Spot the grammatical error in the sentence. Select the part (A–D) that contains an error; if correct, choose ‘‘No error.’’ Sentence: In the last week I tell him to come in time but he still comes late every day.
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AIn the last week
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BI tell him to come
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Cin time but he still
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Dcomes late every day.
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ENo error.
Answer
Correct Answer: I tell him to come
Explanation
Introduction / Context:This question checks tense consistency. Time expressions like ‘‘last week’’ or ‘‘in the last week’’ anchor an action in the past and require a past-tense verb (or present perfect with ‘‘for/in the last week’’ depending on meaning). The sentence incorrectly uses simple present ‘‘tell.’’
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Time marker: ‘‘In the last week’’ indicates a past period already completed.
- Main clause verb: ‘‘I tell him to come’’ (present simple).
- Ongoing result: ‘‘he still comes late every day’’ (habitual present).
Concept / Approach:When a specific past period is referenced, use simple past: ‘‘I told him.’’ If the intention is repeated actions over a continuing recent period, present perfect is better: ‘‘I have told him.’’ Both are more grammatical than ‘‘I tell him’’ with ‘‘last week.’’
Step-by-Step Solution:Match tense to time marker: change ‘‘tell’’ → ‘‘told’’ (or ‘‘have told’’ if continuity is intended).Keep the habit clause: ‘‘he still comes late every day’’ is acceptable.Possible correction: ‘‘In the last week I told him to come on time, but he still comes late every day.’’
Verification / Alternative check:Replace the adverbial with ‘‘every day’’; then present ‘‘tell’’ might work. With ‘‘last week,’’ native usage clearly demands past reference.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:A, C, and D are structurally fine; B alone mismatches tense with the time expression.
Common Pitfalls:Ignoring time adverbials; mixing present and past within one clause without reason.
Final Answer:I tell him to come