Replace the words in the bracket from the set of options given.
The employee was looking forward to (hear) from the boss.

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The phrase 'looking forward to' is a set expression in English.
In this phrase, the word 'to' functions as a preposition, not as part of an infinitive verb.
A preposition must be followed by a noun or a gerund (the -ing form of a verb).
Therefore, the base verb 'hear' must be changed to its gerund form, 'hearing'.

Option A: 'Heard' is the simple past or past participle form of the verb. A past tense verb form cannot follow a preposition like 'to' in this context.
Option B: 'Will be hearing' is the future continuous tense. This tense describes an ongoing action in the future and does not fit the grammatical structure following the preposition 'to'.
Option C: 'Have heard' is the present perfect tense, used to describe past actions with relevance to the present. It is not a gerund and cannot follow the preposition 'to'.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Use of gerunds after specific phrasal verbs and prepositions as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
While this is a grammar question, strong written communication is essential for nurses.
Correct grammar in patient records, reports, and professional emails ensures clarity and professionalism.
Miscommunication due to grammatical errors can lead to misunderstandings in a clinical setting.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the sentence, which is 'looking forward to'.
Recall the specific grammatical rule associated with this phrase.
Recognize that 'to' in 'looking forward to' is a preposition, not part of an infinitive.
Remember that prepositions are followed by nouns or gerunds (-ing verb forms).
Evaluate the options to find the gerund form of the verb 'hear'.
Select 'hearing' as it is the only option that correctly follows the rule.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.