Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: is
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This grammar question tests subject verb agreement, a key rule in English usage. When quantities and measurements like distance, time, and money are used as a single idea, they often take a singular verb even though the noun appears in plural form. Understanding this rule is essential for correctness in both spoken and written English.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
In English, when a plural measure of distance, time, or money is considered as a single total amount, it usually takes a singular verb. For example, "Ten kilometres is a long walk" and "Five years is a long time" both use is. The phrase "fourteen kilometres" here refers to the total distance needed to reach the office and is treated as one whole measure, so it should take the singular verb is.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
As a quick check, replace fourteen kilometres with a clearly singular noun and see which verb makes sense. For example, "This distance is not short" is correct, while "This distance are not short" sounds wrong. Because we are treating the distance as a single whole, the verb behaves as if the subject were a singular noun like this distance. This confirms that is is the correct choice.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Common Pitfalls:
Students often see the plural form of the noun kilometres and instinctively choose a plural verb. However, in measurements, grammar follows the idea of the quantity as a unit rather than the noun form alone. Recognizing such patterns will help avoid frequent subject verb agreement errors in competitive exams and formal writing.
Final Answer:
The correct verb form is is, so the complete sentence reads "Fourteen kilometres is not a short distance to reach my office daily".
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