Question

    In  the question given  below, a sentence is given with a part of it printed in bold type. That part may contain a grammatical error. Each sentence is followed by phrases 1), 2), 3) and 4). Find out which phrase should replace the phrase given in bold to correct the error, if there is any, and to make the sentence grammatically meaningful and correct. 

    The locations for the trials was been previously surveyed and identified by the Geological Survey of India, highlighting the potential for valuable mineral resources beneath the ocean floor.

    A for the trials was being previous surveyed Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    B of the trials were previously surveyed of Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    C for the trials was been previously surveying Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    D for the trials were previously surveyed Correct Answer Incorrect Answer
    E no correction required Correct Answer Incorrect Answer

    Solution

    The subject "The locations" is plural, so the verb should also be in the plural form. The original phrase "was been" is incorrect; it should be "were" to match the plural subject. The phrase "previously surveyed" is also grammatically correct and fits well in the context. "The locations for these trials were previously surveyed and identified by the Geological Survey of India, highlighting the potential for valuable mineral resources beneath the ocean floor."

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