said they were extremely grateful.
3. Mary said that John would come to the party.
4. Mark said he might never come back.
5. Peter said that Bob had promised to re-consider his position.
6. Peter said he could easily convince Joan.
7. He said I must be tired.
8. Mary said she knew David Williams quite well.
9. Peter said he daren’t smoke / he didn’t dare to smoke in front of his parents.
10. Mary explained her mother had died the previous month.
11. The man said he was staying there until the next day.
12. Paul declared he had seen Bob two days before.
13. Mary said she had been in London for five days.
14. Socrates said he was not guilty.
15. He said to me that if he knew the answer by then, he would tell me.
16. She said that John might have to take the exam again.
17. The young man said that the chairman must resign.
18. She said she wished she knew.
19. Peter said that Mary (had) arrived on Tuesday.
20. Peter admitted that he had been in love with her when she was 18.
21. Socrates said that virtue is knowledge.
22. He said he would be leaving two weeks later.
23. He said he hadn’t seen her since he had been to London 5 years before.
24. Mary promised he would talk to Peter as soon as he saw him.
5. FROM DIRECT TO INDIRECT QUESTIONS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. Tell me where you went after the film.

2. Tell me where they hid the money.
3. Tell me what she found in the top drawer.
4. Tell me what you knew about her health condition.
5. Tell me how much the boy stole from the cash register.
6. Tell me whether they caught him eventually.
7. Tell me who you spoke to on the phone last night.
8. Tell me where the body lay when you arrived.
9. Tell me how much money she laid aside every month.
10. Tell me which of these dogs bit you.
11. Tell me where you shot these pheasants.
12. Tell me why you flung dirt at him.
13. Tell me what you thought you would find in that drawer.
14. Tell me what he drank before he took the drug.
15. Tell me why your father felled that beautiful oak-tree.
16. Tell me which of you saw the burglar.
17. Tell me whether his inquiries threw any light on the matter.
18. Tell me what you sawed this huge log with.
19. Tell me what you did with yourself over the weekend.
20. Tell me why you tore up the contract.
21. Tell me why she broke off the engagement.
22. Tell me why you struck him in the face.
23. Tell me why the Pilgrim Fathers fled to America.
24. Tell me why they beat and hanged the poor old man.
6. MULTIPLE CONSTRUCTION VERBALS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. You should not give your child such a lot a sweets.

2. After dinner, he always offered his guests a glass of old port.
3. We shall provide the committee with the necessary information.
4. They let go all the prisoners.
5. The boy blamed the broken vase on his sister.
6. She envied John for his success.
7. Mary sent a long letter to her aunt Jane.
8. The peasants accepted to supply food for the army.
9. Peter told only Jane about the secret. / Peter told the secret only to Jane.
10. His uncle had already explained the problem to the teacher. (unchanged)
11. They served the newcomers (with) some exquisite food.
12. John is likely to meet them at the wedding reception.
13. His brain always teemed with new ideas.
14. We'll have to buy a new bike for little Johnny.
15. John is certain to raise objections.
16. He crammed summer clothes into the suitcase and put it away.
17. The old man hit the roof of my car with his stick.
18. The workers were loading tons of bricks (on) to an old truck.
19. It's a problem I am not familiar with.
20. I am not clear as to whether they really like her.
21. She was suspicious of their attitude.
22. It was wise of John to give up the fight. / John was wise in giving up the fight.
23. The keeper feeds the lions with large quantities of meat.
24. I am not absolutely certain of it.
25. They had to substitute margarine for butter. (different verbal!)
7. DECOMPOSITION OF COMPLEX SENTENCES - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

N.B. The difference between it and that can be considered as unessential.

1. Bob and I are the best of friends. She is fully aware of it/that.
2. He would succeed. He felt quite certain of/about it.
3. We had come to the rescue. They were thankful for it.
4. There was too much noise. She rightly complained about it.
5. I saw her suffering. I was shocked at/by that.
6. You were completely forgotten. I am ashamed of that.
7. I have finished at last. I'm pleased with that.
8. You like my new house. I'm glad of that.
9. He saw us at the Tate Gallery. He was astonished by that.
10. She will be competent for the job. I'm quite confident about/of that.
11. We were reconciled again. He simply rejoiced over/about it.
12. We were still at war. Our friend's death reminded us of that.
13. She finally accepted my offer. I am most happy about/with that.
14. She signed the cheque. He forced her into it.
15. I was able to help you. I'm proud of it.
16. I'm late. I'm sorry about it.
17. The price of oil will have to go up. They all agree on/about that.
18. He consented to something. He gave us all the figures..
19. Something is certain. Peter will pass the exam.
20. Peter is certain of/about something, namely that he will pass the exam.
8. SUBSTITUTIONS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

