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Difficulty: HardConjunctions and Clause Structure

________ the permanent secretary tried to defend the administrative delay during the panel inquiry, the committee found his explanation completely unsatisfactory. Which of the following options correctly completes the sentence to introduce a valid clause of concession?

  1. Much asAnswer
  2. B
    Inasmuch as
  3. C
    In spite
  4. D
    However

Answer

The phrase 'Much as' correctly completes the sentence to introduce a subordinating clause of concession.
The connective 'Much as' is a subordinating conjunction used to introduce a clause of concession (synonymous with 'although' or 'even though'). It correctly links the subordinate clause with the main clause to indicate contrast between the official's effort and the panel's rejection.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Determine the relationship between the subordinate clause and the main clause.
The subordinate clause describes an effort ('tried to defend'), whereas the main clause reports a negative outcome ('found his explanation completely unsatisfactory'), indicating a concessive relationship.
Identifying whether the sentence requires a connector of cause, condition, purpose, or concession is necessary to select the correct conjunction.
2
Evaluate the syntax and meaning of each connective option.
'Much as' introduces a finite clause with a concessive meaning equivalent to 'although'. 'Inasmuch as' denotes cause, 'In spite' lacks 'of' and cannot take a finite clause, and 'However' requires a fronted modifier.
Conjunction choice depends on both correct semantic function and grammatical clause compatibility.

Key Concept

Concessive Subordinating Conjunctions and Clause Structure
Estimated Time:1m 30s
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Topics

Conjunctions and Clause Structure

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