16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsHardClosing a clause about climbers

Standard English Conventions practice question

The climbers, who had set out before ____ reached the ridge by noon.

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

  1. A. dawn,Correct
  2. B. dawn
  3. C. dawn;
  4. D. dawn, and

Answer: A. dawn,

The who-clause opened with a comma must close with one.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. dawn
The closing comma is missing.
C. dawn;
A semicolon splits the subject from its verb.
D. dawn, and
The conjunction leaves the subject without a verb.

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