English Grammar – Spot the error (choose the erroneous segment or ‘‘No error’’). Sentence: I asked him whom he thought would be able to get the first prize.
Correct Answer: whom he thought
Introduction / Context:The item tests case in indirect questions. In “wh-” clauses, choose “who” or “whom” based on the pronoun’s function within the embedded clause, not by what precedes the clause.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Main reporting verb: “asked”.
- Embedded clause: “(who/whom) he thought would be able to get …”.
- Within the embedded clause, the pronoun is the subject of “would be able”.
Concept / Approach:Rule: Use “who” for subjects, “whom” for objects. Here the structure is “he thought [who would be able …]”. The pronoun is subject of “would be able,” so it must be “who,” not “whom”.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify clause boundary after “thought”.Determine pronoun function inside the clause: subject.Replace “whom” with “who”.Correct sentence: “I asked him who he thought would be able to get the first prize.”Verification / Alternative check:Paraphrase: “Who would be able …, he thought.” Clearly, “who” is the subject. “Whom” would only be correct if it were the object, e.g., “whom he thought I should select.”
Why Other Options Are Wrong/Acceptable:
- A, C, and D are fine.
- E cannot be right since B contains a case error.
Common Pitfalls:Overusing “whom” after verbs like “ask” because it feels formal; forgetting to analyze the embedded clause independently.
Final Answer:whom he thought