16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsVery hardColon versus semicolon before an elaboration

Standard English Conventions practice question

The verdict was ____ the bridge had failed because nobody had read the inspection reports.

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

  1. A. simple:Correct
  2. B. simple;
  3. C. simple,
  4. D. simple

Answer: A. simple:

The clause after 'simple' explains the verdict, which a colon introduces.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. simple;
A semicolon separates without signalling the explanation.
C. simple,
A comma splice.
D. simple
A run-on.

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