Effort & Attitude Adverbs — Collocations
Believe firmly, regret deeply, take seriously — attitude lives in these pairs. · Pattern: Verb + Adverb · Level B2
try hard
Make a strong effort.
Example: Students who try hard improve fastest.
⚠️ Not: “try hardly (hardly means almost not!)” — say “try hard”.
work hard
Work with great effort.
Example: People who work hard earn respect.
⚠️ Not: “work hardly” — say “work hard”.
strongly recommend
Recommend with confidence and emphasis.
Example: Doctors strongly recommend daily exercise.
⚠️ Not: “highly recommend (also correct — both live here)” — say “strongly recommend”.
firmly believe
Believe with complete conviction.
Example: She firmly believes in second chances.
⚠️ Not: “strongly believe (possible — firmly shows no movement)” — say “firmly believe”.
deeply regret
Feel very sorry about something you did.
Example: He deeply regrets his words that night.
⚠️ Not: “strongly regret” — say “deeply regret”.
take seriously
Treat something as important, not a joke.
Example: Airlines take seriously every safety report.
⚠️ Not: “take in a serious way” — say “take seriously”.
wait patiently
Wait calmly without complaining.
Example: Passengers wait patiently during the delay.
⚠️ Not: “wait with patient” — say “wait patiently”.
spend wisely
Use money carefully and intelligently.
Example: Travelers who spend wisely see more places.
⚠️ Not: “spend wise” — say “spend wisely”.
sleep soundly
Sleep deeply without waking.
Example: Babies sleep soundly after a warm bath.
⚠️ Not: “sleep deep” — say “sleep soundly”.
remember clearly
Recall something in full detail.
Example: Grandpa can remember clearly the summer of 1969.
⚠️ Not: “remember clear” — say “remember clearly”.
Practice
Flashcards
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Matching Game
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