Q.1 Choose the most appropriate word from the options given below to complete the following
sentence.
A person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease __________ short-term memory loss.
(A) experienced (B) has experienced
(C) is experiencing (D) experiences
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Alzheimer’s disease short-term memory loss stands out as one of the most recognizable early symptoms of this progressive neurological disorder. It affects millions worldwide, making it a frequent topic in medical discussions, patient care guides, and even grammar exercises testing English proficiency. If you’ve encountered the sentence “A person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease __________ short-term memory loss,” you’re not alone—it’s a classic question on verb tenses.
This article breaks down the options, reveals the correct answer, and explains why it fits perfectly. Whether you’re preparing for exams like GATE, IELTS, or simply sharpening your grammar skills, understanding this helps clarify how we describe ongoing health conditions like Alzheimer’s disease short-term memory loss.
Correct Answer: (D) experiences
The verb “experiences” is the best choice because it conveys a general, characteristic symptom of Alzheimer’s disease. Short-term memory loss isn’t a one-time event—it’s a persistent feature of the condition. In English grammar, the simple present tense describes habits, facts, or states that are generally true, especially for medical conditions.
For example, we say “People with diabetes have high blood sugar” or “Asthma patients experience breathing difficulties.” Similarly, “A person suffering from Alzheimer’s disease experiences short-term memory loss” highlights this as a typical, ongoing reality.
Detailed Explanation of All Options
Let’s analyze each option step-by-step to see why only (D) works. This breakdown covers verb tenses and their uses, tailored to describing Alzheimer’s disease short-term memory loss.
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(A) experienced
This is simple past tense, used for completed actions in the past (e.g., “She experienced a headache yesterday”). It implies the memory loss happened once and ended, which doesn’t match the chronic nature of Alzheimer’s. Incorrect for a general symptom. -
(B) has experienced
Present perfect tense (“has/have + past participle”) shows past actions with present relevance (e.g., “He has experienced flu this season”). It suggests a specific past instance, not a defining trait. Wrong for ongoing conditions like Alzheimer’s disease short-term memory loss. -
(C) is experiencing
Present continuous tense (“is/are + -ing”) describes actions happening right now (e.g., “She is experiencing pain at this moment”). While it could fit a temporary situation, it feels too momentary for a hallmark symptom that’s not tied to “right now.” Less precise than simple present for general facts. -
(D) experiences (Correct)
Simple present tense for general truths, habits, or states (e.g., “Water boils at 100°C”). Perfect for medical facts: Alzheimer’s patients reliably experience short-term memory loss as part of the disease. This tense ensures the sentence reads as a timeless statement.
Why Grammar Matters in Medical Contexts
Choosing the right tense isn’t just academic—it’s crucial for clear communication in healthcare. Accurate phrasing in patient brochures, research papers, or educational content about Alzheimer’s disease short-term memory loss prevents confusion. For instance, using “experiences” reinforces that this symptom is expected and persistent, guiding better awareness and support.
If you’re studying English for science or medicine, practice with similar sentences: “Patients with hypertension _____ high blood pressure” (experiences/ have). The pattern holds.
