Directions : I tem in this section has a sentence with three parts labelled (a), (b) and (c). Read each sentence to find out whether there is any error in any underlined part. Indicate your response in the Answer Sheet against the corresponding letter, i.e., (a) or (b) or (c). If you find no error, your response should be indicated as (d). A bird in hand (a) / is better than (b) / two in the bush. (c) / No error (d)
(b)
Understanding the Sentence Error Question
The question asks us to identify the part of the given sentence that contains a grammatical error. The sentence is a variation of a common English proverb.
The sentence provided is: "A bird in hand (a) / is better than (b) / two in the bush. (c) / No error (d)"
We need to examine each underlined part ((a), (b), and (c)) to see if it follows standard English grammar or usage, particularly in the context of the well-known proverb.
Analysing the Parts of the Sentence
Let's break down the sentence part by part:
- Part (a): "A bird in hand". This phrase is the beginning of a common proverb. It refers to something you already possess or have secured. Grammatically, this part seems correct as the subject phrase.
- Part (b): "is better than". This phrase indicates a comparison. However, in the context of the standard English proverb, the comparison isn't typically phrased this way.
- Part (c): "two in the bush". This phrase refers to potential future gains or things you don't yet possess, contrasting with the "bird in hand". Grammatically, this part is correct as the object of the comparison.
Identifying the Specific Error
The sentence attempts to use the proverb "A bird in hand is worth two in the bush". This proverb means that something you already have is more valuable or reliable than the prospect of getting something better in the future.
The correct and standard form of the proverb uses the phrase "is worth two in the bush", not "is better than two in the bush". While "better than" implies a comparison of value, the idiomatic expression specifically uses "worth". Using "better than" here is a deviation from the established proverb and is considered an error in idiomatic usage.
Therefore, the error lies in part (b) of the sentence because it uses "is better than" instead of the correct idiomatic phrase "is worth".
Conclusion on the Sentence Error
Based on the analysis of the common English proverb, the phrase "is better than" in part (b) is incorrect. The standard proverb uses "is worth two in the bush".
Thus, the part of the sentence with the error is (b).
Revision Table: Common English Proverbs
| Proverb | Meaning | Example Usage |
|---|---|---|
| A bird in hand is worth two in the bush. | Having something certain is better than taking a risk for something uncertain. | I could quit my job for a potential promotion elsewhere, but I think a bird in hand is worth two in the bush. |
| When in Rome, do as the Romans do. | When in a new place or situation, follow the customs of the people there. | I don't usually eat dinner this late, but when in Rome, do as the Romans do. |
| Actions speak louder than words. | What you do is more important than what you say. | He promised to help, but actions speak louder than words. |
Additional Information: Understanding Idioms and Proverbs
Idioms and proverbs are fixed expressions or sayings in a language. They often have a meaning that is not immediately clear from the individual words themselves. Using them correctly is important for natural and accurate communication.
- Idiom: A phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be deduced from the meanings of the individual words. For example, "kick the bucket" means to die.
- Proverb: A short, well-known statement that expresses a general truth or piece of advice. For example, "Look before you leap."
Proverbs like "A bird in hand is worth two in the bush" are fixed phrases. Changing the wording, even slightly, can make the sentence sound incorrect or unnatural, even if the meaning is somewhat conveyed.
Similar Questions
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Important Questions from English Grammar
Select the most appropriate 'one word' for the expressions given below
A person who believes in or tries to bring about a state of lawlessness
Select the most appropriate 'one word' for the expressions given below
Urging or requesting (someone) solemnly or earnestly to do something
Four words are given, out of which only one word is spelt correctly. Choose the correctly spelt word.
Select the word segment that substitutes (replaces) the bracketed word segment correctly and complete the sentence meaningfully. Select the option 'no correction required' if the sentence is correct as given.
A natural-born mechanic and tinkerer, (he kept many an old flivver on) the road.
Identify the type of the clause in the brackets.
Our neighbour (who moved in last year) wants to borrow the chainsaw.
