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Difficulty: EasyClause Boundaries and Linking

For decades, researchers in cognitive neuroscience have investigated mirror neurons, which are specialized brain cells that fire both when an action is performed and when it is observed. Many scientists hypothesize that this neural mirroring is essential for empathy ______ argue that its primary function is simply to facilitate motor learning and imitation.

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

  1. ; othersAnswer
  2. B
    , others
  3. C
    others
  4. D
    since others

Answer

The option containing '; others' is correct because it properly uses a semicolon to separate two independent clauses.
The correct option properly uses a semicolon to link the two independent clauses: 'Many scientists hypothesize that this neural mirroring is essential for empathy' and 'others argue that its primary function is simply to facilitate motor learning and imitation.' Because no coordinating conjunction is used, a semicolon is the standard way to separate these two complete thoughts.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the clauses surrounding the blank.
The first clause is 'Many scientists hypothesize that this neural mirroring is essential for empathy' and the second is 'others argue that its primary function is simply to facilitate motor learning and imitation.' Both are independent clauses because they can stand alone as complete sentences.
Determining clause type is necessary to apply the correct punctuation rule.
2
Evaluate how the clauses should be joined.
Two independent clauses must be joined by a period, a semicolon, a colon, or a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction (FANBOYS).
This rules out options that introduce comma splices or run-on sentences.
3
Test the options against grammar and logic rules.
The option with a semicolon successfully links the two clauses. The option with a comma creates a comma splice. The option with no punctuation creates a run-on. The option with a subordinating conjunction creates an illogical causal relationship between contrasting statements.
Selecting the correct grammatical and logical connector ensures standard English conventions are met.

Key Concept

Clause Boundaries and Linking
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Clause Boundaries and Linking

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