1. They haven't really put matters right at all because they've simply papered ________ the cracks.

2. We're not quite sure how it will work so today we're having a dry ________ to find out if there are any problems.

3. As a result of the very long heat wave last summer many of the rivers have now completely dried ________ .

4. Of course there is a little extra added to your salary because you will ________ from the inner city allowance.

5. The main ________ of stationery for the office suddenly announced there would be an overall increase in their prices.

6. For goodness'sake hurry up because if we don't ________ cracking soon we'll miss the bus.

7. He always believed in giving his children the same opportunities in life so that each one would have a fair crack of the ________ .

8. I really think you should make an effort and apply for that job and at least ________ a crack at it.

9. Staff are always encouraged to work by themselves and whenever they meet a problem, they should use their own ________ .

10. The hourly ________ for all part time clerical assistants has gone up by 40% since 2000.