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Difficulty: EasyConjunctions and Clause Structure

In the sentence, 'She refused to give up on her research work, ________ she faced numerous financial setbacks and criticism from her peers,' which of the following conjunctions correctly completes the subordinate clause of concession?

  1. althoughAnswer
  2. B
    despite
  3. C
    because
  4. D
    however

Answer

The subordinating conjunction 'although' correctly completes the sentence by introducing an adverbial clause of concession.
The subordinating conjunction 'although' is correct because it appropriately connects a finite subordinate clause expressing concession to the main clause.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the logical relationship between the main clause and the subordinate clause.
The main clause ('She refused to give up...') and the subordinate clause ('she faced numerous financial setbacks...') express contrasting or concessive ideas.
Identifying the clause relationship determines the semantic category of conjunction required.
2
Examine the grammatical structure of the subordinate clause.
The blank precedes a complete finite clause containing both a subject ('she') and a main verb ('faced').
A subordinating conjunction is required to join a finite clause, whereas prepositions require a noun phrase or gerund.
3
Select the option that satisfies both structural and semantic requirements.
The word 'although' serves as a subordinating conjunction of concession, joining the finite clause smoothly to the main clause.
It fulfils both grammatical syntax and concessive meaning.

Key Concept

Conjunctions introducing adverbial clauses of concession
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Topics

Conjunctions and Clause Structure

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