Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Effective communication relies heavily on grammatical accuracy. Even seemingly minor errors can alter the intended meaning of a sentence. The given phrase, "His company is greatly after," is an example of such an error. It lacks proper grammatical structure and doesn't convey a clear message. Correcting this requires understanding the intended meaning – likely that the company is actively pursuing something – and restructuring the sentence accordingly. This demonstrates a fundamental understanding of English language mechanics.
Identifying the Error
The phrase "greatly after" is incorrect in standard English usage. "After" typically functions as a preposition or conjunction, not as part of a verb phrase modified by an adverb like "greatly." The sentence attempts to convey the idea that the company is actively seeking or pursuing something, but the construction is flawed.
Correcting the Sentence
There are several ways to correct the sentence, depending on the precise nuance intended. Here are a few options:
- His company is greatly interested in… – This suggests the company has a strong desire for something.
- His company is greatly pursuing… – This indicates active effort towards achieving a goal.
- His company is greatly seeking… – Similar to pursuing, but emphasizes the search aspect.
- His company is greatly in demand. – This implies the company's services or products are highly sought after.
- His company is greatly expanding. – This suggests the company is growing rapidly.
Grammatical Explanation
The error stems from a misuse of the adverb "greatly" with the preposition "after." Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. While "after" can indicate time or position, it doesn't function as a verb in this context. The correct usage requires a verb that expresses pursuit or interest, followed by a prepositional phrase indicating the object of that pursuit.
Illustrative Examples
To further clarify the correct usage, consider these examples:
- The detective is in pursuit of the suspect.
- The company is actively seeking new investors.
- She is greatly admired for her work. (Here, "greatly" modifies the adjective "admired.")
Common Grammatical Errors
Misuse of prepositions and adverbs is a common error in English writing. Understanding the function of each part of speech is crucial for constructing grammatically correct sentences. Regular practice and careful proofreading can help avoid such mistakes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the original sentence "His company is greatly after" is grammatically incorrect. The phrase "greatly after" is not standard English. Correcting the sentence requires replacing this phrase with a verb that accurately conveys the intended meaning, such as "interested in," "pursuing," or "seeking." A strong command of English grammar is essential for clear and effective communication.
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.