English grammar – Spot the error (choose the part with an error or “No error”). Sentence: When I / last see him, / he was / in Calcutta.
Verbal Ability
Spotting Errors
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AWhen I
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Blast see him,
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Che was
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Din Calcutta.
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ENo error.
Answer
Correct Answer: last see him,
Explanation
Introduction / Context:This question examines correct tense usage in a past-time reference. Identify the fragment that violates tense consistency.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The adverb “last” signals a completed past time.
- The main event “he was in Calcutta” is in simple past.
Concept / Approach:When referring to a specific time in the past, the correct tense for the verb “see” is simple past “saw.” The clause “When I last saw him” sets the time frame for the following past-state clause “he was …”.
Step-by-Step Solution:
A: “When I” — correct starter to a time clause.B: “last see him,” — incorrect tense; should be “last saw him.”C: “he was” — correct past-tense linking verb.D: “in Calcutta.” — correct prepositional complement of place.Verification / Alternative check:
Revised: “When I last saw him, he was in Calcutta.” The sentence is now tense-consistent.Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A, C, and D are fine; only B contains the error.Common Pitfalls:
Using base form “see” after explicit past-time adverbs; forgetting simple past with “when” clauses.Final Answer:last see him,