This is as well as not knowing... they will arrive

Appeared in: AIIMS BHOPAL NO- 2018( Shift-2nd)

Explanation

The word 'When' correctly introduces a noun clause that acts as the object of the verb 'knowing'.
The noun clause 'when they will arrive' functions as an indirect question, answering 'knowing what?'.
In noun clauses referring to a future event, it is grammatically correct to use the future tense ('will arrive').

Option A: 'Before' is a subordinating conjunction that introduces an adverbial clause of time. In such clauses referring to the future, the simple present tense is required, not the future tense.
Option B: 'After' introduces an adverbial clause of time. When referring to the future, it must be followed by the simple present tense.
Option D: 'Until' is a conjunction for adverbial clauses of time. It requires the simple present tense for future events.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Grammar: Use of Conjunctions and Tense in Clauses as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Clear and grammatically correct communication is essential in all professional settings, including nursing, to avoid misunderstandings in documentation and patient instructions.
What if? If the sentence used the present tense 'arrive' instead of 'will arrive', the options 'before', 'after', and 'until' could potentially form grammatically correct adverbial clauses, but the meaning of the sentence would change completely and it would still be an incomplete thought without a main clause (e.g., 'We can't leave until they arrive').

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the sentence structure. Identify the main verb phrase ('not knowing') and determine what grammatical element is missing.
Recognize that 'not knowing' needs an object, which will be a clause (a group of words with a subject and verb).
Examine the clause that follows the blank: 'they will arrive'. Note the use of the future tense ('will').
Test each option. 'When' introduces a noun clause (an indirect question), which can correctly use the future tense.
Evaluate the other options ('Before', 'After', 'Until'). These introduce adverbial clauses of time. Recall the grammar rule that for future events, these conjunctions are followed by the simple present tense, not the future 'will' tense.
Conclude that 'When' is the only option that is grammatically compatible with the future tense 'will arrive' in this structure.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QNtG7qjySuiij2_2DZ4_QK

Practise the full AIIMS BHOPAL NO- 2018( Shift-2nd)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.