Question

The following sentence tests correctness and effectiveness of expression. Part of the sentence or the entire sentence is underlined; beneath the sentence are five ways of phrasing the underlined material. Choice A repeats the original phrasing; the other four choices are different. If you think the original phrasing produces a better sentence than any of the alternative, select choice A; if not, select one of the other choices.

In making your selection, follow the requirements of standard written English; that is, pay attention to grammar, choice of words, sentence construction, and punctuation. Your selection should result in the most effective sentence-clear and precise, without awkwardness or ambiguity.

Some beaches are frequently contaminated by untreated sewage that flows into the ocean, which can last for several days.

• A. ocean, which can last for several days
• B. ocean that can last for several days
• C. ocean, it can last for several days
• D. ocean, while contamination can last several days
• E. ocean; the contamination can last for several days

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

ocean; the contamination can last for several days

Here, the reference of "which" is unclear: 'which seems to refer to the ocean which is illogical as the sentence means to say that it is the contamination that can last for several days in the ocean. Only E rectifies this error without creating any new error.