16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsVery hardNo comma between two objects of one verb

Standard English Conventions practice question

The report criticised the delay in ordering ____ the failure to inform residents.

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

  1. A. supplies andCorrect
  2. B. supplies, and
  3. C. supplies; and
  4. D. supplies. And

Answer: A. supplies and

"the delay" and "the failure" are two objects of "criticised", joined by "and" with no comma.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. supplies, and
A comma before "and" is for two complete clauses.
C. supplies; and
A semicolon needs a complete sentence after it.
D. supplies. And
"And the failure to inform residents" is a fragment.

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