Question

Which of the following sentences uses the correct form of the verb in the context of the passage?

• A. The Himalayas stares at you in silvery-white majesty.
• B. The Himalayas stared at you in silvery-white majesty.
• C. The Himalayas staring at you in silvery-white majesty.
• D. The Himalayas stare at you in silvery-white majesty.

Answer 1

Answer:

D. The Himalayas stare at you in silvery-white majesty.

Why this is correct:

• “Himalayas” is a plural noun (because it refers to a range of mountains) so it takes a plural verb.

• Hence “stare” (plural form) is correct, rather than “stares” (singular).

Why the other options are wrong:

• (A) The Himalayas stares ... — “stares” is a singular verb, which doesn’t agree with the plural subject “Himalayas.”

• (B) The Himalayas stared ... — Past tense doesn’t match the present tense style used in the passage. Also, the sense is more vivid/present.

• (C) The Himalayas staring ... — This isn’t a full finite verb; it’s a participle hence doesn’t form a correct main verb for the sentence.