Parts of the following sentence have been given as options. Select the option that contains an adverb-usage error.
Benjamin and Lucas gently volunteered for the disaster management task.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: A
Explanation
The correct answer is option 1 i.e. gently volunteered.
Error concept: Adverb-usage error
What is wrong: The adverb “gently” is incorrectly used to modify “volunteered.” “Gently” refers to physical softness or mildness, which does not logically apply to the act of volunteering.
Grammatical concept: Adverbs modify verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs, but the meaning must logically fit the action.
Incorrectness of the concept in context: “Volunteered” is a deliberate action or choice; it cannot be done “gently” in the literal sense.
How to correct: Replace the adverb with one that logically modifies the action, such as “willingly” or “eagerly.”
Correct phrase/ correction: willingly volunteered
Final sentence: Benjamin and Lucas willingly volunteered for the disaster management task.
Hence, the chosen option is correct.