What goes around … around.

Analyze the question

This is a well-known proverb: "What goes around comes around." You need to pick the verb form that completes it correctly. The question tests subject-verb agreement and fixed expressions (proverbs/idioms).

Explain the concept

• The subject of the second clause is the relative clause "What goes around," which is treated as singular (like "the thing that goes around").
• A singular subject in the simple present tense takes a verb ending in -s/-es: comes.
• Proverbs are normally stated in the simple present tense because they express general truths.

Step-by-step solution

1. "What goes around" is the subject, and it is singular. "Goes" is already in the singular present form.
2. The second verb must match it in tense and number: present tense, singular, so comes.
3. Check the other options: • A. is coming: present continuous, which suggests something happening right now. A proverb expresses a general truth, so this is wrong. • C. came: past tense, which clashes with the present tense "goes". • D. come: plural form, which does not agree with the singular subject. • B. comes: correct.

Answer: What goes around comes around.

Exam tip

When a sentence is a proverb or general truth, use the simple present tense. Also make sure both parts of a balanced proverb match in tense, such as "goes... comes". Similar examples: "Practice makes perfect" and "Birds of a feather flock together."