passwella.
Menu

JAMB Use of English 1983 Question 91

Question 91

Tenses

Choose the phrase or word which best completes the meaning of the sentence: The mechanic said that he________ mend my car before Saturday

  1. A.can't
  2. B.couldn't
  3. C.can't be able to
  4. D.couldn't be able to
  5. E.won't be able to
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (couldn't)

Explanation

In reported speech after 'said', 'can't' becomes 'couldn't'; 'couldn't be able to' repeats the same idea twice.