Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: He loosened his temper
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
The item examines idiomatic usage and tense consistency in habitual vs. past narratives. The phrase “loosened his temper” is non-idiomatic; standard English uses “lost his temper.”
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Idioms must be used as established: the fixed expression is “lose one’s temper.” Additionally, maintain consistent tense. If the sentence describes a habitual reaction, simple present is preferable: “He loses his temper whenever he knows …”
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Test the idiom in standard corpora or by substitution: “He lost his temper …” is widely attested; “loosened his temper” is not.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Inventing near-idioms like “loosened his temper” leads to awkwardness. Also, mixing past and present tenses in a habitual statement confuses time reference. Correct both when revising.
Final Answer:
A) He loosened his temper
Discussion & Comments