UPSC MainsENGLISH-COMPULSORY20125 Marks
Q53.

I the groceries for you tomorrow. (BRING)

How to Approach

This question tests basic English grammar, specifically the future tense and the correct use of verbs. The approach involves identifying the missing verb form to complete the sentence meaningfully. The answer should demonstrate understanding of grammatical rules and the ability to construct a grammatically correct sentence. The focus is on accuracy and clarity. No complex analysis is required; it's a straightforward fill-in-the-blank exercise.

Model Answer

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Introduction

The question presents an incomplete sentence requiring the correct verb form to express a future action. Understanding the context and applying the rules of English grammar, particularly the future tense, is crucial for providing an accurate response. This type of question assesses a fundamental skill in language proficiency, essential for effective communication and writing, particularly in the context of the UPSC examination where clear and concise expression is paramount. The sentence intends to convey a promise or intention to perform an action in the future.

The complete sentence is: I will bring the groceries for you tomorrow.

Explanation of Grammatical Choice

The original sentence fragment "I the groceries for you tomorrow" lacks a verb. The prompt suggests using "BRING" as the base verb. However, to indicate a future action, we need to use the future tense of the verb "bring," which is "will bring."

Future Tense Formation

The future tense is typically formed using "will" + base form of the verb. In this case, "will bring" correctly conveys the intention to perform the action of bringing groceries at a future time (tomorrow).

Alternative Constructions (Less Suitable)

While other constructions are possible, they are less natural or idiomatic in this context:

  • "I am bringing the groceries for you tomorrow." (Present continuous used for future arrangements - acceptable, but less direct)
  • "I bring the groceries for you tomorrow." (Simple present - incorrect, as it doesn't indicate future action)

Importance of Correct Verb Tense

Using the correct verb tense is vital for clear communication. Incorrect tense usage can lead to ambiguity or misinterpretation. In the context of the UPSC Mains examination, precise language is essential for conveying complex ideas and arguments effectively.

Illustrative Example

Consider the difference between:

  • "I bring the groceries tomorrow." - Incorrect.
  • "I will bring the groceries tomorrow." - Correct.

The second sentence clearly indicates a future action, while the first sounds awkward and grammatically incorrect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct completion of the sentence is "I will bring the groceries for you tomorrow." This demonstrates a fundamental understanding of English grammar, specifically the future tense. While alternative constructions might be technically possible, they lack the clarity and directness of the chosen answer. Accuracy in language is a crucial skill for success in the UPSC examination, and this simple exercise highlights the importance of mastering basic grammatical principles.

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.

Additional Resources

Key Definitions

Verb Tense
Verb tense indicates when an action takes place – past, present, or future. It is formed by changing the form of the verb.
Auxiliary Verb
An auxiliary verb (also known as a helping verb) is used in conjunction with a main verb to form different tenses, moods, or voices. 'Will' is a modal auxiliary verb used to form the future tense.

Key Statistics

According to a 2023 study by Cambridge Assessment English, approximately 60% of non-native English speakers struggle with accurate verb tense usage in formal writing.

Source: Cambridge Assessment English Report, 2023

A 2022 report by the Education World India School Ranking showed that English language proficiency is a key factor considered by 75% of parents when choosing a school for their children.

Source: Education World India School Ranking, 2022

Examples

Misuse of Tense in a Report

A government report incorrectly stating "The committee will submit its findings last week" instead of "The committee submitted its findings last week" could lead to confusion about the timeline of events and undermine the report's credibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it always necessary to use "will" for future tense?

No, other constructions like "going to" or the present continuous can also express future actions, depending on the context. However, "will" is the most common and generally accepted form for expressing simple future intentions.