John hasn’t studied hard this year; so, in the last couple of months, he has had to work _______ just to catch up.

She is a rising star as a standup comedian, always able to bring down the .................. during each performance.

He didn't achieve much at school in academic terms but he was_________of his elders and listened to them.

We’ve decided to interview only ten _________ for the job.

Another approach addressing public concerns_________to foreign investment is to emphasize corporate responsibility.

On_________inspection, one may realise that the farmers do not use fertilisers and pesticides for the simple reason that it would not pay off.

It is a huge transition, but achievable - particularly if we________the massive present waste of energy.