What does this question test?
This question tests your skill in identifying subject in the sentence and ensuring that subject-verb agree in number. This question tests your understanding of comma + with modifier. Additionally it tests the idiomatic usage of like and such as.
What does this sentence mean?
This sentence states a fact about orb-weaving spiders. These spiders build webs in a wheel like structure. This structure has an outer rim and a number of spokes emanating from the hub. The sentence also gives an example of such orb-weaving spiders.
Loved the solution? Take a free trial to get unlimited access to concept files, live sessions, and practice questions. For any strategic advice for GMAT or MBA Admissions, write to us at acethegmat@e-gmat.com. We are the most reviewed GMAT prep company on GMATClub with more than 2400+ reviews
What are the errors in the original sentence?
Such orb-weaving spiders like the argiope build webs in an essentially wheel-like structure, with an outer rim and a number of spokes emanating from the hub.Idiom Error: To present examples “such as” should be used instead of “like”.
Modifier Error: The modifier “with an outer rim…” modifies the preceding clause since it is separated by a comma. However, it does not make sense for this modification. Essentially, this modifier describes the wheel-like structure and not the fact that spiders build these wheel-like structures.
Answer Choice Analysis
Choice B: Such orb weaving spiders as the argiope builds webs with what is essentially a wheel-like structure, with an outer rim and a number of spokes emanating from the hub.Subject-Verb Number Error: The subject – spiders – does not agree in number with the verb – builds.
Choice C: The argiope spider, in the same way as other orb weaving spiders, build webs in a structure that is essentially wheel-like, with an outer rim and a number of spokes emanating from the hub.Subject-Verb Number Error: The subject – argiope spider – does not agree in number with the verb – build.
Wordy: The sentence is very wordy – in the same way…
Choice D: Orb weaving spiders such as the argiope build webs that are essentially wheel-like, with an outer rim and a number of spokes emanating from the hub.No errors. Note that in this sentence, the “with modifier” modifies the preceding clause since it is separated by a comma. This modification is correct since the preceding clause is “that are essentially wheel-like”. Thus, this modifier is describing the wheel-like structures.
Choice E: Like other orb weaving spiders do, the argiope builds webs as essentially wheel-like, with an outer rim and a number of spokes emanating from the hub.Idiom Error: Like cannot be used to present clauses. “As” should be used instead.
Modifier Error: Similar to Choice A
Thus, Choice D is the correct answer.
What are the key take-away messages?
- With modifier separated by comma modify the preceding clause. Thus, when you see such modifier, ensure that this modification makes sense.
- Identification of subject is very important to ensure that the subject and verb agree in number.
- Like should not be used to present clauses.
- Such as should be used to present examples. Like should not be used to present examples.
Where can you find more information?
Register at e-gmat to access Sentence Correction free trial.
Loved the solution? Take a free trial to get unlimited access to concept files, live sessions, and practice questions. For any strategic advice for GMAT or MBA Admissions, write to us at acethegmat@e-gmat.com. We are the most reviewed GMAT prep company on GMATClub with more than 2400+ reviews
