Complete the sentence:
Dare _______ mistakes
Correct Answer
Solution & Step-by-step Explanation
This question requires understanding the correct usage of the verb 'dare' when followed by another verb.
Understanding the Verb 'Dare'
'Dare' can function as a modal verb (like 'can', 'should') or as a regular main verb.
- As a modal verb: It is typically used in negative statements and questions, and is followed by the bare infinitive (the base form of the verb without 'to'). - Example: You dare not speak to him like that. - Example: How dare you enter my room?
- As a main verb: It is followed by the infinitive with 'to' ('to' + base verb). It can be used in positive statements, questions, and negative statements. - Example: She dares to question the manager's decision. - Example: He dared me to swim across the river.
Analyzing the Sentence: "Dare _______ mistakes"
The sentence structure "Dare _______ mistakes" is often used in an imperative or a general statement context, similar to how modal verbs are used. In such cases, the bare infinitive is the standard grammatical form.
Let's look at the options:
- 1. commit: This is the bare infinitive (base form) of the verb. The sentence "Dare commit mistakes" is grammatically sound, implying encouragement or a challenge to be bold and make mistakes.
- 2. to commit: This is the infinitive form with 'to'. While 'dare' can take 'to commit' when used as a main verb (e.g., "He dares to commit mistakes"), the structure "Dare ____ mistakes" typically calls for the bare infinitive.
- 3. committed: This is the past tense or past participle. It cannot grammatically follow 'Dare' in this sentence structure.
- 4. committing: This is the present participle/gerund. While 'dare' can sometimes be followed by a gerund, especially in negative forms like "He daren't be committing...", the bare infinitive 'commit' is the most appropriate and common choice for completing this specific sentence structure.
Conclusion
Based on the common grammatical patterns for the verb 'dare', especially in contexts similar to imperatives or general statements, the bare infinitive 'commit' is the correct choice to complete the sentence.