English Grammar – Spot the error (choose the erroneous segment or ‘‘No error’’). Sentence: Mahatma Gandhi did not solve all the problems of the future but he did solve problems of his own age.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: No error.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This sentence examines coordination and tense consistency. It contrasts two time scopes using a correct negative/affirmative balance with the auxiliary “did”.



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Negative past simple: “did not solve”.
  • Affirmative contrast: “did solve”.
  • Objects: “problems of the future” vs. “problems of his own age”.


Concept / Approach:
Using “did” for both the negative and the emphatic affirmative is standard. The contrastive conjunction “but” is appropriate. There is no grammatical error; any stylistic debate about “problems of the future” is outside the scope of grammar spotting.



Step-by-Step Checks:

Auxiliaries match tense and emphasis (“did not … / did …”).Parallel structure across the coordinated clauses is maintained.Noun phrases are clear and logical.


Verification / Alternative check:
Rephrase: “He did not solve future problems, but he did solve the problems of his own time.” The grammar remains correct, confirming absence of error.



Why Other Options Are Wrong (as error choices):
No segment (A–D) contains a grammatical fault, so E (“No error.”) is the only correct choice.



Common Pitfalls:
Mistaking rhetorical content or historical evaluation for grammar; assuming “did solve” is redundant—here it is emphatic and valid.



Final Answer:
No error.

More Questions from Spotting Errors

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion