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Question

Difficulty: MediumClause Boundaries and Linking

In linguistics, researchers studying phonological development in infants have observed a remarkably consistent global pattern of sound acquisition. Across diverse geographic regions, infants initially babble using a shared set of basic vocalizations ______ distinct phonetic characteristics of their community's native language only begin to shape their speech patterns around the age of six months.

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

  1. , butAnswer
  2. B
    but
  3. C
    , however,
  4. D
    because

Answer

The correct choice is the option containing ', but', which uses a comma and a coordinating conjunction to properly link the two independent clauses.
The correct option correctly uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction 'but' to link two independent clauses that express contrasting ideas. The first clause ('Across diverse geographic regions, infants initially babble using a shared set of basic vocalizations') is independent, and the second clause ('distinct phonetic characteristics of their community's native language only begin to shape their speech patterns around the age of six months') is also independent. Standard grammar requires a comma and a coordinating conjunction (like 'but') to join them when expressing contrast.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the clause structure before and after the blank.
The clause before the blank is 'Across diverse geographic regions, infants initially babble using a shared set of basic vocalizations' (independent clause). The clause after the blank is 'distinct phonetic characteristics of their community's native language only begin to shape their speech patterns around the age of six months' (independent clause).
Identifying whether the clauses are independent or dependent is necessary to determine the correct punctuation and conjunctions needed to link them.
2
Determine the logical relationship between the two independent clauses.
The first clause describes a universal, shared behavior in infants, while the second clause describes how language-specific differences emerge later. This indicates a relationship of contrast.
Understanding the logical connection helps select the appropriate coordinating conjunction or transition word.
3
Evaluate the choices to find the one that correctly links independent clauses with a contrasting relationship.
The option containing ', but' correctly uses a comma and the coordinating conjunction 'but' to signal contrast. Other options either create run-on sentences, comma splices, or establish an illogical cause-and-effect relationship.
Applying grammatical rules ensures the sentence conforms to Standard English conventions.

Key Concept

Joining two independent clauses using a comma and a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS) to express contrast.
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Topics

Clause Boundaries and Linking

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