Spot the grammatical/usage error. Select the part (A–D) that contains an error; if the sentence is correct, choose ‘‘No error.’’ Sentence: Hindi and Marathi are different forms of the Sanskrit which were once spoken in almost every part of India.

Introduction / Context:
This question checks article usage with proper nouns (language names) and agreement within relative clauses. In standard English, names of languages generally take no article.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Language names: Hindi, Marathi, Sanskrit.
• Structure: ‘‘different forms of the Sanskrit…’’
• Relative clause: ‘‘which were once spoken…’’ modifies ‘‘Sanskrit’’.

Concept / Approach:
We do not normally use the definite article with language names (e.g., ‘‘the English’’ means the people, not the language). Therefore, ‘‘of Sanskrit’’ is correct, not ‘‘of the Sanskrit.’’ The sentence also implies that Sanskrit itself ‘‘was’’ spoken; the test, however, asks you to select the single part with a clear error—here, the article in part B.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify improper article: ‘‘the Sanskrit’’ → remove ‘‘the’’.Better form: ‘‘different forms of Sanskrit’’.Optional refinement: ‘‘which was once spoken…’’ to align with singular ‘‘Sanskrit.’’

Verification / Alternative check:
Compare with other languages: ‘‘forms of Latin,’’ ‘‘influenced by Greek,’’ never ‘‘the Latin’’ when referring to the language alone.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• A: Fine as subject.
• C: ‘‘were’’ sounds off, but the clearest, conventional error is the article in B.
• D: Correct prepositional phrase.

Common Pitfalls:
Adding ‘‘the’’ before language names; overlooking that only one segment should be marked even if you can improve others.

Final Answer:
different forms of the Sanskrit