Which of the following is correctly framed sentence?

Appeared in: RML Lucknow - 2021

Explanation

This question tests the correct structure of the third conditional sentence, which is used for hypothetical past situations.
The third conditional describes events that were impossible to fulfill because the past condition was not met, often expressing regret.
The correct grammatical structure is: If + Past Perfect (had + verb), followed by a main clause with would have + past participle.
The sentence 'Our school would have won the match if only we had concentrated' perfectly follows this structure, making it the correct answer.

Option A: This option incorrectly uses the present perfect tense ('have concentrated') in the 'if' clause. The third conditional requires the past perfect tense.
Option B: This option incorrectly mixes parts of the second and third conditionals. It uses 'would win' (second conditional result) with 'had concentrated' (third conditional condition).
Option D: This option incorrectly uses 'would have concentrated' in the 'if' clause. The 'if' clause of a third conditional never contains 'would'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Grammar: Third Conditional Sentences as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
This is an English grammar question that does not have direct clinical relevance.
However, strong language proficiency is crucial for nurses for clear and accurate patient documentation, effective communication with the healthcare team, and providing understandable instructions to patients and their families.
What if the nurse wrote in a patient's chart, 'Patient would be stable if he took his medication'? This is ambiguous. A more precise note using correct grammar, like 'Patient would have been stable if he had taken his medication,' clearly indicates a past missed opportunity and its consequence, which is vital for continuity of care.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify that the question asks for the grammatically correct sentence among options that describe a hypothetical situation.
Recognize that the sentences discuss a past event that did not happen (the team lost) and its hypothetical alternative (winning). This points to the Third Conditional.
Recall the specific structure for the Third Conditional: If-clause [If + had + past participle] and Main clause [would have + past participle].
Systematically check each option to see which one correctly follows this two-part structure.
Eliminate options with incorrect tense combinations, such as mixing present and past perfect, or using 'would have' in the 'if' clause.
Confirm that the chosen option strictly adheres to the third conditional rule for both clauses.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Psychology Baron Misra 5e Part 2 p. 243-245

Practise the full RML Lucknow - 2021

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