Question

'I prefer a pen than a pencil.' Which word in this sentence is an error?

• A. Prefer
• B. Pen
• C. than
• D. Pencil

Hint:

Memorize verbs that are followed by specific prepositions. For example: `prefer to`, `listen to`, `fond of`, `confident of`, `senior to`, `junior to`. The word `than` is used for comparison with adjectives in the comparative degree, not with the verb `prefer`.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question tests the correct use of prepositions with specific verbs. The verb 'prefer' is used to express a choice between two or more options. It follows a specific prepositional structure.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The standard structure for the verb 'prefer' when comparing two nouns is prefer + [noun] + to + [noun].
The given sentence is "I prefer a pen than a pencil."
It incorrectly uses the word 'than' for comparison. While 'than' is used with comparative adjectives (e.g., better than, taller than), 'prefer' always takes the preposition 'to'.
The correct sentence should be: "I prefer a pen to a pencil."
Therefore, the word 'than' is the error in the sentence.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The word that is an error in the sentence is than.