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- Define present ages.
- Translate past/future clues.
- Use constant age difference.
Correct Answer: A
Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Error Detection
The answer satisfies the present, past, or future age relation.
Short Explanation
Detailed Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Error Detection
<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; height:20px; width:85px">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="background-color:#c0e6f5; border-bottom:1px solid #44b3e1; border-left:none; border-right:none; border-top:1px solid #44b3e1; height:20px; vertical-align:top; white-space:normal; width:85px"><span style="color:#000000">The expression 'a number of' means several and is followed by a plural noun and a plural verb. Therefore, 'a number of applications have been received' is correct. This construction must be distinguished from 'the number of applications', where 'number' is the main singular subject and takes a singular verb, as in 'the number of applications has increased'. In the given sentence, applications are being counted collectively as several items, so the plural auxiliary 'have' is required.</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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Learn + Solve: Shortcut, Trap & Fast Route Click to view shortcut, steps, and common mistake
Shortcut used, common trap, and the fastest solving route
- Define present ages.
- Translate past/future clues.
- Use constant age difference.
Identify the error: 'A number of applications / has been received / for the vacant posts / this week.'
Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Error Detection
The answer satisfies the present, past, or future age relation.
Short Explanation
Detailed Explanation
Correct Answer: A
Method / Topic: Error Detection
<table cellspacing="0" style="border-collapse:collapse; height:20px; width:85px">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="background-color:#c0e6f5; border-bottom:1px solid #44b3e1; border-left:none; border-right:none; border-top:1px solid #44b3e1; height:20px; vertical-align:top; white-space:normal; width:85px"><span style="color:#000000">The expression 'a number of' means several and is followed by a plural noun and a plural verb. Therefore, 'a number of applications have been received' is correct. This construction must be distinguished from 'the number of applications', where 'number' is the main singular subject and takes a singular verb, as in 'the number of applications has increased'. In the given sentence, applications are being counted collectively as several items, so the plural auxiliary 'have' is required.</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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