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) The foremost criterion of selection we adopted B) were the number of years of training C) a dancer had received D) under a particular guru.
Correct Answer: were the number of years of training
Introduction:This question targets subject-verb agreement and the singular/plural distinction in words like "criterion" (singular) vs "criteria" (plural).
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Head noun: "criterion" (singular).
- Linking verb phrase in B: "were."
- Complement: "the number of years of training a dancer had received."
Concept / Approach:The verb must agree with the subject "criterion" (singular), not with the plural noun inside the complement ("years"). Therefore use "was," not "were."
Step-by-Step Solution:1) Identify true subject: "The foremost criterion ..."2) Choose singular agreement: "was."3) Correct version: "The foremost criterion of selection we adopted was the number of years of training a dancer had received under a particular guru."4) Past perfect "had received" is appropriate given a prior training history.
Verification / Alternative check:Substitute a pronoun: "It was the number..." confirms singular agreement.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- A: Grammatically fine as the subject chunk.
- C–D: Both are acceptable complements/modifiers.
Common Pitfalls:Attraction to the nearest plural noun ("years") causing incorrect plural verb choice.
Final Answer:Option B