16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsEasyComma after a long introductory phrase

Standard English Conventions practice question

In the first week of the archaeological ____ the team uncovered the corner of a mosaic floor.

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

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

Answer: A. dig,

An introductory phrase is followed by a comma before the main clause.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. dig
Without the comma the opener runs into the clause.
C. dig;
A semicolon can't follow a phrase.
D. dig, and
'And' leaves the sentence without a main clause before it.

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