Premier Wen Jiabao has many important ______ of state to deal with.

The manager told me with great ______ that he couldn’t offer me the job.

—Do I need to give a tip if I eat at a fast food restaurant in the United States? —Yes, it’s a common ______ to tip waiter in a restaurant.

 She had an advantage over others because she had a good ________ of both Chinese and English. 

Please don’t speak at one time. George may take the ________ after the two women each say a few words.