He is indebted _ his friend _ a large sum.

Appeared in: UPUMS Nsg.Officer-2024

Explanation

The adjective 'indebted' requires the preposition 'to' when followed by the person or entity to whom a debt is owed.
It requires the preposition 'for' when followed by the thing, amount, or reason for the debt.
In the sentence, 'his friend' is the person (requiring 'to'), and 'a large sum' is the amount (requiring 'for').
Therefore, the correct sequence of prepositions is 'to, for'.

Option A: This option incorrectly reverses the standard prepositional use. We are indebted 'to' a person and 'for' a thing, not the other way around.
Option B: The preposition 'by' is not idiomatically correct with 'indebted' in this context. 'Indebted by' does not mean owing something to someone.
Option C: Using 'to' for both blanks is incorrect. While 'indebted to his friend' is correct, 'indebted to a large sum' is not. The preposition 'for' must be used to indicate the amount or reason.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Correct usage of prepositions with the adjective 'indebted' as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a general English question, precision in language is critical in nursing. Clear and accurate communication in patient notes, handovers, and instructions prevents misunderstandings and medical errors.
Proper grammar ensures that documentation is professional, unambiguous, and legally sound.
What if? If a nurse wrote 'The patient is indebted by the family for care,' it would be confusing. The correct phrasing, 'The patient feels indebted to the family for their care,' conveys the meaning clearly and professionally.

How to Approach the Question

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full UPUMS Nsg.Officer-2024

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