Everyone was suprised to see Geof leave the party early
⇒ To everyone's surprise, Geof left the party early.
It was so late that nothing could be done
⇒ It was too late for nothing to be done.
Is this the price you can offer?
⇒ Can't you offer the price ?
Smoking is not allow in the ward
⇒ Would you mind not smoking in the ward ?