This set of English Grammar Exercises (MCQs) focuses on “Sequence of Tenses – Present Tense”.
1. Is the following statement true or false?
Present Tense in the principal tense must be followed by present tense only.
a) True
b) False
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Explanation: The rule states that a present tense in principal clause can be followed by any tense in the subordinate clause. Of course, this depends on what is required by the sense of the sentence.
2. What is the correct alternative?
Dr. Raymond speaks as one who _________ a lot of experience.
a) had
b) having
c) has
d) will have
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Explanation: In this sentence, the principal clause is in present tense. According to the requirement of the statement, the subordinate clause must be in the present tense as well. Hence, “has” is the correct alternative in this case.
3. What tense fits best?
Whenever Father John ___________, everyone gathers to listen.
a) will preach
b) preached
c) preaches
d) is preaching
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Explanation: Here, it can be observed that the subordinate clause is in the present tense. The principal clause, with agreement to the sense, must also be in the present tense. In this case, “preaches” will be best fit.
4. Pick the correct option.
He exercises as much as he _____________
a) can
b) could
c) has
d) had
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Explanation: This sentence has present tense in the principal clause. The requirement of the meaning states that the subordinate clause must be in the present tense as well. So in this case ‘can’ is the correct answer.
5. Which of the following is the correct tense?
My daughter studies hard in order that she ______________ succeed.
a) should
b) might
c) shall
d) may
View Answer
Explanation: Although the main clause here is in the present tense, the subordinate clause is in the past tense. This is due to the requirement of the sense of the sentence. So, the correct option will be might.
6. Pick the correct alternative.
The Johns come over oftener than we _____________
a) shall expect
b) expect
c) expected
d) had expected
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Explanation: The main clause in this sentence is in present tense. However, according to the sense of the sentence, the subordinate clause is in the simple present tense. Hence, the correct alternative is ‘expected’.
7. Insert the correct alternative.
Peter walks as though he _________ secretly lame.
a) is
b) was
c) be
d) became
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Explanation: Here, it is observed that both the main and subordinate clause are in the present tense. This is because of the requirement of the meaning of the sentence.
8. Fill in the correct tense.
She speaks of Roy as though he __________ still alive.
a) was
b) will be
c) being
d) is
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Explanation: The main clause is in the present tense. Due to the requirement of the meaning in the sentence, the subordinate clause is in the present tense too.
9. Fill in the blank with the correct option.
He thinks that he __________ outsmart his partner.
a) shall
b) could
c) can
d) should
View Answer
Explanation: Both the clauses are in the present tense here. This is determined by the sense requirement of the sentence. So, can is the correct answer.
10. Which is the correct tense for the subordinate clause?
I work hard that my kids ___________ have all the luxuries in the world.
a) might
b) may
c) shall
d) can
View Answer
Explanation: The principal clause in this case is in present tense. Since the statement depicts purpose, the subordinate clause must also follow present tense. In this case, ‘may’ is the correct tense for the subordinate clause.
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