Select the most appropriate option to substitute the highlighted segment in the given sentence. If there is no need to substitute it, select ‘No substitution required’.
The committee worked up the matter for two hours but could not reach any consensus.

Correct option is B

Option (b) "talked over" is the correct answer.
· The phrase "worked up" is incorrect in this context. "Worked up" typically means becoming emotionally agitated or excited, which doesn't fit the context of discussing a matter. The correct phrase should be "talked over," which means to discuss something thoroughly.
· Grammatical rule used: Phrasal verbs are often idiomatic, and the correct choice depends on the context in which they are used. "Talked over" is appropriate for describing a discussion or deliberation.
· Example:
· "We talked over the proposal before making a decision."
Thus, the correct sentence should read: "The committee talked over the matter for two hours but could not reach any consensus."