Introduction / Context:
This sentence tests tense and mood consistency in a conditional-like statement of general truth. Identify the fragment that conflicts with the modal “can.”
Given Data / Assumptions:
- The main clause uses present-time general truth: “can long endure.”
- The if-clause should align with a general condition, not a specific past-time event.
- Prepositional phrase “in material prosperity” is acceptable though “on” is also common with “foundations.”
Concept / Approach:
With “can” in a timeless truth, the conditional clause should take present form: “if its foundations are not laid deep …” Using “were” suggests a mismatched past narrative. Therefore Part C is erroneous.
Step-by-Step Solution:
A: “No country can long endure” — correct modal + base verb.B: “if its foundations” — introduces the conditional subject; fine.C: “were not laid deep” — wrong for general truth; should be “are not laid deep” or “have not been laid deep.”D: “in the material prosperity.” — article “the” is optional and often dropped; not the key error.
Verification / Alternative check:
Corrected: “No country can long endure if its foundations are not laid deep in material prosperity.”
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Only C violates tense–mood consistency; A, B, and D are acceptable in exam usage.
Common Pitfalls:
Mixing a general-truth main clause with a past-tense conditional; over-focusing on minor prepositional preferences.
Final Answer:
were not laid deep
Discussion & Comments