1. I don't like to ask people for help as a rule but I wonder if you could _____ me a favour.

2. That boy is far ahead _____ everyone else in the class.

3. The vet decided that he had to operate _____ the cat to save its life.

4. Children and old people do not take kindly to having their daily _____ upset.

5. I know he is slow at understanding, but you have to be patient _____ him.

6. I reasoned _____ him, but he would not listen to me.

7. She chose some attractive _____ paper for the Christmas present.

8. Would you _____ the stamps on to the envelope for me, please?

9. His first novel was much more exciting _____ any he has written since.

10. I heard him _____ to Jim about his holiday plans.

11. It was a magnificent car which must have belonged to a very _____ person.

12. High in the sky a _____ of birds was flying southward.

13. On holiday I _____ always on the beach when the weather is fine.

14. He says he doesn't like his new school because he feels like a _____ out of water there.

15. I felt a sharp _____ when I put my hand in the boiling water.

16. I lost too much money betting at the races last time, so you won't _____ me to go again.

17. My mother was _____ of making a cake when the front door bell rang.

18. She heated the chocolate until it _____, then poured it over the cake.

19. If only everything _____ out as we wanted it to in life!

20. _____ each school year all the children were given copies of the school rules.

21. She is very proud _____ her son's success in his career.

22. It was very kind _____ you to help me with the gardening.

23. We are looking forward _____ seeing you at the family reunion.

24. They have been living in this city _____ fifteen years.

25. He succeeded _____ passing the final examination despite the difficulties.