From the alternatives, choose the one which correctly classifies the four…
2021
From the alternatives, choose the one which correctly classifies the four sentences as a:
F (Fact): If it relates to a known matter of direct observation, or an existing reality or something known to be true.
J (Judgment): If it is an opinion or estimate or anticipation of common sense or intention.
I (Inference): If it is a logical conclusion or deduction about something, based on the knowledge of facts.
A. The Minister definitely took the wrong step.
B. Under the circumstances, he had many other alternatives.
C. The Prime Minister is embarrassed due to the Minister’s decision.
D. If he has put the government in jeopardy, the Minister must resign.
- A.
JFFI
- B.
IFJI
- C.
FFJI
- D.
IFIJ
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Concept. To label a statement, test the kind of claim it makes — not whether you agree with it:
Fact (F): a directly observable matter or an existing reality — something stated as already true.
Judgment (J): an opinion, evaluation, or recommendation — it praises, blames, or prescribes what ought to be.
Inference (I): a logical conclusion drawn from given facts, often signalled by a conditional or a 'therefore'-style deduction.
Application. Classify each statement in turn:
“The Minister definitely took the wrong step.” — calling a step “wrong” is an evaluation of the action; nothing observable makes it true, so it is an opinion = J.
“Under the circumstances, he had many other alternatives.” — this asserts an existing reality about the situation (the alternatives were available), stated as something known to be true, so it is a Fact = F.
“The Prime Minister is embarrassed due to the Minister’s decision.” — this reports a present, observable state of affairs (the PM’s embarrassment) and its cause, so it is a Fact = F.
“If he has put the government in jeopardy, the Minister must resign.” — the “if … then must” form draws a conclusion that follows from a premise, so it is an Inference = I.
Cross-check. Reading A–D in order gives the sequence J–F–F–I, i.e. JFFI. Note the contrast: only the first statement carries an evaluative word (“wrong”) that makes it a Judgment, while the conditional 'must resign' is a deduction rather than an opinion, which is what separates the closing statement as an Inference.