16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsVery hardPast perfect for restoration before an exhibition

Standard English Conventions practice question

The museum acquired the painting in 1952, and by the time of its first public exhibition in 1960 it ____ restored twice.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

  1. A. had beenCorrect
  2. B. has been
  3. C. was being
  4. D. will have been

Answer: A. had been

The restorations were complete before a past moment, 1960, so the past perfect is needed.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. has been
The present perfect does not fit a past deadline.
C. was being
The restorations were finished, not in progress.
D. will have been
The future perfect does not fit a past deadline.

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