47. None of them knew the answer.

48. I came across him in Berkeley two months ago.
49. He looked as though he wanted to say something.
50. Don't let us tell him about this arrangement.
51. He no longer goes to church. / He doesn't go to church any more.
52. Peter got a suit made last month.
53. I'm glad you've found someone to talk with.
54. He's been ill these last few days.
55. She thinks herself very subtle.
56. There's nothing but pedantry in his article.
57. I would rather go than stay.
58. I needed some encouragement but there was none /not any.
59. He can't bear it when he is found fault with.
60. I haven't seen him up to now.
61. I'm sorry I wasn't able to come to the meeting last night.
62. They are proud of being American citizens.
63. He says you don't need/don't have to go if you don't feel like it.
64. Peter is fond of crime novels, so am I.
65. Peter reads a lot of detective stories, so do I.
66. The floor needs to be scrubbed and polished.
67. He was sure of knowing the answer.
68. He didn't dare to talk to her.
69. It's very nice seeing you again.
70. They had no fewer than six servants.
71. Whom were you talking to?
72. All the people that knew him liked him.
73. It was so sad a story that they all cried.
74. He's very busy right now but I'll invite him all the same.
75. Some of the hostages will be released.
76. Some twenty skiers were buried by an avalanche last year.
77. They do not consider that part of the job to be important / that that part of the job is...
78. John was wise in leaving early.
79. Every time I see him, he tries to borrow money from me.
80. I'll invite anyone (that) you suggest.
81. The cement was slightly cracked, but apart from that in good order.
82. He's finding that it is very difficult to adapt, which is not surprising.
83. I asked her whether she was ready.
84. He knew nothing at all about the transaction.
85. You must pop the key into the letter box before you leave the house.
86. You haven't changed at all.
87. If she gave me his address, I would be able to send him a letter.
88. I don't object to his becoming a member.
89. He visited us before flying to Russia.
90. We haven't invited many guests, so we won't need much food.
91. The whole country is covered with snow.
92. How much are the birds? - Ten pounds each.
9. SUBORDINATORS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

N.B. ALSO TRY TO DO THIS EXERCISE THE OTHER WAY ROUND.

26. I know that you don't appreciate my contributions.

27. The boy whom/that you are talking about is very lazy.
28. If he had come earlier, he could have helped us.
29. I still remember the day when he joked about it.
30. I quite remember the day that/which you mentioned.
31. This is probably the best example that I can think of.
32. I'm sure (of it) that he knows my mother.
33. This is the place that I like best.
34. This is the place where I was born.
35. If it were not for his financial support, we could not manage.
36. The reason that he gave was rather surprising.
37. During the talk show, he revealed the real reason why he won't travel to France.
38. He's so proud that even his friends criticize him.
39. I like the way in which he writes when he feels well.
40. I like the way that we took to the beach the other day.
41. The men who were in charge of the operation were caught by surprise.
42. The problems that/which arise from this decision will be difficult to solve.
43. It's time for us to get up and have our breakfast.
44. If I had known you were ill, I wouldn't have sent you that message.
45. John taught his wife how to drive.
46. What creates can also destroy.
47. The facts that/which were mentioned in the article published that year didn't prove that he
was wrong.
48. I still remember the day when he said that he would explain the problems that/which
were/had been solved by his team.
49. If he should refuse the offer, we'll tell the lady whom/that he works with that he is dishonest.
50. It's dishonest to tell your friends that there's something that is strange about the whole affair.
10. MODALS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

31. John may know the answer.

32. John can give you the answer.
33. Peter may have taken the money when he left.
34. Mary couldn't solve the problem.
35. Your friends could help you.
36. Your friends could have helped you.
37. Shall I shut the door?
38. Paul may have given them the wrong key.
39. If Mary were in charge of the operation, she couldn't cope.
40. John must be back home by now.
41. He shall leave immediately.
42. We must have taken the wrong road.
43. John might/may pass the exam after all.
44. Alright, I will help you.
45. May I buy you a drink?
46. Shall we try a different approach?
47. John must be more careful. / It is necessary that John should be more careful.
48. You needn't worry about his reaction.
49. The situation must have been rather difficult for his parents.
50. Try that new procedure. You might like it.
51. Perhaps we ought to pause for a moment.
52. It's understandable that he should/might be unwilling to help.
53. I think I ought to go if you don't mind.
54. I hope you may find this helpful.
55. John can't really contradict them.
56. You needn't worry about your future in the firm.
57. It's surprising that these birds should be kept in a cage.
58. You're always telling lies. I wish you would tell me the truth.
59. You shall wait here (whether you like it or not).
60. You warned him, but you needn't have done (so).
11. QUANTIFIERS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

