Error Spotting – Identify the part of the sentence that contains a grammatical error (choose exactly one; select “No error” if the sentence is fully correct). Sentence: A) I am trying to finish B) this letter for the last one hour C) I wish you would D) go away or stop disturbing me.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: I am trying to finish

Explanation:


Introduction:
The focus is the correct tense with time-duration expressions such as "for the last one hour." English typically uses the present perfect continuous for actions that began in the past and continue to the present.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Duration phrase: "for the last one hour."
  • Main progressive form in A: "I am trying."
  • Pragmatic context: the trying began an hour ago and still continues.


Concept / Approach:
Use present perfect continuous for ongoing actions from the past up to now: "have been + verb-ing." This better signals continuity across a duration ending at the present moment.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify the duration marker "for the last one hour."2) Replace "am trying" with "have been trying" to match duration continuity.3) Correct clause: "I have been trying to finish this letter for the last one hour."4) The rest of the sentence (C, D) is fine for the intended meaning.


Verification / Alternative check:
Compare: "I am trying for the last hour" (awkward) vs "I have been trying for the last hour" (standard).


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • B: The duration phrase itself is fine; the tense in A caused the mismatch.
  • C–D: Pragmatically acceptable as a request/complaint.


Common Pitfalls:
Using simple or present progressive with explicit past-to-present durations; forgetting perfect aspect.


Final Answer:
Option A

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