English Grammar — Spot the error (choose the incorrect part; select 'No error' if the sentence is correct). Sentence parts: A) Immediately after boarding the bus, B) Mahesh asked the conductor. C) that if he knew D) where the museum was, E) No error
Correct Answer: that if he knew
Introduction / Context:This sentence tests reported speech structure and conjunction choice after reporting verbs such as “ask.” The clash “that if” is ungrammatical in standard English in this context.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Reporting clause: “Mahesh asked the conductor …”
- Embedded question about knowledge: “if he knew where the museum was.”
- Presence of “that if” indicates redundant complementizers.
Concept / Approach:After “ask,” use “if” or “whether” for yes/no indirect questions, not “that.” The sequence should be “asked … if he knew where …” A full stop after “conductor” is also stylistically awkward mid-sentence, but the principal grammatical error tested is the “that if” combination in Segment C.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify the reporting frame: “asked.”Step 2: Choose correct subordinator: use “if/whether,” not “that if.”Step 3: Form the indirect question: “if he knew where the museum was.”Step 4: Optional punctuation fix: remove the period in B to avoid sentence break.Verification / Alternative check:Try “Mahesh asked the conductor whether he knew where the museum was.” The clause is now smooth and grammatical.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- A: Proper introductory adverbial phrase with comma.
- B: The period is stylistically off but the grammatical core error targeted is in C; typical tests expect exactly one grammatical error.
- D: “where the museum was” is well-formed for backshifted reported speech.
- E: Not applicable since C has an error.
Common Pitfalls:Stacking complementizers like “that if” is a common learner error. Remember: after “ask,” select “if” or “whether” alone for yes/no content questions.
Final Answer:C) that if he knew