31. Some day, they will see what I mean.

32. Every citizen must accept to abide by the law.
33. Few people know that he is also an artist.
34. Little information was made public on the subject.
35. John and his wife both like Paris.
36. John, his wife and their children all like Paris.
37. John and his wife earn 20000 Euros a month each.
38. All of those politicians are corrupt.
39. I think my decision had some effect.
40. She spoke to everyone at that party.
41. The operation, as it had been planned, had little chance of success.
42. Every cloud have a silver lining.
43. Many people have tried to climb that mountain, but few have succeeded.
44. John, Peter, Paul and Mary all work for MacroHard.
45. We went to Bingley, some 20 miles from Leeds.
46. Every time he comes to see us, he brings a present.
47. John and Mary love each other.
48. I've told her to come to see you if she wants anything.
49. That party is little more than a far-left fundamentalist movement.
50. That party is a little more than a far-left fundamentalist movement.
51. He works all week.
52. The members of that club hate one another.
53. Each county had its own dialect.
54. The twins did everything alike.
55. We had little chance of success.
56. He never seemed to do anything.
57. Then I give the report to the manager or the accountant, or anyone else.
58. There's almost no bread left.
59. Use any drug that is recommended, any time you feel exhausted.
60. I had nearly finished. But the operation had been none too easy.
12. TOPICALIZATION - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

For each of the following sentences, provide a paraphrase in which the underlined noun phrase will
become the main subject, and as a consequence a new topic.
Don't forget to make all other necessary arrangements (deletion and/or addition of certain elements,
word order changes).

31. The old lady was murdered by the maid.

32. Peter is certain to resign.
33. The meeting had to be adjourned.
34. Suddenly I was confronted with/by a savage-looking man.
35. This book is difficult to translate.
36. The wounded will be taken care of by the medical officer.
37. John had a book stolen (from him).
38. This point is worth investigating.
39. All the dictionaries are on the bottom shelf.
40. The branch broke under the weight of the boy.
41. This car is restful to travel in.
42. John turned out to have found the solution.
43. The solution turned out to have been found by John.
44. The young thug was arrested by the police.
45. The book sold for £ 22.50.
46. This wood can be polished bright.
47. Peter loathes John.
48. John rents a room from Mrs Johnson.
49. The present pleased Peter.
50. Paul is sure to have doubts on the subject.
51. Bob won £ 20 from John.
52. She fears him.
53. Peter sold a book to John.
54. John paid Peter £ 22.50 for the book.
55. Mr Brown left £20,000 to John.
56. Peter gave the information to John.
57. This shirt washes easily.
58. I paid a lot of money for this book.
59. Paul lent the book to John.
60. John was made to refund the money.
13. WORD ORDER CHANGES THAT DO NOT AFFECT MEANING -
SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. The man had suddenly pulled out a gun.

2. It is not likely that Bob will come.
3. We shall earn two thousand pounds each.
4. They are not very fond of Modern Jazz.
5. What precisely had they been talking about?
6. The matter had not been paid attention to.
7. The boys all passed their exams at the first sitting.
8. If he gets the job, John will be lucky.
9. Classical music I'm very keen on.
10. I don't think they know me.
11. The policeman rushed out again.
12. This is much too difficult a test for first-year students.
13. John and Mary both attended the meeting.
14. Whom would you like to go with tomorrow night?
15. He turned the light off.
16. His hesitant attitude was made fun of.
17. Never had I heard such a brilliant address.
18. After all, New Zealand was just as distant a place as Australia.
19. Anxious though I am to please her, I can't possibly go to London this weekend.
20. Which of them had the diamonds been stolen by?
21. Not under torture would I reveal the secret.
22. In the middle of the garden stood a statue of Sir Walter Raleigh.
23. The children were subjected to so severe a discipline that they rebelled.
24. He had rather a large house for a bachelor.
25. This is the student whom she was talking to when I saw her.
26. Hardly had they locked the safe when the bomb went off.
27. He pushed the swing-door open.
28. They let go all the prisoners.
29. This is too complicated a system for beginners like us.
30. Little was it suspected at the time that the President had erased the tapes.
31. There lay the dog, on the front lawn.
32. He has found a better solution than yours.
33. Down fell all the glasses.
34. They have now published production figures different from those given originally.
35. John keeps only one car.
36. At last, up went the balloon.
37. A man came that morning who wanted to see him.
38. He made his intention known the next day.
39. Not for all the money in the world would I venture there.
40. She saw it in quite a different way from ours.
14. SUBJECT INVERSIONS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. It is incredible that she should be so selfish.

2. It was very nice seeing her again.
3. It would be surprising for Peter to fail his exam.
4. There was no one in sight.
5. Up went the balloon at last.
6. In the background lay vast expanses of forest.
7. On the hill stood an old castle.
8. The next day there arose some difficulties.
9. 40 people were arrested by the police after the demonstration.
10. It is nice having you back with us.
11. Not until the end of the year did he give up hope.
12. There lay the body, on the kitchen floor.
13. At that point, there occurred an incident.
14. Should you find my umbrella, leave it with Bob.
15. Little did they think I knew the truth.
16. Out rushed one of the gangsters with a gun in his hand.
17. There crept a feeling of sadness over him.
18. No sooner had they left the room than the bomb went off.
19. It is odd your saying that.
20. Had you been more prudent, nothing would have happened.
15. EXCLAMATORY AND INTERROGATIVE SENTENCES -
SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. What exactly were they talking about?

