16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsEasy–MediumColon introducing a quotation-like explanation

Standard English Conventions practice question

The miller's rule was ____ never leave the sluice open overnight.

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

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

Answer: A. simple:

A complete clause followed by the rule itself takes a colon.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. simple,
A comma can't introduce the explanation.
C. simple;
A semicolon needs an independent clause after it.
D. simple
Nothing separates the clause from the rule.

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