Multiple choice

Directions: The following sentences test correctness and effectiveness of expression. Part of each sentence or the entire sentence is underlined; beneath each sentence are five ways of phrasing the underlined material. Choice A repeats the original phrasing; the other four choices are different. If you think the original phrasing produces a better sentence than any of the alternatives, select choice A. If not, select one of the other choices.

Not until Edward Jenner developed the first anti-smallpox serum in 1796 there was protection against this terrible disease.

  1. there was protection against this terrible disease.

  2. protection was given against this terrible disease.

  3. there had been protection against this terrible disease.

  4. was there protection against this terrible disease.

  5. was protection given available against this terrible disease.
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Explanation for (1): Sentences beginning with negative words ought to use auxiliaries before the subject, as in the case of an interrogative sentence. 'Not until' ought to be followed by 'was there'.

Explanation for (2): Sentences beginning with negative words ought to use auxiliaries before the subject, as in the case of an interrogative sentence.

Explanation for (3): Sentences beginning with negative words ought to use auxiliaries before the subject, as in the case of an interrogative sentence.
Explanation for (4): Sentences beginning with negative words ought to use auxiliaries before the subject, as in the case of an interrogative sentence. 'Not until' ought to be followed by 'was there'. Hence, (4) Explanation for (5): Sentences beginning with negative words ought to use auxiliaries before the subject, as in the case of an interrogative sentence. This option corrects this error but sounds odd in context of the protection afforded.

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