Question

The reader was really angry at the inaccuracy of the article. A. The reader was really angry at the inaccuracy of the article. B. The reader was really angry with the inaccuracy of the article. C. The reader was really angry for the inaccuracy of the article. D. The reader was really angry in the inaccuracy of the article. E. The reader was really angry of the inaccuracy of the article.

Short answer

A. The reader was really angry at the inaccuracy of the article.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the key phrase

The key phrase of this sentence is 'angry at the inaccuracy'. We need to determine which preposition (at, with, for, in, of) properly fits in the context.

Understanding the use of prepositions

Let's evaluate the context in which 'angry' is used. 'Angry' commonly pairs with 'at' when expressing disapproval or irritation caused by something specific.

Evaluate each option

Review each sentence: A. 'angry at' is commonly used and makes the most sense. B. 'angry with' is less common and doesn't fit well in this context. C. 'angry for' is incorrect usage. D. 'angry in' is not grammatically correct. E. 'angry of' is not how 'angry' is typically paired.

Choose the correct option

From the evaluation, sentence A ('angry at') is the correct choice as it aligns with common English usage.

Key concepts

prepositions in English

Prepositions show relationships between elements in a sentence, often indicating time, place, or direction. They are small but mighty words. Choosing the right preposition can change the meaning of the sentence. In our exercise, we needed to choose the correct preposition that fits 'angry'. Let's look at some examples:

• Commonly, 'angry at' is used to indicate something that caused irritation (e.g., 'angry at the mistake').
  
• 'Angry with' is used more when referring to people (e.g., 'angry with her friend').
  
• 'Angry for' and 'angry in' are generally incorrect.
  
• 'Angry of' is never correct in standard English usage.
  

Always consider the context to pick the right preposition. Practice through examples will help solidify your knowledge.

common English usage

Common English usage relies heavily on familiarity with idiomatic expressions and conventional sentence structures. In our example, 'angry at' is the conventional choice. Let's break it down:

• 'Angry at' is widely recognized and used to express anger toward things or actions.
  
• Native speakers intuitively understand that 'angry at' implies disapproval of something specific.
  
• Using uncommon prepositions, like 'angry with' in this context, often sounds awkward because it deviates from familiar patterns.
  

Understanding and using idiomatic expressions correctly is key in mastering common English usage. Read widely and pay attention to patterns and phrases that keep appearing.

GMAT test strategies

The GMAT tests your grasp of grammar, syntax, and common English usage. Knowing how to choose the correct preposition is a part of this. Here are some strategies to help you excel:

• Read the sentence carefully to identify the key phrase (like 'angry at' in our example).
  
• Eliminate obviously incorrect choices. Some options, like 'angry in' or 'angry of', can be dismissed quickly.
  
• Think about common usage patterns and idiomatic expressions. This context-based approach will help you narrow down the options.
  
• Practice with plenty of sample questions to become more familiar with common pairings.
  

These strategies can streamline your process and increase your accuracy on the GMAT.

grammar and syntax analysis

Grammar and syntax are the building blocks of clear and effective communication. Syntax refers to the arrangement of words to create meaningful sentences, while grammar is the set of rules that dictate this arrangement.
In our exercise, analyzing the syntax helped us determine the correct preposition:

• The subject 'The reader' and the verb 'was angry' form the core of the sentence.
  
• The prepositional phrase 'at the inaccuracy of the article' provides additional context.
  

When we analyze sentences, we look at how the parts fit together to convey the intended meaning. Ensuring proper grammar and syntax is crucial for clarity and precision.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Regularly analyze sentence structures and your ability to spot errors will improve.