The past two years ________ a sharp rise in oil price，which adds to the burden of auto transportation industry.

—Jack is always studying hard and does well in all subjects.
—No wonder he ________ to be admitted to Beijing University.

—Will you see me off at the airport at ten tomorrow morning?
—Sorry, I ________ a lecture then.

—The rain ________ fast and heavy.
—You should ________ some shelter. Look at you—you are all wet.

I had wanted to help you last night but I couldn't spare any time, for I ________ a composition which I have to hand in this morning.

—How is your cousin, Kate?
—She broke her leg and ________ medical treatment since.

—Lucy, tell me about your trip to the beach.
—Awful! There ________ too many holidaymakers.

—Sorry, sir. And you'll let me pay to have your jacket cleaned, won't you?
—That's all right. Coffee ________ lasting marks on clothing, I'm sure.

—How long on earth shall I have to wait?
—Sorry, sir. Just a minute. There ________ a table available.

When I ________ home, I caught a thief stealing from a passer­by.