What is C2 English?
C2 is the highest CEFR English level, often described as near-native proficiency. A C2 learner can understand with ease virtually everything heard or read, summarise information from different sources into a coherent whole, and express themselves spontaneously, very fluently and precisely — differentiating finer shades of meaning even in the most complex situations.
What you can do at C2
- ✓Understand with ease virtually everything you hear or read
- ✓Summarise information from different spoken and written sources coherently
- ✓Express yourself spontaneously, fluently and with great precision
- ✓Convey finer shades of meaning and use idiom and register naturally
- ✓Handle complex, subtle and specialised topics with confidence
Skills at C2
Listening
Understand any kind of spoken language, live or broadcast, even at fast native speed, given time to get used to the accent.
Speaking
Take part effortlessly in any conversation or discussion, using idiom and colloquial language with precision.
Reading
Read with ease virtually all forms of written language, including abstract, structurally complex or highly colloquial texts.
Writing
Write clear, smoothly flowing, complex texts in an appropriate and effective style, including summaries and critiques.
Grammar & vocabulary at C2
Key grammar
- Full command of complex and idiomatic structures
- Subtle control of stress, emphasis and word order
- Precise use of nuance, connotation and register
- Idiomatic and figurative language
- Stylistic variation for effect
- Complete grammatical accuracy even under pressure
Vocabulary
A very broad, precise vocabulary (well beyond 10,000 words), including idiomatic, colloquial, figurative and specialised terms used naturally and accurately.
Are you at C2? Quick self-check
If you can confidently do most of these, you are likely around C2.
- □I can understand virtually everything I hear or read
- □I can express finer shades of meaning precisely
- □I can use idiom and register naturally and appropriately
- □I can handle the most complex topics with confidence
Beyond C2
C2 is an advanced level of English. From here, lessons focus on precision, nuance, and mastering English for the specific academic or professional contexts that matter to you.
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