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All questions of Verb for JAMB Exam

Complete the following exercise with past modal verbs. Use the correct form of the verbs in parentheses. Choose between affirmative and negative.
I got a C on my math test. I ____________ (should / do) better than that. 
Correct answer is 'should have done'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Rana answered
"I got a C on my math test. I should have done better than that."
"We use 'should have done' in this context because it expresses a sense of moral obligation or expectation. It implies that the speaker believes they had the ability or expectation to achieve a better result on the math test. It indicates a feeling of regret or disappointment that they did not perform as well as they believe they could or should have."

Why should we accept the Constitution made by the Constituent Assembly more than fifty years ago?
Observe the given options and mark the correct one.
  • a)
    The Constitution reflects the views of its members alone
  • b)
    It expresses the broad consensus of its time
  • c)
    The Constituent Assembly represented only the selected groups and communities
  • d)
    There is no concrete sanctity to the Constitution by the Constituent Assembly
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Raghav Bansal answered
  • The Constitution of India does not reflect the views of its members alone. It expresses a broad consensus of its time.
  • Many countries of the world have had to rewrite their constitution afresh because the basic values were not accepted by all major social groups or political parties. In some other countries, the constitution exists as a mere piece of paper. No one actually follows it. The experience of our constitution is different.
  • Over the last half a century, several groups have questioned some provisions of the constitution. But no large social group or political party has ever questioned the legitimacy of the constitution itself.

Fortunately, I .... working alone otherwise I would have got really bored at the night shift.
  • a)
    was supposed to
  • b)
    was to
  • c)
     was used to
  • d)
    would
  • e)
    used to
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Ritu Menon answered
Explanation:

The given sentence is in the past tense, which suggests that the speaker is talking about a past experience or situation. The sentence talks about the speaker's experience of working alone during the night shift.

The correct answer is "was used to" because it implies that the speaker was accustomed to working alone during the night shift, and it was not a new or uncomfortable experience for them.

Let's break down the options and see why they are incorrect:

a) "was supposed to" implies that there was some expectation or obligation for the speaker to work alone during the night shift, but it doesn't convey the idea that the speaker was comfortable with it.

b) "was" is a simple past tense verb that doesn't convey any sense of habit or routine, so it doesn't fit in the context of the sentence.

c) "was used to" is the correct answer because it implies that the speaker had become accustomed to working alone during the night shift, and it was a familiar experience for them.

d) "would" suggests a hypothetical or conditional situation, which doesn't fit in the context of the sentence.

e) "used to" is incorrect because it is a present tense verb that doesn't match the past tense of the sentence.

In summary, the correct answer is "was used to" because it accurately conveys the idea that the speaker was accustomed to working alone during the night shift.

Don't be so hard on yourself. It ______ (may / be) your fault. 
Correct answer is 'may not have been'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Rana answered
Don't be so hard on yourself. It may not have been your fault.
Here, "may" is used to convey a sense of possibility and to offer comfort and support to the listener by suggesting that the situation might not be entirely their fault.

Smallest cranial nerve :-
  • a)
    Abducens
  • b)
    Optic
  • c)
    Olfactory
  • d)
    Auditory
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Raghav Bansal answered
The abducens nerve (or abducent nerve) is the sixth cranial nerve (CNVI), in humans, that controls the movement of the lateral rectus muscle, responsible for outward gaze.

The rest of the class did pretty well. I _____ (should / study) harder. 
Correct answer is 'should have studied'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Rana answered
The correct modal verb to use in this context is "should."
So the complete sentence would be: "The rest of the class did pretty well. I should have studied harder."
"Should" is used to express obligation, duty, or advisability.

As a young woman who had never given birth before, she ---- what the experience of childbirth ---- like.
  • a)
    doesn't know / will be
  • b)
    may not know / is
  • c)
    must not have known / will be
  • d)
    may not know / would be
  • e)
    couldn't have known / would be
Correct answer is option 'E'. Can you explain this answer?

Vikas Kapoor answered
The speaker is 100% sure about the reason as the young woman did not give birth earlier, also couldn't have known is used to show 100% certainty. Might, May etc shows chances of other possibilities, hence couldn't have known is the correct answer.

