English grammar — Spot the error (choose the segment that contains a grammatical error; choose ‘‘No error.’’ if the sentence is correct). Sentence: Even at the planning stage Rajesh was quite sure, that the scheme was binding to fail.
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AEven at the planning stage
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BRajesh was quite sure,
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Cthat the scheme was
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Dbinding to fail.
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ENo error.
Answer
Correct Answer: binding to fail.
Explanation
Introduction / Context:This question tests correct idiomatic expression and punctuation around a that-clause. The phrase should be “bound to fail,” not “binding to fail.”
Given Data / Assumptions:
- “Be bound to + verb” expresses inevitability or strong likelihood.
- Placing a comma before a restrictive “that”-clause is generally incorrect.
Concept / Approach:Identify the idiom first, then check punctuation. Only one segment is to be marked as the error; the principal, unambiguous error here is the misuse “binding to fail.”
Step-by-Step Solution:
A: Prepositional phrase is fine.B: “was quite sure,” — the comma is stylistically questionable before a restrictive “that”-clause, but many tests prioritize the lexical error instead.C: “that the scheme was” — correct introductory clause.D: “binding to fail.” — incorrect idiom; it must be “bound to fail.”Verification / Alternative check:Corrected sentence: “Even at the planning stage Rajesh was quite sure that the scheme was bound to fail.” (Comma before “that” removed.)
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- A/C are correct.
- B contains a debatable comma, but the core grammar/idiom error is clearly in D.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing “binding” (as a noun/adjective meaning “obligatory,” “fastening”) with the idiomatic “bound to + verb.”
Final Answer:binding to fail.