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Standard English ConventionsMediumCommas around an interrupting phrase

Standard English Conventions practice question

The ____ to everyone's surprise, arrived on time.

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

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

Answer: A. train,

'To everyone's surprise' interrupts and takes commas on both sides.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. train
The interruption is left open.
C. train;
A semicolon splits the subject.
D. train:
A colon splits the subject.

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