Identify the part (A–E) that contains a grammatical error in the sentence below. If there is no error, choose option E (No error). Sentence (split into parts): A) Pass on B) the salt C) please D) do you?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: option_a

Explanation:


Introduction:
This tests idiomatic verb choice in requests. The natural collocation in English is "pass the salt", not "pass on the salt".



Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Imperative request to hand an item at the table.
  • Particle "on" added after "pass".
  • There is also an unusual tag "do you?" but the test convention typically targets one clear error.



Concept / Approach:
"Pass on" means to transmit/relay information or to decline something. When asking someone to hand an object, the idiom is simply "pass + object". Therefore "Pass the salt, please" is correct.



Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify collocation: "pass the salt".2) Remove unnecessary particle "on".3) Optional politeness tag could be "will you?" but the primary targeted error here is in A.4) Correct version: "Pass the salt, please."



Verification / Alternative check:
Tag questions after imperatives typically use "will you?" or "would you?", not "do you?". However, error-spotting items usually contain one tested error; we select the clearest lexical error—part A.



Why Other Options Are Wrong:
B: Object noun phrase is fine.C: "please" is a standard politeness marker.D: While stylistically odd, it can be ignored here because A already contains a definite error.



Common Pitfalls:
Confusing "pass on" (relay/decline) with "pass" (hand over).



Final Answer:
A (Delete "on")

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