Set 16: Boundaries
Explanation
PASSAGE
The ancient manuscript, which remains controversial, _______ preserved successfully.
Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
Detailed Answer Explanation
The correct answer is 'has been' because of the rule: subject-verb agreement with singular subject. Subject-verb agreement requires matching the verb form to the subject's number. When the subject is singular, even with an intervening phrase or clause, the verb must remain singular. Phrases like "which was discovered" are parenthetical and do not change the singularity of the main subject.
Key Evidence:
• "The ancient manuscript, which remains controversial, _______..."
Why others are wrong: A ('were' is plural past tense and does not agree with the singular subject), C ('have been' is plural and does not agree with the singular subject), D ('being' is a present participle and cannot serve as the main verb alone).