Set 16: Boundaries

Explanation

Answer: D

PASSAGE

Neither the scientist nor the students _______ aware of the changes.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A. being

B. was

C. is

D. were✓ Correct

Detailed Answer Explanation

The correct answer is 'were' because of the rule: neither/nor agreement with closer subject.

Why others are wrong: A ('being' violates the grammatical rule: neither/nor agreement with closer subject.), B ('was' violates the grammatical rule: neither/nor agreement with closer subject.), C ('is' violates the grammatical rule: neither/nor agreement with closer subject.).