Determiner Choice for 'Time'
The sentence requires a determiner to quantify the noun 'time'. 'Time' in this context is used as an uncountable noun.
Understanding Uncountable Nouns
- Determiners like 'few' and 'a few' are used with countable nouns (e.g., few books, a few friends).
- Determiners like 'little' and 'a little' are used with uncountable nouns (e.g., little sugar, a little water).
Since 'time' is uncountable here, we must choose between 'little' and 'a little'.
Contextual Meaning
- 'Little' implies a very small, almost negligible, or insufficient amount. It often carries a negative connotation.
- 'A little' implies a small, but positive or sufficient amount.
The sentence states, "Dr. Kumar is very busy with her practice." This implies she lacks sufficient time for other activities. Therefore, the meaning is negative or insufficient.
Final Selection
The phrase 'little time' correctly conveys that Dr. Kumar has insufficient time due to her busy schedule. 'A little time' would suggest she has some time, which contradicts the context of being very busy.
Therefore, the most appropriate determiner is little.
Important Questions from Preposition
A policeman was asked to chase a thief. Before the policeman started the chase, he realised that the thief was 200 metres ahead of him and was running at a speed of 16 km/h. The policeman started the chase at a speed of 20 km/h. How far will the thief run before he is overtaken by the policeman?
Tom travelled 285 km in 6 hours. In his total travelling, he travelled the first part by bus at 40 km/hr and the remaining part by train at 55 km/hr. How much distance has he travelled by train?
- Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
She was brought ______ by her grandmother. - Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
The sun rises ______ the east. - Select the most appropriate option to fill in the blank.
He insisted ______ paying the bill.
