Introduction / Context:
This question checks the standard prepositional pattern with adjectives that express emotions or mental states. The phrase “afraid of” is a fixed and correct combination in English, and the noun phrase that follows should fit semantically.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Sentence: “Religious people are afraid of sinful actions.”
- We must decide if any fragment A–D contains an error.
- Neutral, general-English register.
Concept / Approach:
The collocation “afraid of + noun/gerund” is correct (e.g., afraid of snakes; afraid of making mistakes). The adjective “sinful” properly modifies “actions,” forming a natural noun phrase “sinful actions.” No grammatical, lexical, or collocational violation occurs in any of the fragments A–D.
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Check subject–linking verb–complement structure: “people are afraid …” is correct.2) Verify preposition: “afraid of” is the standard pattern.3) Confirm noun modification: “sinful actions” is idiomatic.4) No corrections are needed; select “All correct.”
Verification / Alternative check:
Paraphrase: “Religious people fear sinful actions.” The meaning is preserved, reinforcing that the original is fine.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Not applicable—A–D are all acceptable; E correctly indicates no error.
Common Pitfalls:
Overcorrecting fixed adjective–preposition combinations. Keep a mental list of common patterns: afraid of, interested in, proud of, good at, etc.
Final Answer:
All correct
Discussion & Comments