Each question consists of sentences, which are divided into four parts,…
2023
Each question consists of sentences, which are divided into four parts, numbered (1) through (4). One part in each sentence is not acceptable in standard written English. Identify that part in each of the sentences which contains the error.
- A.
Jazz is an American art form
- B.
which was now flourishing in Europe
- C.
through the efforts of expatriates
- D.
in France, Scandinavia and Germany
Attempted by 16 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation:
The problematic segment is the relative clause 'which was now flourishing in Europe'. It contains a tense inconsistency: the main clause uses the simple present 'is', while this relative clause uses past tense 'was' but also includes the adverb 'now', which requires present reference.
Identify the mismatch: main clause = 'Jazz is an American art form' (present); relative clause = 'which was now flourishing in Europe' (past + 'now').
Correction: change 'was' to 'is' so the clause reads 'which is now flourishing in Europe', making the tenses consistent.
Conclusion: the relative clause 'which was now flourishing in Europe' is the unacceptable part and should be revised as shown.