16Hit1600
Expression of IdeasHardReinforcing with a stronger point

Expression of Ideas practice question

The old sea wall was not merely damaged by the winter storms. ____ a forty-metre section of it had vanished entirely, its stones scattered across the beach.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

  1. A. In fact,Correct
  2. B. On the other hand,
  3. C. Otherwise,
  4. D. Similarly,

Answer: A. In fact,

'Not merely damaged' sets up an intensification: 'in fact, vanished'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. On the other hand,
The second sentence strengthens the first, not opposes it.
C. Otherwise,
No alternative condition.
D. Similarly,
Vanishing is not similar to damage; it exceeds it.

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