16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsHardCommas around a nonrestrictive participial phrase

Standard English Conventions practice question

The ____ built in 1820, is the only one of its design still lit.

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

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

Answer: A. lighthouse,

'Built in 1820' is nonessential and is closed by a comma, so it opens with one.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. lighthouse
Closed but not opened.
C. lighthouse;
A semicolon can't open the phrase.
D. lighthouse:
Nor can a colon.

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