I used to have a pair of binoculars, but I it yesterday because I needed money. (Pawn)

The question presents an incomplete sentence requiring the correct verb to convey the intended meaning. The sentence describes a past action involving the disposal of binoculars due to financial need. The verb "to pawn" signifies temporarily surrendering an item to a pawnbroker as collateral for a loan, with the option to reclaim it upon repayment. Correctly identifying and using this verb is crucial for completing the sentence accurately. I used to have a pair of binoculars, but I pawned them yesterday because I needed money. Explanation of the Correction The original sentence used "pawn," which is the noun form (the object being pawned or the shop where items are pawned). The correct verb form, "pawned," indicates the action of giving the binoculars to a pawnbroker in exchange for money. This completes the sentence grammatically and logically conveys the intended meaning. Understanding the Verb "To Pawn" Definition: To deposit an object with a pawnbroker as security for money lent. Usage: The verb "to pawn" implies a temporary transfer of ownership, with the possibility of reclaiming the item. Contextual Importance The phrase "because I needed money" provides the crucial context for understanding why the binoculars were pawned. This clarifies the motivation behind the action and reinforces the correct verb choice. Grammatical Structure The sentence follows a simple past tense structure: "I + used to have + object + but + I + past tense verb + object + because + reason." Using "pawned" maintains this consistent tense and grammatical flow. The corrected sentence, "I used to have a pair of binoculars, but I pawned them yesterday because I needed money," accurately conveys the intended meaning and demonstrates correct English grammar. The use of the past tense of "to pawn" is essential for expressing the completed action of exchanging the binoculars for money due to financial necessity. This simple correction highlights the importance of verb tense and form in clear communication.

Question 34 | UPSC Mains ENGLISH 2021

Model Answer

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Introduction

The question presents an incomplete sentence requiring the correct verb to convey the intended meaning. The sentence describes a past action involving the disposal of binoculars due to financial need. The verb "to pawn" signifies temporarily surrendering an item to a pawnbroker as collateral for a loan, with the option to reclaim it upon repayment. Correctly identifying and using this verb is crucial for completing the sentence accurately.

I used to have a pair of binoculars, but I pawned them yesterday because I needed money.

Explanation of the Correction

The original sentence used "pawn," which is the noun form (the object being pawned or the shop where items are pawned). The correct verb form, "pawned," indicates the action of giving the binoculars to a pawnbroker in exchange for money. This completes the sentence grammatically and logically conveys the intended meaning.

Understanding the Verb "To Pawn"

Definition: To deposit an object with a pawnbroker as security for money lent.
Usage: The verb "to pawn" implies a temporary transfer of ownership, with the possibility of reclaiming the item.

Contextual Importance

The phrase "because I needed money" provides the crucial context for understanding why the binoculars were pawned. This clarifies the motivation behind the action and reinforces the correct verb choice.

Grammatical Structure

The sentence follows a simple past tense structure: "I + used to have + object + but + I + past tense verb + object + because + reason." Using "pawned" maintains this consistent tense and grammatical flow.

Conclusion

The corrected sentence, "I used to have a pair of binoculars, but I pawned them yesterday because I needed money," accurately conveys the intended meaning and demonstrates correct English grammar. The use of the past tense of "to pawn" is essential for expressing the completed action of exchanging the binoculars for money due to financial necessity. This simple correction highlights the importance of verb tense and form in clear 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.