Multiple choice

Directions: Look at the italic part of the sentence. Three possible substitutions (1), (2) and (3) for the italic part are given. If one of them is better than the italic part, mark it as the answer. If any of the substitution doesn't improve the sentence, mark (4).

I couldn't help to shed tears at the plight of earthquake victims.

  1. in shedding

  2. shedding

  3. shed

  4. no improvement needed
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
B Correct answer
Explanation

The phrase 'can't help' (or 'couldn't help') is followed by a gerund (-ing form), not an infinitive. The correct structure is 'couldn't help shedding tears', not 'couldn't help to shed'. 'Shed' without ing is also incorrect.

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