English grammar – Spot the error (choose the part with an error or “No error”). Sentence: He ought / not have / done such a / filthy thing.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: not have

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The item tests the correct construction with the modal “ought to.” The sentence is split into four parts; pick the incorrect fragment.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • “Ought to” must be followed by a bare infinitive.
  • In perfect infinitive constructions, use “ought not to have + past participle.”


Concept / Approach:
The fragment “not have” is missing “to.” The correct negative is “ought not to have done …”.



Step-by-Step Solution:

A: “He ought” — start of a modal phrase; expects “to.”B: “not have” — error; should be “not to have.”C: “done such a” — correct determiner phrase with past participle.D: “filthy thing.” — grammatical object phrase.


Verification / Alternative check:

Corrected: “He ought not to have done such a filthy thing.”


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Only B contains the structural omission; A, C, and D are fine in context.


Common Pitfalls:

Dropping “to” after “ought,” especially in negatives and questions.


Final Answer:
not have

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