IPMAT Indore 2023 - VA Q67 Explanation

Explanation:

(a)

The use of "whomever" in Option 3 is considered correct in traditional grammar because it functions as the object of the preposition "for." The construction involves a prepositional phrase, where "whomever" serves as the object of the preposition and is linked to the verb "assigned."

Here's a breakdown: Original sentence: "When you play the ‘Secret Santa’, you are expected to buy a gift for whoever you are assigned, without letting them know that you are the one buying the gift."

In this sentence, "for whoever you are assigned" is a prepositional phrase. The preposition "for" requires the object form of the pronoun, which traditionally is "whomever" when used as an object.

Let's briefly review the other options:

who you are assigned: This option uses "who," which is an object pronoun. However, "whoever" is generally preferred in modern usage.

whoever you are assigned: This choice uses "whoever," which is the subject form of the pronoun and is considered grammatically incorrect.

whomever you are assigned: While "whomever" can be considered correct when following a preposition, some may find it more formal or traditional.

whom you are assigned: This option uses "whom," which is an object pronoun and is less common in modern usage. "Whoever" is often preferred for both subject and object positions.