Question

Correct the underlined part of the sentence. If there is no error choose "no change."

When for the first time the United States imported more oil than it exported, Americans should have realized that an energy crisis was imminent and could happen in the future.

• A. No change
• B. Could happen imminently in the future.
• C. Will be imminent and happening soon.
• D. Is an imminent thing.
• E. Might be imminent.

Answer 1

The correct option is E Might be imminent.

The adjective 'imminent' implies that something is going to happen. So, the use of 'could' later in the sentence is redundant. Replacing the entire underlined portion with 'might be imminent' is more apt. So, option E is the answer.