The correct option to fill in the blank in the sentence "He travelled to Jos .... train when he came last" is
A. by.
Step-by-Step Explanation:
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Understanding the Context: The sentence is discussing the mode of transportation used by the subject (he) to travel to a specific location (Jos). The blank requires a preposition that correctly indicates how he traveled.
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Analyzing the Options:
- A. by: This preposition is commonly used to indicate the means of transportation. When we say "by train," we are specifying that the train was the mode of transport used.
- B. in: This preposition typically indicates being inside something. While you can say "in a car," it is not standard to say "in a train" when referring to the mode of transport. It suggests being physically inside the train rather than using it as a means of travel.
- C. on: This preposition can be used in some contexts (e.g., "on a bus" or "on a plane"), but it is less common with "train." The phrase "on a train" is acceptable, but it does not fit the structure of the sentence as well as "by train."
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D. inside: This word indicates being within the confines of something. Saying "inside train" does not convey the intended meaning of using the train as a mode of transport. It is grammatically incorrect in this context.
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Why A is Correct: The phrase "by train" is a standard expression in English that indicates the method of travel. It is concise and widely understood. The use of "by" in this context is grammatically correct and idiomatic.
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Why Other Options are Incorrect:
- B. in: While it can be used in other contexts, it does not convey the intended meaning of traveling by train. It suggests being physically inside the train rather than using it as a means of transport.
- C. on: Although "on a train" is grammatically correct, it is less common in this specific structure. The phrase "by train" is more idiomatic and preferred in English.
- D. inside: This option is incorrect because it does not fit the context of the sentence. It implies being within the train rather than using it as a mode of transport.
Revision Summary:
- The correct answer is A. by because it indicates the means of transportation.
- "By train" is a standard expression in English for traveling using a train.
- Other options do not fit the context or are less idiomatic.
- Understanding the use of prepositions is crucial for constructing grammatically correct sentences.