16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsHardNo punctuation before an essential 'that' clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

The guide explained ____ that the tower had been struck by lightning twice.

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

  1. A. to the visitorsCorrect
  2. B. to the visitors,
  3. C. to the visitors;
  4. D. to the visitors:

Answer: A. to the visitors

Nothing separates the verb phrase from its 'that' clause.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. to the visitors,
A comma breaks the verb from its object.
C. to the visitors;
A semicolon breaks the verb from its object.
D. to the visitors:
A colon breaks the verb from its object.

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