Error Spotting – Choose the segment (A–D) that contains a grammatical error; select “No error” only if the entire sentence is correct. Sentence: A) In the absence of B) clear instuctions C) one cannot be expected D) to be functioned effectively.

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: to be functioned effectively.

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The sentence examines voice and complementation after “expected”. English expects a bare infinitive clause with an active verb: “expected to function …”, not a passive “to be functioned …”. Spelling issues may exist elsewhere, but the core grammar error is the malformed infinitival complement in D.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Matrix: “one cannot be expected …”.
  • Intended predicate: perform effectively despite missing instructions.
  • Current complement: passive infinitive “to be functioned effectively”.


Concept / Approach:
After “be expected”, we usually use an active infinitive describing what the subject is expected to do: “be expected to function …”. The noun “function” here is used as a verb and must remain active.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify the infinitival complement governed by “expected”.2) Replace passive form with active verb: “to function effectively”.3) Correct sentence: “In the absence of clear instructions, one cannot be expected to function effectively.”4) Thus, D is the error segment.


Verification / Alternative check:
Try comparable frames: “expected to work/perform/operate effectively” — all are active, not “to be worked/operated”.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A–C: Grammatically sound. (B has a spelling slip “instuctions” → “instructions”, but grammar testing typically targets the structural error in D.)


Common Pitfalls:
Forcing a passive infinitive where the subject is the doer of the action; assuming “be + past participle” fits all complements.


Final Answer:
Option D

More Questions from Spotting Errors

Discussion & Comments

No comments yet. Be the first to comment!
Join Discussion