Difficulty: Easy
Correct Answer: by getting
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
This question focuses on the correct verb form after a preposition, especially in a phrase that shows manner or means. The sentence talks about not lowering oneself by entering into an argument. The bracketed phrase "by get" is clearly awkward and ungrammatical, so we must select the option that uses the appropriate form of the verb after the preposition "by."
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
In English grammar, when a verb follows a preposition such as "by," "in," "on," or "with," the verb is usually in the gerund form (verb plus ing). The pattern is "by doing," not "by do" or "by did." Here, "get" must therefore become "getting" to form "by getting." Also, the preposition "by" is the one that naturally shows the means or action through which the abasement would happen. Our goal is to choose the option that respects both the correct preposition and the gerund form.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Identify the preposition in the phrase. It is "by."
Step 2: Recall the rule: after a preposition, use the gerund form of the verb, for example "by reading," "by writing," or "by getting."
Step 3: Change "get" to "getting" to satisfy this rule.
Step 4: Check which option combines "by" with "getting." The correct combination is "by getting."
Step 5: Place it into the full sentence: "I would not abase myself by getting into an argument with him in public." This sentence now sounds natural and grammatically accurate.
Verification / Alternative check:
We can compare with similar structures: "He improved his pronunciation by listening to radio programmes," or "She saved money by cooking at home." In each case, the preposition "by" is followed by a gerund. If we replaced "getting" with another gerund, such as "arguing," we would still keep the same grammatical pattern, which confirms that "by getting" is the correct form here.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Option A: "on get" is wrong because "on" is not the natural preposition for means in this sentence, and "get" is not in gerund form. The phrase "on get" is ungrammatical.
Option B: "in getting" uses a correct gerund form but the preposition "in" does not fit the meaning of "by means of" or "through the act of" as effectively as "by."
Option D: "No improvement" is incorrect because the original phrase "by get" violates the rule that a preposition must be followed by a gerund or noun.
Common Pitfalls:
A frequent mistake is to forget that verbs after prepositions must normally be in the ing form. Learners may focus on the meaning and overlook the structure "preposition plus gerund." Another pitfall is not paying attention to which preposition best fits a particular context. In expressions that show the method used to do something, "by" is the most appropriate choice, as in "by working hard" or "by speaking clearly."
Final Answer:
The correct improvement is "by getting," so the complete sentence should be: I would not abase myself by getting into an argument with him in public.
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