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GATE 2014 CS (CS3) – Question 1

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

“While trying to collect an envelope from under the table, Mr. X fell down and was losing consciousness.” The underlined phrases are I: “While trying to collect”; II: “from under the table”; III: “Mr. X fell down”; IV: “was losing consciousness”. Which phrase is NOT appropriate?

  1. I
  2. II
  3. III
  4. IV

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Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: (D) IV

Explanation

The sentence narrates a completed fall followed by loss of consciousness. The expected parallel past event is lost consciousness rather than was losing consciousness. Thus **IV,D** is the intended correction. The opening participial phrase correctly refers to MrX.