|
There’s a lot of talk about C2 online. |
|
|
Some people say it’s completely unattainable. Others claim that it’s pointless and “only for academics”. |
|
|
Here’s what you need to know: none of that is true. |
|
|
Let’s do a quick test and I’ll show you what I mean. |
|
|
Look at the three sentences below. Which one isn’t C2?
- A: "The presentation was bang on, to be fair."
- B: "Acclaimed for its impeccable flow and thematic precision, the presentation was met with unanimous plaudits."
- C: "The presentation struck the right note with the audience, who were completely hooked from start to finish."
|
|
|
Take a moment before reading on. |
|
|
Surprise: they’re all C2. |
|
|
This is where many people misunderstand what C2 actually is. |
|
|
C2 isn’t just about sounding as formal or complex as possible. It’s about range and knowing how to switch between registers naturally and appropriately. |
|
|
- Sentence A is informal: something you’d say to a friend
- Sentence B is formal: the kind of language you might see in an academic text
- Sentence C is neutral: common wording for a newspaper
|
|
|
A C2 speaker can use all three with ease, depending on the situation and the audience. |
|
|
Of course, this is just one aspect of C2 English, but an important one that is often overlooked. |
|
|
C2 goes far beyond impressive vocabulary or academic language. It’s the ability to:
- express yourself precisely in any context
- shift comfortably between formal and casual English
- choose words that best suit the moment and the listener
- communicate exactly what you mean, without hesitation
C2 is the pinnacle of English. It’s the point where you stop translating in your head and start expressing yourself naturally.
And if you’re already at C1, you’re much closer than you think.
|
|
|
P.S. Want to practise speaking English without pressure and get instant feedback? Try Langua, the world's most advanced AI for language learning. Save 20% on Pro Plans with the code LUCY20. |
|
|
|
|
