Nature reserves are very important for preserving many animals and plants, which would _______ run the risk of becoming extinct.

In his speech, Marks made the point ______ far more people died from smoking than from taking drugs.

When asked why he prefers bikes to buses, the professor said,  “Riding a bicycle takes __________ half an hour, but it’s more convenient and environmentally friendly. ”

The island is________attractive in spring and autumn because of the pleasant weather in both seasons.

Scientists said that the winter of 2011 was _____ cold, and in fact it was much colder than predicted.