MLAT Grammatical Structure & Syntax Recognition 4

Question 1

In the sentence 'The data suggest different conclusions,' why is 'suggest' plural?

Accepted Answer

'Data' is the plural form of 'datum' and takes a plural verb in formal usage.

Answer

'Data' is formally the plural of 'datum,' so in academic and formal contexts it takes a plural verb.

Question 2

Which construction illustrates an absolute phrase?

Accepted Answer

The storm having passed, we resumed the hike.

Answer

An absolute phrase has a noun plus a participle ('having passed') and is grammatically independent of the main clause.

Question 3

What does 'cleft sentence' mean, as in 'It was Maria who solved the problem'?

Accepted Answer

A construction that splits a clause to emphasize one element

Answer

A cleft sentence uses 'it + be' to foreground a specific constituent (here, 'Maria') for emphasis.

Question 4

Identify the passive construction: 'The report will have been submitted by Friday.'

Accepted Answer

Future perfect passive

Answer

'Will have been submitted' combines the future perfect auxiliary ('will have') with the passive participle ('been submitted').

Question 5

Which sentence uses a restrictive relative clause correctly?

Accepted Answer

The car that has the red bumper belongs to my neighbor.

Answer

Restrictive relative clauses use 'that' (no commas) to identify which specific car is meant.

(MLAT) Modern Language Aptitude Test Practice Test