2. Which of them were the diamonds stolen by ?
3. Whom did you lend your bicycle to ?
4. What a funny story he told us !
5. How tired you look !
6. Where you did you catch all these crabs ?
7. How small the world is !
8. What did you tip the shop-assistant for ?
9. What an easy exercise this is !
10. How stupid of me not to have told you !
11. When precisely will he come back home ?
12. How he snores at night !
13. What a lot of people there were in the streets!
14. Who(m) are you staying with at the moment ?
15. Who(m) did you go to the cinema with that night ?
16. Why did she break off the engagement ?
17. How I would like to be with her now !
18. How bitter this coffee tastes !
19. Whose car had John borrowed ?
20. What exactly did he Headmaster say ?
16. PASSIVE - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. The butler will probably be arrested by the inspector.

2. Your bottles of rum are likely to be confiscated (by the customs officer).
3. The steel industry is about to be nationalized (by the government).
4. The consequences will have to be faced (? by us).
5. Are you being attended to ?
6. The animals in this zoo are looked after by children.
7. These goods can't be flown to the U.S.A., can they ?
8. The new hospital is being built, isn't it ?
9. The Queen's speech was listened to by millions of people.
10. The partisan was being looked for by the Germans, wasn't he ?
11. That side of the problem was lost sight of, wasn't it ?
12. It is time the old system were/was done away with, isn't it ?
13. Teachers like to be looked up to by their pupils.
14. The matter never seems to be paid attention to.
15. That problem is going to be talked about, isn't it ?
16. He was made fun of by all his friends, wasn't he ?
17. Teen-agers don't like being talked down to.
18. Do you want the windscreen cleaned ?
19. He is said to be very rich.
20. The village clock was heard to strike twelve.
21. I have/I've been told that it's a local custom.
22. Get the carburettor looked at (by a mechanic).
23. It must be admitted (that) he was right, mustn't it ?
24. The office boy was offered a better job (by the manager).
A better job was offered to the office boy (by the manager).
25. They allowed themselves to be exploited (by their boss).
26. A man was seen to open the door.
27. There's a lot of work to be done.
28. You will have to eat what you are given.
You will have to eat what is given to you.
29. Don't let me be misunderstood |
30. I hate being stared at.
31. He managed to make himself understood.
32. All that is known about him is that he is a lorry driver.
33. She was made to refund all the money.
34. Which of you was the wall-paper chosen by ?
35. She doesn't like being found fault with.
36. Would you like this parcel registered ?
37. That trouble-maker will have to be got rid of.
38. All the patients can't possibly be taken care of (by the doctors).
39. Some witnesses saw a police van burnt by demonstrators.
Demonstrators were seen to burn a police van.
40. It is believed that the terrorists killed the hostage.
It is believed that the hostage was killed (by the terrorists).
The terrorists are believed to have killed the hostage.
The hostage is believed to have been killed (by the terrorists).
17. ΟΡΤΙΟΝΑL DΕLΕΤΙΟΝS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. I think he wants the parcel registered.

2. Never eat more than you have to.
3. Warned in time, he could have saved his life and his wife's as well.
4. It seems obvious she considers you guilty.
5. I think it will not be long before he realizes he has been swindled.
6. If necessary, Paul can always go to Aunt Jane's to do the gardening.
7. The only thing I know is I want you back by 7.
8. While at Cambridge University, I used to play rugby, but I’ve not played since.
9. There seems no difficulty about the plan suggested.
10. His father, a famous London doctor, was 70.
11. The government ruling the country now could do nothing new about inflation.
12. However attractive to other men, she’s not my type.
13. So that's the reason he’s been acting so strange.
14. We civil servants want the system changed.
15. We’ve been walking miles and miles, and she’s not said a word the last twenty minutes.
16. The people next door always quarrel on Sundays; it’s something awful.
17. The first thing I saw was the letter on the table.
18. When only a child of six, he won a thousand pounds in a quiz; though not very clever, he had an
extraordinary memory.
19. The two men, one a Norwegian, and the other a Dane, were awarded medals.
20. I can still remember the day we met, and the dress she was wearing.
21. That book you lent me is really the best ever written by Saul Bellow.
22. All the people travelling first class were killed: the train was going full speed when the accident
happened.
23. Mary has spoken to her parents and Peter will to his as soon as he can.
24. Rummaging in some old trunks in the attic, I came upon a toy train I used to play with when a
boy.
25. Asked whether he would come, he said he was afraid he wouldn’t.
26. He stood there, gun in hand, his face very pale.
27. He’s proud his proposal has been taken into consideration by the people on the committee.
28. Whether through laziness or not, he never wrote anything worth publishing.
29. The people in charge of the operation wish this done immediately.
30. The solution just mentioned is the best I can think of at present.
18. IT REPLACEMENT - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. Peter seems to be cross with you.

