Select the most appropriate word to complete the following sentence:
The hikers were able to reach the summit without _____ any injuries.
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → sustaining
Complete sentence: The hikers were able to reach the summit without sustaining any injuries. "Sustain injuries" is the standard phrase in English.
| Word | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| (1) getting | a general, informal verb meaning to receive or obtain ("get injured" is common, but with the noun "injuries" the precise, standard verb is sustain) | She got a letter from her pen friend. |
| (2) sustaining (answer) | to suffer or receive an injury | The driver sustained minor injuries in the crash. |
| (3) possessing | to own or have something (one does not "possess" an injury) | He possesses a rare collection of stamps. |
| (4) harboring | to keep a feeling or thought in one's mind, or to hide someone (it does not go with injuries) | He harbored a grudge against his cousin for years. |