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Difficulty: HardClause Boundaries and Linking

In sociolinguistic studies of bilingualism, researchers analyze how speakers transition between languages within a single conversation. For decades, early academic theories incorrectly characterized this code-switching behavior as a sign of mental fatigue or lexical deficiencies______ contemporary linguists recognize that the practice is actually a highly structured, rule-governed phenomenon requiring advanced cognitive control and linguistic competence.

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

  1. A
    , however,
  2. ; however,Answer
  3. C
    however
  4. D
    because

Answer

The semicolon followed by the conjunctive adverb 'however' and a comma
The transition links two independent clauses. A semicolon followed by a conjunctive adverb and a comma is the standard way to connect two independent clauses when expressing a relationship of contrast.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the clause boundary and determine the grammatical structure of the clauses on either side of the blank.
The text before the blank is an independent clause ('For decades... deficiencies'), and the text after the blank is also an independent clause ('contemporary... competence').
Identifying the clause types is necessary to choose the correct punctuation and linking words.
2
Analyze the logical relationship between the two independent clauses.
The first clause describes an outdated, negative view of code-switching, while the second clause presents a modern, positive view. This indicates a relationship of contrast.
The correct transition word must match the logical flow of contrast between the ideas.
3
Select the option that correctly links the two independent clauses while expressing the contrasting relationship.
A semicolon followed by the conjunctive adverb 'however' and a comma is the grammatically correct way to join these two independent clauses.
This configuration avoids run-on sentences and comma splices, conforming to Standard English conventions.

Key Concept

Clause Boundaries and Linking
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Topics

Clause Boundaries and Linking

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