Multiple choice

Directions: In the following sentence, identify the word or words that are uncalled for (words which are redundant and are not required in the sentence) and should be omitted.

He went to the country last week and returned back yesterday.

  1. into

  2. last

  3. returned

  4. back
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

The word "back" is redundant when used with the verb "returned." Since "returned" means to come back or go back to a place, adding "back" creates a tautology. This is a common error in spoken English that should be avoided in formal writing.

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