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Even though a duck may live on water, it stays dry ________ the oil on its feathers. The oil prevents the water from soaking through the feathers and reaching its skin.

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Two of the factories in our small town have closed. ______________, unemployment is high.

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The main problem ______ the climbers was lack of sleep.

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I don't really want to go. ____________, it's too late now.

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Recent campaigns have led to a dramatic increase in ________ of social issues.

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____________ we got lost driving into the city, we were late for the meeting.

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In Britain, half of all violent ________ is committed by people who have been drinking alcohol.

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The weather was hot and sunny. ____________, we decided to go to the beach.