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Difficulty: MediumPronoun Clarity and Reference

In 1910, astronomers eagerly awaited the arrival of Halley's Comet, which was passing close to Earth. While researchers prepared telescopes to analyze the comet's composition, the general public focused on reports of toxic cyanogen gas in its tail. Although scientists tried to reassure people that the gas was far too thin to cause harm, it led to widespread panic and the hoarding of 'comet pills.'

Which choice is the best replacement for the underlined word?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. these reportsAnswer
  3. C
    they
  4. D
    which

Answer

The option stating 'these reports' is correct because it replaces the vague pronoun 'it' with a clear, specific noun phrase that identifies the source of the panic.
The correct option is the phrase 'these reports' because it resolves the vague reference of the pronoun 'it'. In the original sentence, 'it' has no clear, singular noun antecedent and instead vaguely refers to the entire concept of the reports or rumors. Replacing 'it' with the specific noun phrase 'these reports' provides grammatical clarity and a logical subject for the verb 'led'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the underlined pronoun 'it' and analyze its antecedent in the preceding clauses.
The pronoun 'it' lacks a clear, specific singular noun antecedent.
To ensure clarity, a pronoun must refer to a specific noun rather than a general idea or an entire preceding clause.
2
Test the alternative options to find one that resolves the ambiguity.
The option 'these reports' provides a specific noun phrase that fits the logical context of the sentence.
Replacing the vague pronoun with a specific noun phrase is the most effective way to restore clarity to the sentence.
3
Verify that the other distractors are grammatically or logically incorrect.
The pronoun 'they' lacks a logical plural antecedent, and the relative pronoun 'which' creates an ungrammatical fragment.
Evaluating all options confirms that the selected option is the only one that is both grammatically correct and logically sound.

Key Concept

Pronoun Clarity and Reference
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Pronoun Clarity and Reference

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