Identify the part of the sentence that contains a grammatical error.
Language, in its performative function, (1)/ shape the very ontology (2)/ of social relations and categories (3)/ that structure human perception. (4)
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer: (2)
Explanation:
• Subject-Verb Agreement Rule: A singular subject takes a singular verb.
• In this sentence, the main subject is Language (singular). The modifying phrase in its performative function placed between commas does not affect the number of the subject.
• Therefore, the plural verb shape must be replaced with the singular verb shapes to agree with the singular subject Language.
• Corrected Segment: shapes the very ontology
Quick Tip: Ignore parenthetical phrases or prepositional clauses enclosed in commas when matching the subject to its main verb.