We all think that Maria ---- an interesting person to meet as we ---- a lot of stories about her so far.
  • a)
     is / had heard
  • b)
    can be / heard
  • c)
    might have been / hear
  • d)
    would be / have heard
  • e)
    will be / will have heard
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Krishna Iyer answered
In the sentence, the persons are making imagination, in the future he/she will come to know the reality, so the future tense verb will be used i.e. would be.
We all think that Maria would be an interesting person to meet as we have heared a lot of stories about her so far.
 

State whether the verbs in the following sentences are used transitively or intransitively.
The driver stopped the car.
  • a)
    Transitive Verb
  • b)
    Intransitive Verb
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Jayant Mishra answered
Transitive verbs are not just verbs that can take an object; they demand objects. Without an object to affect, the sentence that a transitive verb inhabits will not seem complete.

Example : Please bring coffee.
In this sentence, the verb bring is transitive; its object is coffee, the thing that is being brought. Without an object of some kind, this verb cannot function.

I don't know why she didn't ask me how to do it as I ---- her.
  • a)
    must have helped
  • b)
    could have helped
  • c)
    might help
  • d)
    should have helped
  • e)
    could help
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Divya Saha answered
Explanation:

This question is based on the concept of modal verbs and their usage in different situations. Modal verbs are used to express different degrees of possibility, ability, permission, obligation, etc. Let's look at the options one by one.

(a) "must have helped" - This option implies a strong obligation or certainty about the past action. It suggests that the speaker is sure that he helped the person, and it is surprising that she did not ask for help. However, this option does not fit the context of the sentence, which is about a missed opportunity to offer help.

(b) "could have helped" - This option suggests a possibility or potential for helping, but it also implies that the speaker did not actually help the person. It fits the context of the sentence, which is about a missed opportunity to offer help. The speaker is saying that he had the ability to help, but the other person did not ask for it.

(c) "might help" - This option suggests a possibility or potential for helping, but it is weaker than "could have helped". It implies that the speaker is not sure if he would have been able to help or not. It does not fit the context of the sentence, which is about a missed opportunity to offer help.

(d) "should have helped" - This option implies a moral obligation or duty to help, and it suggests that the speaker failed to fulfill that obligation. It does not fit the context of the sentence, which is about a missed opportunity to offer help.

(e) "could help" - This option suggests a potential for helping in the present or future. It does not fit the context of the sentence, which is about a missed opportunity to offer help.

Therefore, the correct answer is (b) "could have helped".

Choose the sentence that does not have an intransitive verb.
  • a)
    The farmer grows wheat.
  • b)
    The farmer grows.
  • c)
    He has grown fat.
  • d)
    I am feeling unwell.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Partho Iyer answered
The sentence "The farmer grows wheat" does not have an intransitive verb.

Explanation:
An intransitive verb is a verb that does not require an object to complete its meaning. It expresses an action or a state that does not transfer to an object. Let's analyze each sentence to determine whether it contains an intransitive verb.

a) The farmer grows wheat.
- This sentence contains the verb "grows," which is transitive because it requires an object ("wheat") to complete its meaning. Therefore, it does not have an intransitive verb.

b) The farmer grows.
- This sentence contains the verb "grows," which is transitive because it requires an object to complete its meaning. However, in this sentence, there is no object provided, making it incomplete. Nonetheless, it does not have an intransitive verb.

c) He has grown fat.
- This sentence contains the verb "has grown," which is also transitive because it requires an object ("fat") to complete its meaning. Therefore, it does not have an intransitive verb.

d) I am feeling unwell.
- This sentence contains the verb "am feeling," which is intransitive because it does not require an object to complete its meaning. It expresses a state or condition without transferring the action to an object.

To summarize, the sentence "The farmer grows wheat" does not have an intransitive verb because the verb "grows" is transitive and requires an object to complete its meaning.

Choose the sentence that does not have an intransitive verb.
  • a)
    Donkeys bray.
  • b)
    The boat capsized.
  • c)
    Cheetahs run fast.
  • d)
    Girls wear skirts.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Jayant Mishra answered
In answer to the question 'what do girls wear' you get the answer 'skirts'. This option has an object whereas all the other options do not have an object

No, I _________ (ought to / copy) them. 
Correct answer is 'ought to copy'. Can you explain this answer?

Explanation:

The correct answer is "ought to have copied". Let's break down the sentence to understand the answer better:



  • The sentence is in the past tense, which means that the action has already taken place.

  • "Ought to" is a modal verb used to express necessity or obligation.

