| Sentence correction -
A closer look |
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In this question you are given a sentence partly or fully underlined. The underlined part may or may not have an error. The first of the five options repeats the underlined part, the other four options are different ways of phrasing the part. If the given sentence has no error choose option A; if the sentence has an error, choose the option that is correctly constructed. |
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| What language skills are tested |
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Syntax
- requirements of standard written English - grammar,
idioms, word order. Semantics - effectiveness of expression
- choice of words, clarity, conciseness, meaning, conformity. |
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How do you prepare for sentence correction |
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Here is a peep into Usage 25 |
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Misplaced modifier |
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Wordiness |
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Idiomatic construction |
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Conditional expression |
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Tense consistency |
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Unclear use of 'which' |
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Usage of countable,
non-countable nouns |
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Incomplete comparison |
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Illogical comparison |
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Lack of clear subject |
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Faulty diction |
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Meaning conformity |
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 Misplaced
modifier
Example
Incorrect construction
"Annoyed by the corporation's apathetic
attitude, it was decided by the residents to install
an incinerator for garbage disposal."
Here "Annoyed by the corporation's apathetic attitude",
should modify the residents, and not 'it' hence
the
Correct
construction
"Annoyed by the corporation's
apathetic attitude, the residents decided to install
an incinerator for garbage disposal."
The residents were annoyed by the corporation's
apathetic attitude.
Ambiguous
use of which/it
Example
Incorrect construction
The consumption of processed foods causes
health hazards, which can
be avoided if it is taken
occasionally.
Here usage of which and it is unclear. Which and
it can ambiguously refer to consumption, processed
food or health hazards.
Ask- what can be avoided- health hazards
Correct construction
Health hazards caused by
the consumption of processed foods can be avoided
if such foods are taken occasionally.
Conditional
expressions Example
Incorrect construction
The player would've been on the team for the match
if he did not injure himself in the practice session
last week.
In conditional expressions-
with if, when, until
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Would and had go together
Will/shall and simple present go together
Correct construction
The player "would've been
on the team for the match if he
had not injured
himself in the practice session last week.
The player will
be on the team for the match if he
passes
(simple present)
the fitness test
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