There _______ several reasons why the project was delayed beyond the original deadline.
9
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
were
B
was
C
has been
D
is
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests subject-verb agreement in "there" constructions.
- Context clues: The real subject is "reasons" (plural), which follows the verb.
- Meaning: In "there is/are" sentences, the verb agrees with the subject that follows.
- Verify: "There were several reasons" correctly matches plural subject.
💡 Strategy: In "there + verb" constructions, look after the verb for the true subject.
Choice B is incorrect because "was" is singular. Choice C is incorrect because "has been" is singular. Choice D is incorrect because "is" is singular.