Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: with one another
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This sentence completion question tests your understanding of reflexive and reciprocal pronouns and the correct prepositional phrase used when many people are communicating among themselves. The sentence talks about students from different countries, so more than two people are involved. You must choose the phrase that best reflects this reciprocal communication.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
For reciprocal actions involving more than two persons, English uses "one another" and "each other." "Communicate with one another" is a very common phrase meaning that everyone in the group can talk to everyone else. The preposition "with" is necessary after "communicate" when it takes a human object. Therefore, "with one another" is both grammatically complete and semantically accurate in this context.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recognise that the action is reciprocal communication among many students.
Step 2: Recall that the verb "communicate" usually takes the preposition "with" before the person or group involved.
Step 3: Select a phrase that includes both the preposition "with" and a reciprocal pronoun: "with one another."
Step 4: Insert it into the sentence: "The scheme allows students from different countries to communicate with one another."
Step 5: Check that the completed sentence sounds natural and clearly describes two way communication among many students.
Verification / Alternative check:
Consider each alternative. "Each other" could work with the preposition "with" as "with each other," but the option here lacks "with." "With each others" is ungrammatical because "others" should not be plural in this expression. "Themselves" would make the sentence "communicate themselves," which is incorrect and does not show mutual communication. Only "with one another" fits all grammatical and semantic requirements.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Learners often confuse reflexive pronouns like "themselves" with reciprocal expressions such as "each other" and "one another." Another common issue is forgetting the preposition that many verbs require. To avoid such errors, remember typical patterns like "talk to," "speak with," and "communicate with one another," and mentally test the completed sentence for naturalness in everyday English.
Final Answer:
The correct phrase is with one another, giving the sentence: The scheme allows students from different countries to communicate with one another.
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