Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: you, my friend and I
Explanation:
Introduction:
This question tests your understanding of the conventional order of pronouns and nouns when listing people in a sentence. Although several orders may be grammatically possible, English has preferred sequences that sound more polite and natural, especially in formal contexts. The sentence describes a video clip in which three people are enjoying a boat ride, and you must choose the best way to order I, my friend, and you.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
In English, a commonly observed polite order in lists is to mention the person being addressed (you) first, then other people (third person), and finally the speaker (I) last. This reflects modesty and courtesy. Therefore, you, my friend and I sounds more polite and natural than placing I first. While some variations may still be grammatically acceptable, examinations usually expect the conventional order that aligns with formal writing and spoken etiquette.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify the three elements: you, my friend, and I.
Step 2: Recall the typical courteous order you, he or she, and I, where the listener comes first and the speaker last.
Step 3: Apply this pattern to the sentence, giving you, my friend and I as the correct sequence.
Step 4: Insert this into the sentence: Look at this video clip in which you, my friend and I are enjoying a boat ride.
Step 5: Confirm that this version sounds natural and respectful.
Verification / Alternative check:
Compare the options in full sentences. Saying I, you and my friend places the speaker first, which can sound less modest in formal English. My friend, you and I is more acceptable but still slightly less conventional than you, my friend and I, which directly addresses the listener before mentioning others. The no improvement option keeps the original order that most style guides would adjust in polished writing. Thus option A provides the most standard and courteous formulation.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option B, I, you and my friend, puts the speaker first, which is usually avoided in formal contexts because it may sound self centred. Option C, my friend, you and I, is not ungrammatical but does not follow the widely preferred you first convention. Option D, no improvement, fails to correct the ordering and leaves the least polite version unchanged. Therefore, these options are not considered the best improvements in standard exam settings.
Common Pitfalls:
Many learners assume that any order is acceptable as long as the meaning is clear, but competitive exams often test finer points of style and courtesy. Remembering the pattern you, third person, and I will help you in similar questions. It is also helpful to read edited English texts and note how lists of people are typically arranged, especially in formal speeches and literature.
Final Answer:
you, my friend and I is the best improvement of the bracketed part.
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