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:
Step 1: Replace the nonstandard phrase with the idiom “lost his temper” (past narrative) or “loses his temper” (habitual).Step 2: Align tenses. If habitual, change “loosened” to “loses.”Step 3: Optional stylistic tweak: replace “as per his planning” with “according to his plans.”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