16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsHardComma after an introductory absolute phrase

Standard English Conventions practice question

The storm having passed ____ crew went back up on deck.

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

  1. A. passed, theCorrect
  2. B. passed the
  3. C. passed; the
  4. D. passed. The

Answer: A. passed, the

'The storm having passed' is an introductory phrase that sets the scene; a comma separates it from the main clause.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. passed the
Without the comma, 'having passed the crew' misreads as the storm passing the crew.
C. passed; the
A semicolon needs a complete clause on each side; the opening phrase isn't one.
D. passed. The
A period leaves 'The storm having passed' as a fragment.

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