Harry hates … in suspense

Analyze the question: The sentence is "Harry hates __ in suspense." We need the correct form of the verb after "hates."

Concept: The verb hate is followed by either a gerund (-ing form) or an infinitive (to + verb). Here, there is no "to," so we need a gerund. The meaning also matters: Harry doesn't like being put in suspense by someone else, so the sentence needs a passive form. The passive gerund is being + past participle, as in being kept.

Step-by-step solution:

1. After "hates," we need a gerund. This rules out A (been kept), which is a past participle form, and D (have been kept), which is a finite perfect form.
2. B (keeping) is a gerund, but it is active. "Harry hates keeping in suspense" would need an object, such as "keeping people in suspense." As written, it leaves the sentence incomplete or changes the meaning.
3. C (being kept) is the passive gerund. "Harry hates being kept in suspense" means Harry dislikes it when others keep him waiting in uncertainty. This is grammatically correct and makes sense.

Correct answer: C. being kept

Exam tip: After verbs of liking and disliking (hate, love, enjoy, dislike), look for the -ing form. If the subject receives the action, use the passive gerund being + past participle. For example: "She loves being praised," "He hates being laughed at."