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 faster B) he adjust to a novel situation C) the soon D) will he be rewarded

Difficulty: Medium

Correct Answer: the soon

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
This question tests the correlative comparative structure “The + comparative, the + comparative” (also called the “the … the …” construction), as in “The faster X happens, the sooner Y occurs.” It also invites attention to subject–verb agreement, but standard keys usually target a single error per sentence.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • First comparative clause begins with “The faster …”.
  • Second comparative should begin with “the sooner …”, not “the soon”.
  • There is a secondary issue in B (“he adjust” should be “he adjusts”), but exam patterns typically highlight the correlative error as primary.


Concept / Approach:
In this construction, both halves require comparative adjectives or adverbs. “Sooner” is the comparative of “soon.” Therefore “the soon” is ungrammatical; the correct form is “the sooner.” Agreement in B can be repaired simultaneously for full correctness, but the single tested hotspot is C.


Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Verify the correlative template: “The + comparative, the + comparative.”2) Identify the error: “the soon” → “the sooner.”3) Optional full correction: “The faster he adjusts to a novel situation, the sooner he will be rewarded.”4) Choose C as the answer per the principal rule tested.


Verification / Alternative check:
Test with other comparatives: “the earlier … the better …” The pattern remains consistent, confirming C as the locus of error.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A: Correct comparative starter.
  • B: While “adjusts” would be ideal, keys often single out one error; the headline rule lies in C.
  • D: Inversion with “will he be rewarded” is acceptable in emphatic style; “he will be rewarded” is also fine.


Common Pitfalls:
Missing the required comparative in the second half; over-focusing on agreement and overlooking the correlative template.


Final Answer:
the soon

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