English Expression and Grammar Flashcards

Which sentence correctly uses a colon?

Answer: The following documents were required: passports, visas, and identification cards.

A colon introduces a list only after a complete independent clause; it should not interrupt a verb or preposition and its object.

Select the sentence that avoids the misuse of 'literally.'

Answer: The official literally walked the entire length of the corridor before responding.

'Literally' means something actually happened; only option D describes a physically possible action, not a metaphor.

Which sentence correctly uses a conditional construction?

Answer: If the visa is approved, the applicant will travel next week.

A real (open) conditional uses present tense in the 'if' clause and future tense ('will') in the main clause.

Identify the sentence with a misplaced modifier.

Answer: Carefully reviewed before the meeting, the diplomat found errors in the files.

In option B, 'carefully reviewed before the meeting' modifies 'diplomat,' but it is placed ambiguously and structured as a passive that precedes its subject incorrectly.

Which sentence uses 'fewer' and 'less' correctly?

Answer: There were fewer applicants this quarter, and the process required less time.

'Fewer' applies to countable nouns (applicants) and 'less' applies to uncountable nouns (time).

Select the sentence that correctly uses a dash (em dash).

Answer: The decision — made without consultation — surprised the entire team.

Em dashes set off parenthetical information and must appear as a pair around the inserted phrase, with no extra punctuation.

Which option correctly completes the sentence: 'The committee agreed that the policy ___ revised before the summit'?

Answer: should be

'Should be' expresses a recommendation or obligation referring to a future action, which fits the context of revising before an upcoming summit.