English Grammar – Spot the error (choose the erroneous segment or ‘‘No error’’). Sentence: One of the party members were dismissed for speaking against the leader.

Introduction / Context:
This sentence tests subject–verb agreement with “one of + plural noun”. Despite the plural noun that follows, the grammatical subject is “one” (singular), so the verb must also be singular (“was”), not plural (“were”).

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Noun phrase pattern: “one of the party members”.
• Verb phrase used: “were dismissed”.
• Complement reason: “for speaking against the leader”.

Concept / Approach:
In the structure “one of the + plural noun + relative clause/verb”, the head noun is “one” (singular). Therefore, choose a singular verb form. Write “was dismissed”. If you wished to focus on “members”, you would need a different structure.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Try replacing “one” with “two”: “Two of the party members were dismissed.” The verb changes to plural only when the quantifier becomes plural, confirming the rule.

Why Other Options Are Wrong/Acceptable:

• A, C, and D are fine.
• E cannot be chosen since B has the agreement error.

Common Pitfalls:
Letting the nearest plural noun force a plural verb (proximity agreement). Always match the true head noun.

Final Answer:
members were dismissed