Introduction / Context:
This sentence checks idiomatic time expressions with determiners. In English, when we refer to a specific, recent period, we typically say “during the last few days” or “in the last few days”, not “during last days”. The definite article and often “few” are required to make the phrase natural and precise.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Intended meaning: over a recent span of days.
- Phrase used: “During last days”.
- Other clauses are structurally sound.
Concept / Approach:
- Use the definite article with “last/previous/next” when specifying a time period: “during the last week”, “in the next few months”.
- When the number is indefinite and small, “few” is idiomatic: “the last few days”.
- “During” selects a time period noun phrase; “days” alone without a determiner is awkward in this context.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Recognize the unidiomatic NP “last days”.Insert required elements: “the” and typically “few”.Corrected opening: “During the last few days, …” (or “In the last few days, …”).
Verification / Alternative check:
Try parallel expressions: “during the past few days”, “over the last few days” — all natural and widely used.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
B–D: Verb aspect and the contrastive clause are fine.E: Not applicable; an error exists in A.
Common Pitfalls:
Dropping articles in time phrases; misusing “during” with bare plurals.
Final Answer:
During last days
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