  • The verb "copy" is in the infinitive form, which means it has not been conjugated to match the subject.



Using "ought to have" in the sentence:

Since the action has already taken place, we need to use "ought to have" instead of "ought to". "Ought to have" is used to express a missed opportunity or regret about a past action or event.


Using the past participle:

The verb "copy" needs to be changed to its past participle form, which is "copied". This is because the action has already taken place.


Putting it all together:

Therefore, the correct sentence is "No, I ought to have copied them."

What ---- to Phil? He said he ---- here at eight o'clock.
  • a)
    can have happened / would be. 
  • b)
    should have happened / has been
  • c)
    may happen / will have been
  • d)
    would happen / is
  • e)
    might have happened / will be
Correct answer is option 'E'. Can you explain this answer?

Avinash Sharma answered
Correct option is E. might have happened / will be
This is the correct choice because the first part "What might have happened to Phil?" is a speculation about what could have possibly occurred to Phil. The second part "He said he will be here at eight o'clock." is referring to a future event that Phil had planned. Both parts are grammatically correct and contextually appropriate. The other options do not fit contextually and/or are grammatically incorrect.

Some UFO sightings ---- (not explain) easily. No one is able to explain them easily.
Correct answer is 'cannot be explained'. Can you explain this answer?

Ishani Rane answered
 
Some UFO sightings cannot be explained easily. No one is able to explain them easily.
In the sentence "Some UFO sightings cannot be explained easily," the modal verb "cannot" is used to express impossibility or extreme difficulty in achieving something—in this case, the act of explaining certain UFO sightings. The nature of these sightings is often mysterious, lacking clear evidence, definitive characteristics, or reliable eyewitness accounts, which makes forming a logical, scientific explanation challenging.

Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ) with solutions are available for Practice, which would help you prepare for "Transitive and Intransitive Verbs" under English Language Grammar. You can practice these practice quizzes as per your speed and improvise the topic. The same topic is covered under various competitive examinations like - CAT, GMAT, Bank PO, SSC and other competitive examinations.
 
Q. Choose the sentence that does not have a transitive verb.
  • a)
    The moon shimmers.
  • b)
    I killed a lion.
  • c)
    I stole the books.
  • d)
    I recited a poem.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Suhani Patel answered
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Try to speak slowly when you give your speech, If you don't, some of your words ---- (misunderstand).
Correct answer is 'might be misunderstood'. Can you explain this answer?

Rhea Gutgutia answered
Slow speech to avoid Misunderstandings

Introduction: Speaking clearly and slowly is important to ensure that your message is conveyed effectively. If you speak too fast, your audience may not be able to keep up with what you are saying, and some of your words may be misunderstood.

The problem: Misunderstandings can occur when words are not pronounced clearly or when they are spoken too quickly. This can be frustrating for both the speaker and the listener, as it can lead to confusion and miscommunication.

The solution: Speaking slowly is the key to avoiding misunderstandings. When you speak slowly, you give your audience time to process what you are saying and to understand the meaning behind your words. This will help to ensure that your message is conveyed clearly and effectively.

Benefits of speaking slowly:

- Helps to improve communication: Speaking slowly allows you to be more articulate and precise, which can help to improve the clarity of your message. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and improve overall communication.

- Makes it easier for your audience to follow along: When you speak slowly, your audience has more time to process what you are saying, which can make it easier for them to follow along and understand your message.

- Can help to reduce anxiety: Speaking too quickly can make you feel anxious and nervous, which can impact your performance. Speaking slowly can help to reduce anxiety and improve your overall confidence.

Conclusion: In conclusion, speaking slowly is important to avoid misunderstandings and ensure that your message is conveyed effectively. By taking the time to speak clearly and at a reasonable pace, you can improve communication, make it easier for your audience to follow along, and reduce anxiety.

Choose the sentence that does not have an intransitive verb.
  • a)
    The customer is buying this afternoon.
  • b)
    They were crying all day long.
  • c)
    The customer is buying pancakes.
  • d)
    She giggled at the joke.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

EduRev GMAT answered
a) The customer is buying this afternoon.
  • The verb "buying" does not have a direct object in this sentence, making it intransitive. It indicates an action without specifying what is being bought.
b) They were crying all day long.
  • The verb "crying" is intransitive because it doesn't have a direct object. It expresses an action that the subject is performing without acting upon an object.
c) The customer is buying pancakes.
  • The verb "buying" is transitive here because it has a direct object, "pancakes." The action is being done to something (pancakes), which makes this sentence different from the others.
d) She giggled at the joke.
  • The verb "giggled" is intransitive because it doesn't have a direct object. The phrase "at the joke" is a prepositional phrase, not a direct object.
Therefore, the only sentence with a transitive verb is c) The customer is buying pancakes.
 

