16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsHardNo comma between a verb and its object

Standard English Conventions practice question

After two years of debate, the committee finally ____ to widen the bridge.

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

  1. A. approved the planCorrect
  2. B. approved, the plan
  3. C. approved; the plan
  4. D. approved — the plan

Answer: A. approved the plan

Nothing separates 'approved' from its object 'the plan'.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. approved, the plan
A comma between verb and object is an error.
C. approved; the plan
A semicolon splits the verb from its object.
D. approved — the plan
A dash splits the verb from its object.

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