Identifying Grammatical Errors Flashcards

Choose the sentence that contains a grammatical error. (A) The soldiers have been training since early morning. (B) Neither the captain nor the privates was ready. (C) She completed the assignment before the deadline. (D) We will depart as soon as the supplies arrive.

Answer: Neither the captain nor the privates was ready.

When using 'neither...nor,' the verb agrees with the subject closest to it. 'The privates' is plural, so the verb should be 'were ready,' not 'was ready.'

Identify the grammatical error in the following sentence: 'The general, along with his aides, are reviewing the mission plan.' (A) general (B) along with his aides (C) are reviewing (D) the mission plan

Answer: are reviewing

Phrases like 'along with,' 'as well as,' and 'together with' do not change the number of the subject. The subject is 'The general' (singular), so the verb should be 'is reviewing,' not 'are reviewing.'

Which sentence is grammatically correct? (A) Each of the recruits are required to pass the physical exam. (B) Everyone in the barracks have completed their duties. (C) The team of instructors has developed a new curriculum. (D) The committee have reached their decision unanimously.

Answer: The team of instructors has developed a new curriculum.

'The team' is a collective noun used as a single unit here, so it takes the singular verb 'has.' In American English, collective nouns like 'team' and 'committee' typically take singular verbs.

Find the error: 'If I would have studied harder, I would have passed the placement test.' (A) If I would have studied (B) harder (C) I would have passed (D) the placement test

Answer: If I would have studied

In a third conditional sentence (past unreal condition), the 'if' clause uses the past perfect: 'If I had studied harder.' Using 'would have' in the 'if' clause is a grammatical error.

Which sentence contains an error in the use of articles? (A) She is the best candidate for the position. (B) He plays a guitar in the military band. (C) The United States has a large standing army. (D) An honest soldier is valued by the corps.

Answer: He plays a guitar in the military band.

When referring to a musical instrument played as a skill or hobby, we use 'the': 'He plays the guitar.' Using 'a guitar' implies one specific guitar rather than the skill of playing guitar.

Select the sentence with correct parallel structure: (A) The training includes running, to swim, and climb obstacles. (B) Soldiers must be disciplined, have courage, and be loyal. (C) She enjoys reading, writing, and to hike on weekends. (D) The mission requires speed, accuracy, and to communicate well.

Answer: Soldiers must be disciplined, have courage, and be loyal.

Option (B) uses parallel verb phrases ('be disciplined,' 'have courage,' 'be loyal') maintaining consistent grammatical structure throughout the series.