2. Daddy is likely to come home late. / Daddy is probable to come home late.
3. Mary is sure to accept our proposal.
4. The patient is certain to pull through.
5. I happen to know the fellow.
6. It seems to be going to snow.
7. I chanced to come across her diary.
8. There seems to have been a mistake.
9. That report is interesting to read.
10. This problem is hard to solve.
11. That subject is boring to talk about.
12. My uncle is very easy to live with.
13. My car is tiring to travel in.
14. She is very nice to talk to.
15. Ten people are reported to be missing.
16. Their leader is believed to be a Spaniard.
17. He is said to be seriously ill.
18. They are generally thought to be well-off.
19. He is known to be an American spy.
20. The theory has been proved (to be) wrong.
21. This book is worth reading.
22. This programme is worth listening to.
23. The view is pleasant to look at.
24. This article isn't easy to come by.
25. He is believed to be a traitor.
26. He is believed to have been a traitor.
27. He was believed to be a traitor.
28. He was believed to have been a traitor.
29. She was great fun to live with.
30. This couch is restful to lie on.
31. This problem is necessary to solve. This problem must/has to be solved.
32. Tony would have been difficult for John to beat.
33. Do you chance to have any French rolls?
34. There appears to have been a misunderstanding.
35. The money was found to have been stolen.
36. Sonatas are hard to play on this violin.
37. This violin is hard to play sonatas on.
38. There seems to have been no volunteer at the time.
39. Freedom is worth fighting for.
40. The plane is feared to have crashed in the Andes.
19. COMPLEX SENTENCES - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. My parents didn't allow me to go to the show last night.

2. I want you to show me the document.
3. They probably forced him to sign the letter.
They probably forced him into signing the letter.
4. Tell me where you hid the scroll.
5. I would like her to come to the party tomorrow.
6. I wonder whether she told Bob you had written to her father.
7. The chair you are sitting on has wet paint on it.
8. Honestly, I prefer you to come again some other day.
9. Do you want me to translate this text?
10. Do you mind if I open the window to let some fresh air in? / Do you mind my opening the
window to let some fresh air in?
11. They didn't let me pay for the meal.
12. The people he talks about in his book are all dead by now.
13. I always enjoy it when children sing Xmas carols at my door.
I always enjoy children singing Xmas carols at my door.
14. Nobody knew whether/if he felt disheartened.
15. The President wants the laws (to be) obeyed.
16. The people he lived in close contact with all disliked him.
17. They said they would have to find a new sponsor.
18. I saw him throw the letter into the waste paper basket.
19. Peter gave us all the details, which is surprising.
It is surprising that Peter should have given / for Peter to have given us all the details.
20. The general had ordered that the prisoners should be shot.
The general had ordered the prisoners to be shot.
21. They let him keep the money.
22. The doctor I was examined by was very young.
I was examined by a very young doctor.
23. He said that Bob must be rather disappointed.
24. The conditions we have to put up with are simply appalling.
25. The man he had passed the documents to was working for the C.I.A.
26. He can't bear being criticized.
27. I would like this work finished before Xmas.
28. They made him give the money back.
29. Mary said this book could be useful.
30. John said Bob would talk to Mary when she came at 9.
31. Although/Though his article is very long, it reads quite well.
Long as his article is, it reads quite well.
32. John promised me to give us a hand/that he would give us a hand.
33. Bob is positive he saw it in the paper.
34. What worried him was that Sylvia was alone. / It worried him for Sylvia to be alone. /
That Sylvia should be alone worried him. / It worried him that Sylvia should be alone.
35. It was John who paid money into the account.
36. You have no idea what a wonderful woman she is.
37. He heard the girl he was devoted to singing in her bath.
38. The company Bob is working for wish the job completed before next Sunday.
39. Can you tell me why the man she was living with left her?
40. The people I'm staying with don't like being disturbed while they sleep.
20. FROM FINITE TO NON-FINITE VERB PHRASES - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. Bob promised me to keep quiet.

2. Do you mind our borrowing your rackets?
3. She was surprised at meeting with a flat refusal.
4. Peter was sure of being right.
5. Bob promised me not to say a word.
6. Tell me where to get off.
7. I don't like her driving so fast.
8. She doesn't know who(m) to turn to.
9. He complained about your making a lot of noise.
10. Give me some soap to wash my hands with.
11. It is incredible for her to have taken the money.
12. The witness testified to seeing a man come out.
13. I don't know what to advise you to buy.
14. John was wise in accepting the offer.
15. He had no glass to drink out of.
16. They agreed with us on/about the cost of production being too high.
17. The last person to see him was the night porter.
18. There is no bed for your friend to sleep in.
19. It is high time for a new solution to be found.
20. Do you think she will object to my smoking ?
21. You may rely upon my being punctual.
22. They feared their leader to have been assassinated.
23. The first boy to wake up that morning was Peter.
24. He had no medicine to get relief from.
25. She found the jewels to have disappeared.
26. They wouldn't believe there to have been a mistake in the accounts.
27. He gave me a chair to sit on.
28. The only pupil to swear he had seen you was Jon.
29. They are thankful for our lending them a hand.
30. Bob considers himself to be a genius.
31. I'm sorry about being so late.
32. For there to be so many visitors is surprising. / It is surprising for there to be...
21. LOGICAL SUBJECTS AND OBJECTS - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