After the voyaging ship was wrecked during a storm at sea, unfortunately, only two of the men on board .... swim to the small island nearby.
  • a)
    might
  • b)
    were supposed to
  • c)
    could
  • d)
    were able to
  • e)
    had to
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Nidhi Khanna answered
Explanation:

The sentence talks about an unfortunate incident where a ship was wrecked during a storm at sea, and only two of the men on board were able to swim to the small island nearby. The correct option to fill in the blank is "were able to". Here's why:

Headings:
- Context
- Meaning of options
- Elimination process
- Conclusion

Context:
- The sentence talks about a storm that caused a shipwreck and only two men could swim to an island nearby.

Meaning of options:
- Might: This option means that the two men "might" have swum to the island, but we cannot be sure. It does not convey a definite meaning, so it is not the correct answer.
- Were supposed to: This option means that the two men were "supposed to" swim to the island, but it does not convey whether they actually did or not. It is not the correct answer.
- Could: This option means that the two men "could" have swum to the island, but it does not convey whether they actually did or not. It is not the correct answer.
- Were able to: This option means that the two men "were able to" swim to the island, which is the correct meaning conveyed by the sentence.
- Had to: This option means that the two men "had to" swim to the island, but it does not convey whether they actually did or not. It is not the correct answer.

Elimination process:
- We can eliminate the options "might", "were supposed to", "could", and "had to" because they do not convey the correct meaning in the given sentence.
- The only option remaining is "were able to".

Conclusion:
- The correct option to fill in the blank is "were able to" because it conveys the meaning that only two men were capable of swimming to the island.

State whether the verbs in the following sentences are used transitively or intransitively.
The rider fell off the horse and broke his arm.
  • a)
    Intransitive verb
  • b)
    Transitive Verb
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Mahi Chauhan answered
Explanation:

The verb "fell" in the sentence is used intransitively, as it does not take a direct object. It describes the action of the rider moving downward from the horse.

On the other hand, the verb "broke" is used transitively because it takes a direct object, which is "his arm". The action of breaking is being done to the arm.

To further understand the difference between transitive and intransitive verbs, let's examine their definitions and examples.

Transitive Verbs:
- Transitive verbs are action verbs that require a direct object to complete their meaning.
- They express an action that is done to someone or something.
- The action is transferred from the subject to the object.
- Examples: break, eat, kick, write

Intransitive Verbs:
- Intransitive verbs do not require a direct object to complete their meaning.
- They express an action that does not transfer to anyone or anything.
- The action is only applied to the subject.
- Examples: fall, sleep, laugh, run

In the given sentence, "fell" describes the action of the rider moving downward from the horse. It does not have a direct object, so it is an intransitive verb.

However, "broke" describes the action of the rider causing damage to his arm. The action is being done to the arm, which acts as the direct object. Therefore, it is a transitive verb.

In summary, the verb "fell" is used intransitively, while the verb "broke" is used transitively in the sentence "The rider fell off the horse and broke his arm."

I found this book on my desk when I came to class. It (leave) by one of the students in the earlier class.
Correct answer is 'must have been left'. Can you explain this answer?

Krishna Iyer answered
I found this book on my desk when I came to class. It must have been left by one of the students in the earlier class.
In this context, finding a book on your desk that wasn't there before suggests that it was left there by someone else, presumably during a time you were not present, such as an earlier class. "Must" is a modal verb that indicates a high degree of certainty about a past action, especially when direct evidence or firsthand knowledge is lacking but the circumstances strongly point to a specific conclusion.

State whether the verbs in the following sentences are used transitively or intransitively.
You must speak the truth.
  • a)
    Transitive Verb
  • b)
    Intransitive verb
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Transitive and Intransitive Verbs:
Transitive and intransitive verbs are two types of verbs that are used to describe the action or state of being in a sentence. The main difference between these two types of verbs lies in their ability to take a direct object.

