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GATE 2021 MT – Question 2

General Aptitude · Verbal Aptitude: Grammar and Vocabulary · 1 mark · Multiple choice

Consider:

(i) The number of candidates who appear for the GATE examination is staggering.

(ii) A number of candidates from my class are appearing for the GATE examination.

(iii) The number of candidates who appear for the GATE examination are staggering.

(iv) A number of candidates from my class is appearing for the GATE examination.

Which sentences are grammatically correct?

  1. (i) and (ii)
  2. (i) and (iii)
  3. (ii) and (iii)
  4. (ii) and (iv)

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (A) (i) and (ii)

Explanation

The number of is singular and takes is; a number of means several and takes are. Consequently sentences i and ii are correct, **A**. The plural noun inside the of-phrase does not control the first construction.