16Hit1600
Expression of IdeasHardChoosing a logical transition

Expression of Ideas practice question

When the novel was first published, it was dismissed by critics and sold poorly. ____ it has since become one of the most widely assigned books in American high schools.

Which choice completes the text with the most logical transition?

  1. A. Nevertheless,Correct
  2. B. Consequently,
  3. C. For instance,
  4. D. Likewise,

Answer: A. Nevertheless,

A poor reception would lead you to expect the book to be forgotten; instead it became widely taught. The second sentence holds despite the first, so a concession transition fits: 'Nevertheless'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. Consequently,
'Consequently' would claim the book's later success was CAUSED by its poor reception. The passage presents the success as surprising in light of the reception, not produced by it.
C. For instance,
'For instance' introduces an example of the previous claim. Being widely taught is not an example of being dismissed.
D. Likewise,
'Likewise' signals that the second sentence parallels the first. The two describe opposite fortunes.

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