Transitive Verbs:
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object to complete its meaning. In other words, it is an action verb that transfers the action onto the recipient or the object of the verb. The direct object receives the action of the verb and answers the question "what" or "whom" after the verb.

Intransitive Verbs:
An intransitive verb is a verb that does not require a direct object to complete its meaning. It is an action verb that does not transfer the action to anyone or anything. Intransitive verbs typically express a complete thought without the need for a direct object.

Explanation:
In the sentence "You must speak the truth," the verb "speak" is used transitively.

Transitive Verb:
The verb "speak" requires a direct object to complete its meaning. In this sentence, the direct object is "the truth." Without the direct object, the sentence would be incomplete and the meaning would be unclear.

Example:
- You must speak (incomplete)
- You must speak the truth (complete)

Intransitive Verb:
If the sentence were written as "You must speak," without the direct object "the truth," the verb "speak" would be used intransitively. However, in the given sentence, "the truth" is necessary to complete the meaning of the verb "speak."

Conclusion:
Therefore, in the sentence "You must speak the truth," the verb "speak" is used transitively because it requires a direct object ("the truth") to complete its meaning.

Choose the sentence that does not have an intransitive verb.
  • a)
    The telecaller is answering questions.
  • b)
    The telecaller is answering at this moment.
  • c)
    She sleeps too much.
  • d)
    He complains frequently.
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

In answer to the question 'what does the telecaller answer' you get the answer 'questions'. This option has an object whereas all the other options do not have an object. Note that 'answering' is appearing both as an intransitive verb and a transitive verb. There are many more verbs that can be used as an intransitive verb or a transitive verb

Martin ---- my tennis racket without asking my permission. I got really angry with him.
  • a)
    needn't have taken
  • b)
    must not have taken
  • c)
    shouldn't have taken
  • d)
    didn't need to taken
  • e)
    might not have taken
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Superk Vaidya answered
Option A is incorrect because there is no mention whether he needed it or not. It is specifically for taking the tennis racket without permission. Option B is incorrect because "must" is a word use for ethical behaviour which is not relevant here. Option D is grammatically incorrect. Option E is again irrelevant because of past tense. So, only Option C is valid as it relates to the permission that Martin did not take.

What? You tripped over a chair at the party and dropped your plate of food into a woman's lap? You ---- (embarrass)!
Correct answer is 'must have been embarrassed'. Can you explain this answer?

Krishna Iyer answered
What? You tripped over a chair at the party and dropped your plate of food into a woman's lap? You must be embarrased!
This construction implies a strong likelihood or assumption. In this context, it suggests that it's highly probable or expected for the person to feel embarrassed given the situation described. It's a natural response to such an embarrassing event.

 The entire valley ---- (see) from their mountain home.
Correct answer is 'can be seen'. Can you explain this answer?

Kamakshi Singh answered
Explanation:

The sentence is in the present tense and talks about a current situation. It describes the view from a mountain home and implies that the entire valley is visible from there.

Subject-verb agreement:
- The subject of the sentence is 'the entire valley', which is singular.
- The correct verb form to use with a singular subject is 'can be seen'.

Meaning:
- 'Can be seen' means that the valley is visible or able to be seen from the mountain home.
- This makes sense in the context of the sentence, as it describes a view from a high vantage point.

Other possible verb forms:
- 'Is seen' would also be grammatically correct, but 'can be seen' is more idiomatic and natural-sounding in this context.
- 'Sees' is incorrect because it would imply that the valley is the one doing the seeing, rather than being seen.

Conclusion:
- Overall, 'can be seen' is the most appropriate verb form to use in this sentence, as it is grammatically correct and conveys the intended meaning clearly and accurately.

I ______ go to the club with you on Saturday, but I am visiting my parents and am not sure if they have made plans for me.
Correct answer is 'could'. Can you explain this answer?

Chirag Roy answered
Explanation:

Could vs Can:
- The word "could" is used to express a possibility or ability to do something, while "can" is used to show capability or permission.
- In this context, using "could" indicates the speaker's ability to go to the club is conditional on their parents' plans.

Politeness and Uncertainty:
- Using "could" in this sentence adds a polite and tentative tone to the response.
- It shows that the speaker is considering the invitation but is unsure due to potential conflicting plans.

