Grammatical Error: Indirect Speech | UPSC Mains ENGLISH-COMPULSORY 2016

I wanted that he should get leave.

How to Approach

This question tests basic English grammar and the understanding of reported speech. The task requires correcting the given sentence to adhere to standard English usage. The approach involves identifying the grammatical error (incorrect use of 'should' with 'wanted') and providing the correct phrasing. The answer should be concise and directly address the error. Focus on demonstrating a clear understanding of grammatical rules.

Model Answer

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Introduction

Correct grammar is fundamental to effective communication, particularly in a formal setting like the UPSC examination. The given sentence, "I wanted that he should get leave," contains a grammatical inaccuracy common in Indian English. While understandable, it deviates from standard English conventions regarding reported speech and the use of subjunctive mood. This answer will provide the grammatically correct version of the sentence and briefly explain the reasoning behind the correction.

The correct sentence is: I wanted him to get leave.

Explanation of the Correction

The original sentence incorrectly uses 'should' after 'wanted that'. In reported speech, when expressing a desire or intention, the structure 'want + someone + to + verb' is the standard form. The 'that' is also redundant and unnecessary in this construction.

Detailed Breakdown

Reported Speech: The sentence reports a past desire. Reported speech requires adjustments to verb forms and conjunctions.
'Want' as a Verb of Desire: When 'want' expresses a desire for someone else to do something, it is followed by an object pronoun ('him', 'her', 'them') and the infinitive form of the verb ('to get').
Subjunctive Mood: While 'should' can be used in the subjunctive mood, it's not appropriate in this context. The infinitive 'to get' directly conveys the desired action.
Redundancy of 'That': The conjunction 'that' is often omitted after 'wanted' when followed by a clause with 'to'.

Illustrative Examples

I requested her to submit the report.
He asked me to help him with the project.
They urged us to be careful.

The corrected sentence maintains the original meaning while adhering to the rules of standard English grammar, making it suitable for formal writing and communication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correction from "I wanted that he should get leave" to "I wanted him to get leave" demonstrates a fundamental understanding of English grammar, specifically regarding reported speech and the correct usage of infinitives after verbs of desire. Precise language is crucial for effective communication and is a valued skill in the UPSC examination and beyond.

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

Infinitive

An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by "to" (e.g., to get, to run, to eat). It functions as a noun, adjective, or adverb.

Key Statistics

A 2022 study by Cambridge Assessment English found that errors in grammar and vocabulary constitute approximately 20-25% of the errors made by Indian candidates in English language proficiency tests.

Source: Cambridge Assessment English Research Notes

According to the EF English Proficiency Index (2023), India ranks 82nd out of 113 countries in English proficiency, indicating a need for continued focus on language skills development.

Source: EF English Proficiency Index (2023)

Examples

Direct vs. Indirect Speech

<strong>Direct Speech:</strong> She said, "I will go to the market." <strong>Indirect Speech:</strong> She said that she would go to the market. This illustrates the change in tense (will to would) and the addition of the conjunction 'that'.

Frequently Asked Questions

▶Is 'should' ever correct after 'want'?

Yes, 'should' can be used after 'want' to express a sense of obligation or recommendation, but this is different from reporting a simple desire. For example: "I want you to be happy, and you should take care of yourself."