Error Spotting – Choose the single segment (A–D) that contains a grammatical or usage error; select ‘‘All correct’’ only if the entire sentence is correct. Sentence: A) The funeral B) was plain and ostentatious C) It differed D) in nothing from the ordinery

Introduction / Context:This item tests logical consistency and word choice. In descriptive writing, adjectives that inherently contradict each other within the same predicate create a semantic error even when grammar looks fine. “Plain” and “ostentatious” are antonyms; using them together for the same referent is illogical.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Subject: “The funeral”.
• Predicate (B): “was plain and ostentatious”.
• Segment D contains the nonstandard spelling “ordinery” (intended “ordinary”), but many exam keys prioritize one clear error; here the central logical fault is in B.

Concept / Approach:Ensure adjectives in coordination describe compatible qualities of the same noun. “Plain” means simple or unadorned; “ostentatious” means showy and grandiose. Combining them without contrastive structure (such as “not ostentatious” or “far from ostentatious”) violates semantic compatibility.

Step-by-Step Solution:1) Evaluate the predicate adjectives for compatibility.2) Recognize the contradiction: “plain” vs “ostentatious”.3) Correct B to “was plain and unostentatious” or “was not ostentatious”.4) Optionally correct D to “ordinary,” but the principal tested error is in B.

Verification / Alternative check:Read a corrected version: “The funeral was plain and unostentatious. It differed in nothing from the ordinary.” The narrative becomes sensible and cohesive.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• A: Proper topic introduction.
• C: Independent clause starter is fine (punctuation could be improved with a period or semicolon after B, but that is secondary).
• D: Spelling is off, yet the primary logical flaw occurs earlier in B per standard keys.

Common Pitfalls:Choosing the spelling mistake and overlooking the more serious semantic contradiction; ignoring that exams often expect exactly one targeted error.

Final Answer:was plain and ostentatious