Spreading rumours is an anti-social activity. The underlined is a/an :

Question

Accepted Answer

The underlined phrase "Spreading rumours" is correctly identified as a gerund, which is why Option 3 is the correct answer. Here's a detailed explanation:

1. **Explanation for Option 3 (Gerund):**
   - A gerund is a verb form that ends in "-ing" and functions as a noun in a sentence. In the given sentence, "Spreading rumours" acts as the subject of the sentence, which is a typical role for a noun. The phrase describes an activity, specifically the act of spreading rumours, and serves as the subject of the verb "is." This usage is characteristic of a gerund, confirming that Option 3 is the correct choice.

2. **Explanation for why the other options are incorrect:**

- **Option 1 (Participle):**
     - A participle is a verb form that can function as an adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun. Participles can be present (ending in "-ing") or past (usually ending in "-ed" or irregular forms). In this sentence, "Spreading" is not used to describe or modify a noun; instead, it functions as a noun itself. Therefore, it is not a participle.

- **Option 2 (Infinitive):**
     - An infinitive is the base form of a verb, often preceded by "to" (e.g., "to spread"). Infinitives can function as nouns, adjectives, or adverbs. In this sentence, there is no "to" form, and the phrase "Spreading rumours" does not fit the structure or function of an infinitive. Thus, it is not an infinitive.

- **Option 4 (None of these):**
     - Since "Spreading rumours" is accurately identified as a gerund, Option 4 is incorrect. The phrase does not fall outside the categories provided in the options, as it clearly fits the definition of a gerund.

In conclusion, the underlined phrase "Spreading rumours" is a gerund because it functions as a noun in the sentence, serving as the subject. This justifies why Option 3 is the correct answer.