Question

common errors, question 15
when an entire sentence is underlined, look for commonly tested errors, and remember the 4 cs.
starting suddenly with a loud explosion, it startled me as the main feature was beginning

1. which choice makes the sentence most grammatically acceptable?

a. no change
b. i was startled when the main feature began with a sudden, loud explosion.
c. the main feature, loudly sudden, startled me with a beginning explo - sion.
d. a sudden explosion was the beginning of the main feature, it startled me.

1. question 15

a
b
c
d

Explanation:

To determine the most grammatically acceptable sentence, we analyze each option:

• Option A: The original sentence has a dangling modifier ("Starting suddenly with a loud explosion" doesn't clearly modify a subject) and awkward structure.
• Option B: "I was startled when the main feature began with a sudden, loud explosion" has a clear subject ("I"), correct verb tense, and proper modifier placement. It conveys the meaning smoothly.
• Option C: The phrasing "loudly sudden" is incorrect (should be "sudden, loud"), and the structure "started me with a beginning explosion" is awkward and illogical.
• Option D: It creates a run - on sentence ("A sudden explosion was the beginning of the main feature, it startled me") and has an awkward construction.

Answer:

B. I was startled when the main feature began with a sudden, loud explosion.