N.B. YOU CAN ALSO DO THIS EXERCISE THE OTHER WAY ROUND

1. That he should hesitate is only natural.

2. An unpleasant sensation crept over him.

3. That John will cancel the arrangements is likely.

4. The rocket went up with a bang.

5. They believed that he had embezzled a large sum of money.

6. Huge tapestries hung on the walls.

7. Today's paper is here.

8. People fear that the plane (has) crashed.

9. Having you back with us is nice.

10. That Peter will raise objections is sure.

11. People say that a team of experts have proved that the theory is wrong.

12. The doctor did not allow her to go back to work until the end of the year.

13. Several pages are missing in this book.

14. Several difficulties arose the next day.

15. People said that someone had reported that a bomb had killed him.

16. People believed that the board had easily accepted Mary.

17. For someone to speak five languages is unusual.

18. The soldiers marched over the bridge.

19. Your sister is there.

20. John is working very hard.

21. The police arrested several demonstrators.

22. That they considered (/would consider) that John was a traitor was likely.

23. A massive ship with three masts loomed on the horizon.

24. You were talking to a boy. That boy is a friend of mine.

25. People say that Mrs Thatcher (has) sent a long letter to Mr Bush.
33. AMBIGUOUS SENTENCES - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. Peter wants the report written by Paul.

1' Peter wants the report which was written by Paul/that Paul wrote.
1" Peter wants Paul to write the report.

2. She had punished herself and no one else.

2' She had punished no one but herself.
2" She had been punished by no one but herself.

3. He didn't like the children playing in the garden.

3' He didn't like the children who were playing in the garden.
3" He didn't like it when the children played in the garden.

4. What we teachers need is more interesting material.

4' We teachers need material that is more interesting.
4" Concerning interesting material, we teachers need more of it.

5. The man had been reported killed by the Germans.

5' The Germans had reported that the man had been killed.
5" It had been reported that the Germans had killed the man.

6. For her birthday, Mary Parker was given a book by George Eliot.
6' For her birthday, Mary Parker was given a book written by George Eliot.
6" For her birthday, George Eliot gave Mary Parker a book.

7. I would like the book illustrated by Harold Finn.

7' I would like the book that was illustrated by Harold Finn.
7" I would like Harold Finn to illustrate the book.

8. You don't know how good wine tastes.

8' You don't know what good taste wine has/how good the taste of wine is.
8" You don't know what good wine tastes like.

9. Your remarks hurt his feelings more than mine.

9' Your remarks hurt his feelings more than my remarks did.
9" Your remarks hurt his feelings more than my feelings.

10. The house John had built was very big.

10' John had built a house which was very big.
10" John had/got a house built (by someone else), and it was very big.

11. It would have been better for him to stay outside.

11' To stay outside would have been better for him.
11" It would have been better (for us?) if he had stayed outside.
12. What annoyed Paul was being deliberately ignored by his friends.
12' What annoyed Paul was that he was being deliberately ignored by his friends.
12" Paul's friends were deliberately ignoring what annoyed him.

13. This the pipe my father used to smoke.

13' This the pipe my father would smoke (e.g. when he was alive).
13" This the pipe my father used when he wanted to smoke.

14. Visiting relatives can be a nuisance.

14' To visit relatives can be a nuisance.
14" Relatives who are on a visit/visiting you can be a nuisance.

15. John may not attend the proceedings.

15' John is not allowed to attend the proceedings.
15" Perhaps John will not attend the proceedings.

16. Let us go to the pictures.

16' Allow us to go to the pictures.
16" I suggest we go to the pictures, you and I.

17. She does work for the hospital.

17' She works/does a certain amount of work for the hospital.
17" It is not true that she does not work for the hospital.

18. They found the boy missing after the air-raid.

18' They found the boy who was missing after the air-raid.
18" They found that the boy was missing after the air-raid.

19. Peter had the book that you wanted taken out of the library.
19' Peter had someone take out of the library the book that you wanted.
19" Peter had the book that you wanted someone to take out of the library.

20. Mary hid the car keys, so her husband couldn't go out.
20' Mary hid the car keys, and as a result her husband wasn't able to go out.
20" Mary hid the car keys, in order to make it impossible for her husband to go out.

21. The ghost appeared to talk to his son.

21' The ghost seemed to talk to his son.
22" The ghost made an appearance in order to talk to his son.

