Question

Choose the best word or phrase to complete the sentence.
Can you hear what Smita is _______?
A. Speaking
B. Saying
C. Telling
D. Talking

Answer 1

Hint: The given words in the options speaking, saying, telling, talking are all verbal expressions. The difference between them lies in the fact of its usage for different purposes. In the given sentence, the question is “Can you hear”, observe which form of verbal expression fits most precisely here.

Complete step by step answer:
Let us analyse each option individually to know the correct answer.

Speaking: The word ‘speaking’ means talking in general without any specific details. We speak ‘to’ someone or speak ‘with’ someone.
Example : I can speak French.
By implying this option, the sentence becomes “Can you hear, what Smita is speaking?”, this option doesn’t fit appropriately in the sentence. Therefore, this is an incorrect option.
Saying: The word ‘saying’ is used to express verbally. We use this word generally when we are giving instructions or giving an opinion or advice.
Example: Do as I say ! Example: What do you say ?
By implying this option, the sentence becomes “Can you hear what Smita is saying ?”, this option fits appropriately in the sentence. Therefore, this is the correct option.
Telling: The word ‘telling’ is used when we are conveying something or giving some information about something. Example: Tell me something about yourself. By implying this option, the sentence becomes “Can you hear what Smita is telling?”, this option doesn’t fit appropriately in the sentence. Therefore, this is an incorrect option.
Talking: The word ‘talking’ means a conversation between two people. Example: I was talking on the phone. By implying this option, the sentence becomes “Can you hear, what Smita is talking ?”, this option doesn’t fit appropriately in the sentence. Therefore, this is an incorrect option.

So, the correct answer is “Option B”.

Note:
All the four forms are verbal expressions with minute differences. The words speaking and saying don't necessarily need another person to engage whereas when we ‘tell’ or ‘talk’ , we need a second person to engage. Also, the word speak is used to emphasise importance or more formally. Example: He will speak in the conference. Whereas the word ‘talk’ generally refers to informal chats or conversations. Example: Talking with friends.