Examkin

Question

Difficulty: MediumSemicolons

The marine biologist discovered a new species of bioluminescent jellyfish, indeed, its glow was visible even in the murkiest depths of the ocean.

Which of the following choices best replaces the underlined portion?

  1. A
    NO CHANGE
  2. jellyfish; indeed, itsAnswer
  3. C
    jellyfish; indeed, because its
  4. D
    jellyfish indeed, its

Answer

jellyfish; indeed, its
The correct option correctly uses a semicolon to separate the two independent clauses and places a comma after the conjunctive adverb. This resolves the comma splice while maintaining the intended flow and relationship between the two complete thoughts.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the clause structures on both sides of the underlined transition.
The first part, 'The marine biologist discovered a new species of bioluminescent jellyfish,' is an independent clause. The second part, 'its glow was visible even in the murkiest depths of the ocean,' is also an independent clause.
To determine correct punctuation, we must know if the clauses being joined are independent or dependent.
2
Select the correct punctuation for joining two independent clauses with a conjunctive adverb.
Two independent clauses linked by a conjunctive adverb like 'indeed' must be separated by a semicolon before the adverb and a comma after it.
Using only a comma creates a grammatical error known as a comma splice, while omitting the semicolon creates a run-on.

Key Concept

Semicolons are used to link two independent clauses, particularly when the second clause begins with a conjunctive adverb or transition word followed by a comma.
Estimated Time:45s
Rate this question

Topics

Semicolons

More questions from this topic