Question

Choose the most suitable option to replace the highlighted part of the sentence: I was discussing about the issue with him.

• A. discussed regarding the issue
• B. had discussion on issue
• C. discussing the issue with him
• D. had been discussing about issue

Answer 1

Answer:

C. discussing the issue with him

The core grammar rule tested here is the superfluous (unnecessary) use of prepositions.

1 The Rule of the Verb 'Discuss':

The word "discuss" is a transitive verb, which means it directly requires an object to follow it without the help of a preposition. The definition of discuss itself means "to talk about." Therefore, adding the preposition "about" right after "discuss" makes it redundant (e.g., saying "discussing about" is grammatically equivalent to saying "talking about about").

2 Correct Structural Uses:

Active Verb Form (No Preposition): "We discussed the matter." (Correct)

Noun Form (Requires Preposition): "We had a discussion about/on the matter." (Correct)