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Standard English ConventionsEasyComma after an introductory 'if' clause

Standard English Conventions practice question

If the river rises another ____ the lower road will be closed.

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

  1. A. metre,Correct
  2. B. metre
  3. C. metre;
  4. D. metre, then,

Answer: A. metre,

An introductory 'if' clause is followed by a comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. metre
No comma runs the clause into the main clause.
C. metre;
A semicolon can't follow a dependent clause.
D. metre, then,
'Then,' with a second comma is not needed.

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