Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: option_e
Explanation:
Introduction:
In this question, you must decide whether the sentence contains a grammatical error in any of the labeled parts (A–D). If the sentence is grammatically correct, the correct choice is E (No error). The sentence uses a concessive prepositional phrase introduced by "in spite of" and a clear main clause.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Check prepositions, subject–verb agreement, article usage, and idiomatic expressions. Also verify punctuation expectations. In competitive exams, commas are often not considered mandatory errors unless they affect grammar or meaning. The priority is grammaticality and idiomatic correctness.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) "In spite of" + noun phrase is correct usage for contrast.2) "Rumours of an impending takeover" is a correct genitive-like construction: rumours (of what?) of a takeover.3) "by the government" properly identifies the agent of the takeover.4) Main clause "Ramlal bought more shares of that company" is grammatically sound: subject + past-tense verb + direct object + prepositional phrase.5) No disagreement of number or tense is present.
Verification / Alternative check:
You could rewrite for style as "Despite rumours of an impending government takeover, Ramlal bought more shares of the company." Both forms are acceptable; no grammatical error exists in the original.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A: Correct concessive phrase.B: Proper prepositional complement "of an impending takeover".C: Correct agent phrase "by the government".D: Well-formed independent clause.
Common Pitfalls:
Test-takers sometimes think a comma must appear before the main clause. However, punctuation choices like this are stylistic and not necessarily grammatical errors in such questions.
Final Answer:
E (No error)
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