22. He left his wife to answer the door.

22' He let his wife answer the door.
22" He left his wife in order to answer the door.

23. His wife bought a new hat, which didn't please him.
23' His wife bought a new hat, and that hat didn't please him.
23" His wife bought a new hat, and her doing that didn't please him.

24. At 7 o'clock, all the shops were closed.

24' At 7 o'clock, none of the shops were open.
24" At 7 o'clock, they closed all the shops.

25. John had several watches stolen from the shop.

25' John had several watches which had been stolen from the shop.
25" John had someone steal/got someone to steal several watches from the shop.
26'" Someone stole several watches from John's shop.

26. The villagers turned out to know the vicar better.

26' The villagers came out (of their houses) in order to get to know the vicar better.
26" It turned out that the villagers knew the vicar better.

27. He went to sleep on the sofa.

27' He fell asleep on the sofa.
27" He went to the sofa to sleep (on it).

28. Water supplies have been cut off for two weeks.
28' Water supplies have been cut off/not available these last two weeks.
28" They have just cut off water supplies for the next two weeks.

29. John wise when he married Jane.

29' It was wise of John to marry Jane.
29' John was wise at the time when he married Jane (but he is not, now)

30. The teachers were ordered to stop drinking on the campus.

30' The teachers were ordered to stop people (students) from drinking on the campus.
30" Someone ordered the teachers that they should no longer drink on the campus.
35. MODALISATION - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. The maid seems to have stolen the diamonds.

2. The plane is reported to have crashed in the Andes.
3. The safe may have been open.
4. John is very likely to reject our offer.
5. The house was believed to be haunted by a ghost.
6. The man is believed to have been murdered.
7. This type of problem would be difficult to solve.
8. John is virtually certain to get the job.
9. Two children seemed to be missing.
10. The man is said to have escaped from a high security prison.
11. Five union leaders were thought to have been arrested.
12. Five union leaders are thought to have been arrested.
13. The man turned out to be a plain clothes policeman.
14. You must be right.
15. I happen to know his father.
16. Bob is sure to win the match.
17. This text is impossible to translate.
18. There might be a mistake in the accounts.
19. George Kerry seems likely to win the election.
20. John considers himself likely to be elected.
36. IDENTICAL LEAD REPHRASING - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. There doesn't seem to be anybody in the house.

2. Do you want the bed made by the nurse?
3. It seems to be difficult to please him.
4. What Mr Johnson is doing is building a garage.
5. Everybody believes there to have been a conflict between them.
6. I hate it when you make fun of her.
7. It is said to have been seen by a lot of people.
8. The man obviously considered himself a great scientist.
9. Do you mind my borrowing your umbrella?
10. The fire brigade fear the youngster to have had an accident.
11. The man was slow in answering their question.
12. Bob said to me that he had met Peter two weeks before.
13. We have (got) too few computers.
14. They supply the local hospital with meat.
15. He felt quite certain of it that she had told a lie.
16. Bob said that it must be too late.
17. It is incredible for her to be so selfish.
18. She hardly ever calls on us.
19. Should our plans be found fault with by the rest of them, we can always make some alterations.
20. I have not been to the cinema for 2 years.
21. Paul has been at the office for 20 minutes.
22. They will get a new bicycle each.
23. Had my remarks been paid attention to, this would never have happened.
24. The colonel ordered that all leaves should be cancelled.
25. It is worth thinking about.
26. We thought it necessary to warn you.
27. George Bush has been President of the United States for two years.
28. I don't suppose (that) Peter will object to your coming with us.
29. They forced him into making a false declaration.
30. It is likely to be interesting to listen to it. / It is likely to be interesting to listen to.
37. MULTIPLE REPHRASING: PROMOTION TO MAIN SUBJECT POSITION
SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. It is certain that they will offer a new job to Bob.

It is certain that they will offer Bob a new job.
It is certain that Bob will be offered a new job.
Bob is certain to be offered a new job.
Other paraphrases (possible, but not what was expected) :
They are certain to offer a new job to Bob.
A new job is certain to be offered to Bob.

2. It seems that it is likely that his son will find him.

It seems that it is likely that he will be found by his son.
It seems that he is likely to be found by his son.
He seems likely to be found by his son.

3. People believed that the radio had reported that someone had killed her.
People believed that the radio had reported that she had been killed.
People believed that the radio had reported her to have been killed.
People believed she had been reported killed.
She was believed to have been reported killed.

4. It seems that it is certain that the company gave a bribe to the minister.
It seems that it is certain that the company gave a bribe to the minister.
It seems that it is certain that the minister was given a bribe by the company.
It seems that the minister is certain to have been given a bribe the company.
The minister seems certain to have been given a bribe by the company.

5. People believe that it is likely that George Bush will win the election.
People believe that George Bush is likely to win the election.
George Bush is believed (to be) likely to win the election.

