Select the correct alternative to fill in the blank with the correct preposition in the following sentence.
Ramanujam is competent ________ solving all types of mathematical sums.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
Competent at: When 'competent' is followed by a gerund (a verb ending in -ing, like 'solving'), the preposition at is the standard and most common choice. It indicates skill or ability in a specific activity.
Competent in: This is also grammatically correct but is more commonly used with a field of study or a general area of expertise (e.g., 'He is competent in mathematics').
Therefore, the most appropriate word that fits in the blank is ‘at’.
The complete sentence should be:
'Ramanujam is competent at solving all types of mathematical sums.'