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Difficulty: EasyPronoun Clarity and Reference

During her research in the greenhouse, the botanist compared the rare orchid to the common fern. She noted that [it] grew much faster under artificial blue light. Consequently, she decided to adjust the lighting conditions for the rest of the specimens.

Which choice most clearly and precisely identifies what grew much faster?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. the orchidAnswer
  3. C
    they
  4. D
    this

Answer

the orchid
The correct option resolves the ambiguity by replacing the vague pronoun with the specific noun 'the orchid', making it clear which plant grew faster under the artificial light.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the pronoun and its potential antecedents in the passage.
The pronoun is 'it', and the potential antecedents are 'the rare orchid' and 'the common fern'.
To determine if the pronoun reference is clear or ambiguous.
2
Evaluate the clarity of the pronoun reference in the context.
Since both 'orchid' and 'fern' are singular nouns mentioned in the preceding sentence, 'it' could refer to either one, making the reference ambiguous.
To recognize the need for a specific noun that resolves the ambiguity.
3
Select the option that replaces the ambiguous pronoun with a specific noun.
The option 'the orchid' clearly specifies which plant is being described without introducing ambiguity.
To achieve clarity and precision in accordance with standard English conventions.

Key Concept

Pronoun Clarity and Reference
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Topics

Pronoun Clarity and Reference

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