Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: does not exist
Explanation:
Given data
Original: ‘‘This telephone number is not existing.’’
Concept/Approach
Stative verbs like ‘‘exist’’ typically do not take progressive aspect. The natural correction is the simple present negative: ‘‘does not exist.’’
Option analysis
has not existed — Present perfect suggests a period up to now; possible but needlessly marked.does not exist — Correct, direct, and idiomatic.has not been existing — Progressive perfect is unidiomatic with ‘‘exist.’’No improvement — Keeps the incorrect progressive.is not in existence — Grammatically fine but verbose; simple present is preferred.
Verification/Alternative
Model: ‘‘Such a record does not exist.’’
Common pitfalls
Applying ‘‘be + -ing’’ to stative verbs (know, own, believe, exist) in neutral prose.
Final Answer
does not exist
Discussion & Comments