Consideration for Parents:
- Mentioning the visit to parents and their possible plans demonstrates the speaker's respect for their family commitments.
- It shows that the speaker prioritizes their family obligations over social activities.

Balancing Social Life and Family:
- By mentioning the conflicting priorities, the speaker highlights the need to balance social life with family responsibilities.
- It portrays a sense of maturity and consideration in decision-making.

Conclusion:
- In this scenario, using "could" effectively conveys the speaker's polite uncertainty and consideration for family commitments. It showcases a balanced approach to managing social engagements and familial responsibilities.

‘Now I am here, I ____ give you your Christmas gift. Here it is.’
Correct answer is 'can'. Can you explain this answer?

Wizius Careers answered
‘Now I am here, I can give you your Christmas gift. Here it is.’
Can giving the gift was not a possibility until the person arrived. Also acceptable is ‘shall’.
The use of "can" indicates that the speaker has the ability or capacity to give the Christmas gift now that they are present. It suggests that the speaker is capable of performing the action of giving the gift.

What  you _______ (could / do) differently? 
Correct answer is 'could have done'. Can you explain this answer?

Pranav Singh answered
The correct answer is 'could have done'.

Explanation:

When we use the phrase "could have done," we are referring to a past action or decision that could have been done differently. It indicates a missed opportunity or a different choice that could have been made.

Example:
Imagine you are reflecting on a situation in the past where you made a mistake or could have acted differently. You might say:

"I could have done things differently."

In this sentence, "could have done" suggests that you had the ability or opportunity to make a different choice or take a different action at that time.

Usage:
"Could have done" is used to express regret, reflect on past actions, or consider alternative possibilities. It emphasizes the idea that something different was possible in the past but was not ultimately done.

Example:
Here are a few examples of how "could have done" is used in different contexts:

1. Regret:
- "I could have studied harder for the exam."
- "I could have been more supportive during their difficult time."

2. Reflection on past actions:
- "I could have handled the situation better."
- "I could have chosen a different career path."

3. Alternative possibilities:
- "We could have taken a different route to avoid traffic."
- "She could have chosen a different restaurant for dinner."

In all these examples, "could have done" acknowledges that a different choice or action was possible in the past but was not pursued.

Conclusion:

The correct answer "could have done" is used to discuss past actions or decisions that could have been done differently. It expresses regret, reflection, or alternative possibilities.

Don't be so hard on yourself. It just ______ (could / be) a more difficult test than usual. 
Correct answer is 'could have been'. Can you explain this answer?

Explanation:

The correct answer is "could have been" because it is a past tense modal verb phrase that indicates a possibility or hypothetical scenario in the past. Here's a breakdown of the grammar and meaning:

- "Could" is a modal verb that expresses possibility or ability.
- "Have" is the auxiliary verb that indicates the perfect aspect, which implies completed or ongoing action in the past.
- "Been" is the past participle of the verb "be" and is used to form the perfect aspect or passive voice.

Together, "could have been" suggests that the speaker is considering the possibility that the test was more difficult than usual, but is not certain. It also implies that the test is already over and the results are known, as the discussion is in the past tense.

Here's an example of the phrase in context:

- "I can't believe I did so poorly on that test. I studied so hard."
- "Don't be so hard on yourself. It just could have been a more difficult test than usual."

HTML breakdown:

Explanation:

  • The correct answer is "could have been" because it is a past tense modal verb phrase that indicates a possibility or hypothetical scenario in the past.

  • "Could" is a modal verb that expresses possibility or ability.

  • "Have" is the auxiliary verb that indicates the perfect aspect, which implies completed or ongoing action in the past.

  • "Been" is the past participle of the verb "be" and is used to form the perfect aspect or passive voice.

  • Together, "could have been" suggests that the speaker is considering the possibility that the test was more difficult than usual, but is not certain. It also implies that the test is already over and the results are known, as the discussion is in the past tense.

  • Here's an example of the phrase in context:


    • "I can't believe I did so poorly on that test. I studied so hard."

    • "Don't be so hard on yourself. It just could have been a more difficult test than usual."


Five of the committee members will be unable to attend the next meeting. In my opinion, the meeting ---- (postpone).
Correct answer is 'should be postponed'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Rana answered
Five of the committee members will be unable to attend the next meeting. In my opinion, the meeting should be postponed.
 
