Question

Analyze the sentence for errors The sentence is: "The committee is divided (1)/over the issue of his appointment (2)/and this has resulted in much rancour (3)/among its members. (4)/No error (5)".

1. 1
2. 2
3. 3
4. 4
5. 5

• A. 1 only
• B. 3, 5
• C. All
• D. 3 only

Answer 1

Answer:

A. 1 only

• "Committee" is a collective noun.

• When the group is acting as individuals, a plural verb is used (e.g., "The committee are divided").

• However, British English prefers the plural verb in this context.

• Since the committee members disagree (i.e., they are divided), "are divided" is more appropriate.