16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsMediumCommas around a nonessential 'which' clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

The ____ which was cast in 1702, is the oldest object in the church.

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

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

Answer: A. bell,

'Which was cast in 1702' is nonessential and is closed by a comma, so it opens with one.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. bell
The clause is closed but not opened.
C. bell;
A semicolon can't open a 'which' clause.
D. bell:
Nor can a colon.

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