Fill in the blank with the most appropriate option:
These days, lots of dust ______ blown into our classroom because the windows do not shut properly.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → is
Subject-verb agreement with “lots of”:
- After “lots of”, the verb agrees with the noun that follows it. A noun that cannot be counted takes a singular verb.
- Here the noun is “dust”, which cannot be counted. “These days” shows the present. So the verb is is.
- Complete sentence: These days, lots of dust is blown into our classroom because the windows do not shut properly.
Why the Other Options are Incorrect?
Option 1: are — Incorrect. “Are” is plural, but “dust” cannot be counted, so it is singular. Example: Lots of guests are expected at the reception.
Option 3: were — Incorrect. “Were” is plural, but the subject is singular. Example: Lots of plates were broken at the party.
Option 4: was — Incorrect. “Was” is singular, but it shows the past. The sentence is about now (“these days”). Example: Lots of food was left over after yesterday’s puja.