16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsHardNo comma before a restrictive 'that' clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

The only bridge ____ can carry the weight of the harvester is the concrete one downstream.

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. ; that

Answer: A. that

'That can carry the weight of the harvester' is essential — it tells us which bridge — so no commas.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. that,
A comma after 'that' cuts the clause from its verb.
C. , that
A comma before 'that' treats an essential clause as nonessential.
D. ; that
A semicolon can't introduce a relative clause.

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