Answer:
a). False
b). singular only
Explanation:
a). The adjective 'local' which denotes 'from or in a nearby location' exemplifies a base word. In this word, the suffix '-al' is joined with a bound morpheme 'loc-' to make it meaningful. Bound morphemes cannot stand on their own to convey meaning and thus, it requires another suffix or prefix to accomplish its meaning. Thus, the statement is false as the 'local' itself is a root word used with various suffixes to derive words like locally, localized, locality, etc.
b). Grammatically, <u>the noun 'news' is considered singular, as well as, uncountable and therefore, it carries a singular verb</u>. It remains the same irrespective of the singular or plural context in which it is being used. It doesn't carry an indefinite article as it specifies the number of the noun. The noun 'news' varies its meaning in the context which it is used in. However, the form remains 'singular only.'
