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UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY201210 Marks
Q18.

I enjoy this type of music still now.

How to Approach

This question, while seemingly simple, tests the candidate's understanding of grammatical correctness and the appropriate use of tenses in English. The answer should focus on identifying the grammatical error, explaining the correct tense usage, and providing a corrected version of the sentence. The approach should be direct and concise, demonstrating a strong command of English grammar. The answer should not be unnecessarily verbose.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The sentence "I enjoy this type of music still now" presents a grammatical inaccuracy in its tense usage. The present continuous tense ("am/is/are + -ing") is generally used for actions happening at the moment of speaking or for temporary situations. The verb 'enjoy' expresses a habitual action or a state, which is best conveyed using the simple present tense. This response will identify the error, explain the correct grammatical structure, and provide a revised sentence demonstrating proper tense usage.

Identifying the Grammatical Error

The primary error lies in the combination of "enjoy" with "still now." "Still now" implies a continuous action up to the present moment, which necessitates the present continuous tense. However, 'enjoy' describes a preference or a habitual liking, which is better expressed using the simple present tense. The use of 'still' is also redundant as 'now' already indicates the present.

Correct Tense Usage: Simple Present Tense

The simple present tense is used to describe:

  • Habits and routines: "I enjoy listening to music every day."
  • General truths: "Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius."
  • Permanent situations: "She lives in Delhi."

In the context of the given sentence, 'enjoy' represents a continuing preference, making the simple present tense the most appropriate choice.

Corrected Sentence and Explanation

The grammatically correct sentence is: "I still enjoy this type of music." or "I enjoy this type of music now."

Explanation:

  • Removing "now" after "still" makes the sentence more concise and grammatically sound.
  • Using "still" with the simple present tense ("enjoy") indicates that the enjoyment continues up to the present moment.

Further Examples of Correct Usage

Consider these examples:

  • Incorrect: "I am liking this movie."
  • Correct: "I like this movie."
  • Incorrect: "She is knowing the answer."
  • Correct: "She knows the answer."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

A common mistake is to use the present continuous tense for states or feelings. Remember that states (like liking, knowing, believing) generally require the simple present tense. Actions (like running, eating, reading) can use either the simple present or present continuous, depending on the context.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the original sentence "I enjoy this type of music still now" is grammatically incorrect due to the inappropriate use of the simple present tense with "still now." The corrected sentence, "I still enjoy this type of music" or "I enjoy this type of music now," accurately conveys the intended meaning using the correct tense and avoiding redundancy. A strong grasp of English grammar, particularly tense usage, is crucial for effective communication and is a key skill assessed in the UPSC examination.

Answer Length

This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.

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Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Simple Present Tense
The simple present tense is a verb tense used to describe habits, general truths, and permanent situations. Its structure is typically the base form of the verb (or -s/-es for third-person singular).
Present Continuous Tense
The present continuous tense is used to describe actions happening now, temporary situations, or actions planned for the future. Its structure is "am/is/are + verb-ing".

Key Statistics

According to a 2023 report by Cambridge Assessment English, approximately 60% of candidates demonstrate errors in basic tense usage in English writing assessments.

Source: Cambridge Assessment English Report, 2023

A 2022 survey by British Council India revealed that 75% of Indian respondents believe that English language skills are crucial for career advancement.

Source: British Council India Survey, 2022

Examples

Incorrect vs. Correct Usage

Incorrect: "I am believing in her." Correct: "I believe in her." This illustrates the difference between using the present continuous for a state (belief) versus an action.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶What is the difference between 'like' and 'enjoy'?

'Like' generally indicates a mild preference, while 'enjoy' suggests a stronger, more pleasurable experience. Both are state verbs and use the simple present tense.

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