16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsHardComma after a long introductory phrase

Standard English Conventions practice question

After nearly forty years in the same small ____ the shop finally closed its doors.

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

  1. A. premises,Correct
  2. B. premises;
  3. C. premises
  4. D. premises, and

Answer: A. premises,

A long introductory phrase is followed by a comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. premises;
A semicolon needs a complete sentence before it.
C. premises
The introductory phrase runs into the main clause.
D. premises, and
"and" cannot join a phrase to a clause.

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