16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsMediumNo comma before an essential 'that' clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

The only bridge ____ crosses the estuary was built in 1932.

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

  1. A. thatCorrect
  2. B. , that
  3. C. ; that
  4. D. , which

Answer: A. that

The clause identifies which bridge and takes no comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. , that
A comma before an essential 'that' clause is wrong.
C. ; that
A semicolon splits the subject.
D. , which
A comma with 'which' makes the clause nonessential, but 'the only bridge' needs it to identify the bridge.

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