English Grammar – Spot the error (choose the erroneous segment or ‘‘No error’’). Sentence: It seems evidents to me that the visits they made to the island were not very frequent.
Correct Answer: It seems evidents
Introduction / Context:The item tests correct adjective form and number. “Evident” is an adjective; “evidence” is a noun. “Evidents” is not a valid form. Precision with parts of speech is central to error-spotting.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Main clause opener: “It seems …”.
- Intended meaning: “It seems evident to me that …”.
- Plural-sounding “evidents” appears as a malformed adjective.
Concept / Approach:Use “evident” (adjective) to modify or complete “seems.” Do not pluralize adjectives in English. If a noun is needed, use “evidence,” but then the structure would change (e.g., “There is evidence that …”).
Step-by-Step Solution:
Replace malformed word: “evidents” → “evident”.Keep remainder intact: “… to me that the visits … were not very frequent.”Correct sentence: “It seems evident to me that the visits they made to the island were not very frequent.”Verification / Alternative check:Paraphrase: “Apparently, the visits … were not frequent.” The adjective slot after “seems” fits “evident,” not a noun or a pluralized form.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- B, C, D: Grammatically sound as written.
- E: Not acceptable since A contains a clear error.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing adjective–noun pairs (evident/evidence); incorrectly pluralizing adjectives.
Final Answer:It seems evidents