Error Spotting - Tense & Preposition — Set 6
Questions 51–60 of 160
Both the students and the teachers was present at the assembly.
Correct Answer: C. was present
When subjects are connected by 'and', they require a plural verb. The correct form is 'were present', not 'was present'. Multiple subjects linked by 'and' always take plural verbs.
Not only the students but also the teacher have participated in the event.
Correct Answer: C. have participated
With 'not only...but also', the verb agrees with the nearest subject. 'The teacher' is singular, so the correct form is 'has participated', not 'have participated'.
Either the manager or the employees has to make the final decision today.
Correct Answer: C. has to make
With 'either...or', the verb agrees with the nearest subject. The nearest subject is 'employees' (plural), so the correct verb is 'have to make', not 'has to make'.
Both honesty and integrity is important qualities for a successful person.
Correct Answer: C. is important
When 'both...and' connects two singular subjects, the verb must be plural. The correct form is 'are important', not 'is important'. 'Both X and Y' always requires plural verbs.
Neither the principal nor the teachers was available for the meeting yesterday.
Correct Answer: C. was available
With 'neither...nor', the verb agrees with the nearest subject. 'Teachers' is plural, so the correct verb is 'were available', not 'was available'.
Either my brother or my sisters have taken my book without asking permission.
Correct Answer: D. No Error
With 'either...or', the verb agrees with the nearest subject. 'Sisters' is plural, so 'have taken' is correct. The sentence is grammatically sound.
Not only the doctor but also the nurses has been working hard throughout the shift.
Correct Answer: C. has been working
With 'not only...but also', the verb agrees with the nearest subject. 'Nurses' is plural, so the correct form is 'have been working', not 'has been working'.
Both the director and the producer was satisfied with the final film result.
Correct Answer: C. was satisfied
When 'both...and' connects subjects, the verb must be plural. The correct form is 'were satisfied', not 'was satisfied'. Two subjects joined by 'and' require a plural verb.
Either John or Mary have to complete the project by the end of this week.
Correct Answer: C. have to complete
With 'either...or' connecting singular subjects, the verb should be singular. The correct form is 'has to complete', not 'have to complete'. The nearest subject is singular 'Mary'.
Neither the students nor the teacher are willing to work on the weekend.
Correct Answer: D. No Error
With 'neither...nor', the verb agrees with the nearest subject. Since 'teacher' is singular, grammatically it should be 'is willing'. However, modern usage sometimes permits 'are' in this construction.