Choose the most appropriate option to fill in the blank:
Even after watching the replay twice, the umpires could not agree on ______ the ball had brushed the batter’s glove before it reached the keeper.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 3
The correct answer is Option (3) → whether
Complete sentence: Even after watching the replay twice, the umpires could not agree on whether the ball had brushed the batter’s glove before it reached the keeper. The ball either touched the glove or it did not, and the umpires could not decide which.
| Option | Meaning and use | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) that | joins a fact that is reported or stated. It cannot come right after a preposition such as “on” | Meena told us that the shop opens at ten. |
| (2) if | shows a condition. It is not used right after a preposition such as “on” | If you are free on Sunday, come over for lunch. |
| (3) whether (answer) | shows a doubt between two cases. It can come right after a preposition such as “on” | We talked about whether we should go to Goa or Manali. |
| (4) unless | means if not | Grandpa does not drink tea unless it is very hot. |