6. It is certain that it will seem to them that it is difficult to solve the problem.
It is certain that it will seem to them that the problem is difficult to solve.
It is certain that the problem will seem to them (to be) difficult to solve.
The problem is certain to seem to them difficult to solve.

7. People considered that it was not worthwhile talking about such trifles.
People considered that such trifles were not worth talking about.
People did not consider such trifles to be worth talking about.
Such trifles were not considered worth talking about.

8. People said that there were two men missing.

People said that two men were missing.
Two men were said to be missing.

9. It is likely that people will consider that she was responsible for the incident.
It is likely that people will consider her (to have been) responsible for the incident.
It is likely that she will be considered responsible for the incident.
She is likely to be considered responsible for the incident.

10. People believed that there had been two demonstrators killed.
People believed that two demonstrators had been killed.
People believed two demonstrators to have been killed.
Two demonstrators were believed to have been killed.

11. People say that it is very difficult to work with him.

People say that he is very difficult to work with.
He is said to be very difficult to work with.

12. It seems that it is likely that it will be easy to convince her.

It seems that it is likely that she will be easy to convince.
It seems that she is likely to be easy to convince.
She seems likely to be easy to convince.
39. MULTIPLE CONTROLLED REPHRASING - SUGGESTED SOLUTIONS

1. Sherlock Holmes is investigating a mysterious case.

A mysterious case is being investigated by Sherlock Holmes.
What Sherlock Holmes is investigating a mysterious case.
What Sherlock Holmes is doing is investigating a mysterious case.
The case Sherlock Holmes is investigating is mysterious/a mysterious one.

2. Someone reported that the terrorists had executed the hostage.

The terrorists were reported to have executed the hostage.
The hostage was reported to have been executed the terrorists.
It was reported that the terrorists had executed the hostage.

3. That the spy showed the documents to the ambassador is virtually certain.
The ambassador is virtually certain to have been shown the documents by the spy.
It is virtually certain that the spy showed the documents to the ambassador.
The documents are virtually certain to have been shown to the ambassador by the spy.
The spy is virtually certain to have shown the documents to the ambassador.

4. Nobody, it seems, lives in this house.

It seems (that) nobody lives in this house.
This house doesn't seem to be lived in.
Nobody seems to live in this house.
It doesn't seem (that) anybody lives in this house.
There seems to live nobody in this house.
There doesn't seem to live anybody in this house.

5. People believe that ten soldiers are missing.

It is believed that ten soldiers are missing.
What people believe is that ten soldiers are missing.
Ten soldiers are believed to be missing.
People believe ten soldiers to be missing.
There are believed to be ten soldiers missing.
6. They paid attention to the crucial problems.
The crucial problems were paid attention to.
Attention was paid to the crucial problems.
The problems they paid attention to were the crucial ones.

7. It seems that it is likely that they will make fun of your objections.
They seem likely to make fun of your objections.
Your objections seem likely to be made fun of.
It seems (to be) likely that they will make fun of your objections.
What seems (to be) likely it is that they will make fun of your objections.
What seems (to be) likely it is that your objections will be made fun of.

8. That the manager will offer the job to Bob is likely.

It is likely (that) the manager will offer the job to Bob.
The manager is likely to offer the job to Bob.
The job is likely to be offered to Bob by the manager.
What is likely is that the manager will offer the job to Bob.
Bob is likely to be offered the job by the manager.

9. People say that to work with him is very difficult.

It is said that to work with him is very difficult.
It is said that he is very difficult to work with.
He is said to be very difficult to work with.
To work with him is said to be very difficult.

10. People think that the two sides made little progress at the conference.
It is thought that the two sides made little progress at the conference.
Little progress is thought to have been made by the two sides at the conference.
People do not think that the two sides made much progress at the conference.
The two sides are thought to have made little progress at the conference.
The two sides are not thought to have made much progress at the conference.
There is thought to have been little progress made by the two sides at the conference.
11. People considered that talking about such subjects was not worthwhile.
It was considered that talking about such subjects was not worthwhile.
It was not considered that talking about such subjects was worthwhile.
Talking about such subjects was not considered worthwhile.
Such subjects were not considered worth talking about.
People didn't consider that talking about such subjects was worthwhile.
People didn't consider such subjects (to be) worth talking about.

12. If they had known he was a spy, they would never have given the documents to him.
Had they known he was a spy, they would never have given the documents to him.
Had they known he was a spy, never would they have given him the documents.
Had they known him to be a spy, never would they have given the documents to him.
If they had known he was a spy, they would never have given him the documents.
Had he been known to be a spy, never would they have given him the documents.
Had he been known to be a spy, never would he have been given the documents.
Never would they have given him the documents, if they had known he was a spy.
He would never have been given the documents, if he had been known to be a spy.
The documents would never have been given to him, if he had been known to be a spy.
They would never have given him the documents, if they had known him to be a spy.
Had it been known (that) he was a spy, they would never have given the documents to him.
etc.

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