Question

Fill in the blank with a suitable verb:
Fortunately, the old car _______ not break down on the way.

• A. Was
• B. Did
• C. Had
• D. Is

Answer 1

The correct option is B Did

The given sentence is a negative sentence in simple past tense. In such a sentence, the auxiliary 'did' is used. Hence, option B is the correct answer.

Option A: The auxiliary 'was' is used in continuous tense. It is used in passive voice. It is also used to indicate a plan/ arrangement/ command in past tense. The given sentence is in active voice and is not in continuous tense. There is no plan/ arrangement/ command in this sentence. Hence 'was' cannot be used. This option is incorrect.

Option C: The auxiliary, 'had' is used in the formation of perfect tense and used with the infinitive to indicate an obligation in the past. However, this sentence is not in past perfect tense. Nor does it indicate any obligation. Hence, this option is incorrect.

Option D is incorrect as the auxiliary 'is' is in the present tense and not in past tense.