I used "should" to suggest a recommendation or advice based on the given situation, where five of the committee members will be unable to attend the next meeting. In contexts like these, "should" indicates that, in my opinion, the most appropriate or beneficial course of action would be to postpone the meeting.

Choose the sentence that does not have a transitive verb.
  • a)
    We showed her the flower vase.
  • b)
    The grocer is selling vegetables.
  • c)
    The grocer is selling this morning.
  • d)
    The coach advised me to practise daily.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Explanation:
A transitive verb is a verb that requires a direct object to complete its meaning. In other words, it is an action verb that transfers the action to the receiver or object of the verb.

Let's analyze the given options to identify the sentence that does not have a transitive verb:

a) We showed her the flower vase.
- "showed" is a transitive verb because it requires a direct object, which is "the flower vase."

b) The grocer is selling vegetables.
- "selling" is a transitive verb because it requires a direct object, which is "vegetables."

c) The grocer is selling this morning.
- This sentence does not have a transitive verb. "selling" in this context is an intransitive verb because it does not require a direct object to complete its meaning. It simply states the action of the grocer selling without specifying what is being sold.

d) The coach advised me to practice daily.
- "advised" is a transitive verb because it requires a direct object, which is "me."

Therefore, the correct answer is option C because it is the only sentence that does not have a transitive verb.

Choose the sentence that does not have an intransitive verb.
  • a)
    I jog.
  • b)
    The child gurgles.
  • c)
    I saw a movie.
  • d)
    She sobs.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Jayant Mishra answered
In answer to the question 'what did you see' you get the answer 'a movie'. This option has an object whereas all the other options do not have an object

Jessica (should/must) revise her notes before the exam.
Correct answer is 'should'. Can you explain this answer?

Devansh Shah answered
Reason for 'should' over 'must':

1. Recommendation:
Jessica is advised to revise her notes before the exam. The word 'should' implies a suggestion or recommendation, rather than a requirement or obligation.

2. Flexibility:
Using 'should' gives Jessica the flexibility to decide whether or not to revise her notes. It suggests that it would be beneficial for her to do so but does not impose a strict mandate.

3. Courtesy:
By using 'should' instead of 'must', the sentence conveys a polite and considerate tone. It shows that the speaker is offering advice rather than giving a command.

4. Possibility of alternative actions:
If 'must' were used instead of 'should', it would imply that there is no choice for Jessica but to revise her notes. However, by using 'should', it leaves room for other study methods or strategies that Jessica may find more effective.

5. Encouragement:
The word 'should' can also be seen as an encouragement for Jessica to take the initiative to review her notes, rather than feeling pressured or obligated to do so.
In conclusion, the use of 'should' in the sentence "Jessica should revise her notes before the exam" is appropriate as it conveys a gentle recommendation, allows for flexibility, maintains a polite tone, and encourages Jessica to take responsibility for her study habits.

Your daughter has a good voice. Her interest in singing ---- (encourage).
Correct answer is 'should be encouraged'. Can you explain this answer?

Varun Kulkarni answered
Encouraging Your Daughter's Singing Interest

There are different ways to encourage your daughter's interest in singing. Here's an explanation of why "must be encouraged" is the correct answer to the given statement.

Why "Must Be Encouraged"?

  • Using "must" emphasizes the importance of encouraging your daughter's interest in singing. It suggests that it is crucial to do so.

  • The phrase "must be encouraged" implies that it is an ongoing process that requires consistent support and motivation.

  • Encouraging your daughter's singing interest can help her develop her skills and confidence in this area, which can benefit her in various ways.



Ways to Encourage Your Daughter's Singing Interest

  • Listen to her sing and provide positive feedback. This can help build her confidence and motivate her to continue practicing.

  • Encourage her to participate in singing competitions or performances, which can give her opportunities to showcase her talent and receive constructive feedback.

  • Provide her with resources for improving her singing skills, such as vocal lessons or online tutorials.

  • Show interest in her progress and offer support and encouragement, even if she faces challenges or setbacks.

  • Connect her with other singers or musicians who share her interests, which can help her build a network and gain inspiration.



Conclusion

Encouraging your daughter's singing interest can help her develop her skills and confidence in this area, which can benefit her in various ways. Using "must be encouraged" emphasizes the importance of providing consistent support and motivation for her singing journey. By listening to her sing, providing positive feedback, offering resources and support, and connecting her with others who share her passion, you can help your daughter pursue her singing goals.

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