In the given question, a sentence is divided into four parts and given in the alternatives (A), (B), (C), and (D). There is an error in one part. Choose the alternative containing that part of the sentence that has the error. Choosing the alternative with the error will be the answer.
The unprecedented decrease of direct taxes has increased the earning potential of the capitalists.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
decrease of direct taxes has
Explanation
The error lies in the choice of preposition following the noun "decrease."
When discussing a reduction in the amount, value, or rate of something, the correct fixed preposition to use is in, not "of." Therefore, the phrase should correctly read as "decrease in direct taxes." The preposition "of" is typically used when referencing the specific agent or source that is decreasing, rather than the category experiencing the decline.
The other parts—The unprecedented, increased the earning, and potential of the capitalists.—are grammatically correct and structurally sound.
Key Points
Nouns denoting change, such as decrease, increase, rise, or fall, require the preposition "in" when connected to the specific element or value that is fluctuating. Memorizing these noun-preposition pairings helps you spot immediate flaws in analytical and economic sentences.