16Hit1600
Standard English ConventionsEasy–MediumComma after a long introductory phrase

Standard English Conventions practice question

In the final minutes of the second half ____ home side scored twice.

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

  1. A. half, theCorrect
  2. B. half the
  3. C. half; the
  4. D. half. The

Answer: A. half, the

'In the final minutes of the second half' is a long introductory phrase. A comma separates it from the main clause.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. half the
Without the comma, the reader runs 'the second half the home side' together.
C. half; the
A semicolon needs a complete clause on each side; the opening phrase has no subject or verb.
D. half. The
A period leaves the opening phrase as a fragment.

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