16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsMediumComma after an introductory clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

When the tide goes ____ the causeway to the island appears.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

  1. A. out,Correct
  2. B. out;
  3. C. out
  4. D. out—

Answer: A. out,

An introductory dependent clause is followed by a comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. out;
A semicolon needs an independent clause before it.
C. out
No boundary after the introductory clause.
D. out—
A dash is not used to close an introductory clause.

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