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Difficulty: Very hardClause Boundaries and Linking

In studies of linguistic relativity, researchers analyze how grammatical structures shape cognitive categorization. Some languages require speakers to specify the source of their information through evidential markers, whereas others do not. In an experiment comparing Turkish and English speakers, researchers found that these grammatical differences influence memory ______ English speakers were less likely to remember the source of a witnessed event if it was not explicitly stated in conversation.

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

  1. A
    , specifically,
  2. ; specifically, Answer
  3. C
    specifically
  4. D
    , but

Answer

The option containing a semicolon followed by 'specifically' and a comma is correct because it successfully links two independent clauses with appropriate punctuation and a logical transition.
The sentence consists of two independent clauses: the first ends with 'memory' and the second begins with 'English speakers'. To link these two independent clauses, a semicolon is required before the conjunctive adverb 'specifically', which is followed by a comma. This punctuation correctly links the clauses and establishes the logical relationship of elaboration.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the clause preceding the blank.
The clause 'In an experiment comparing Turkish and English speakers, researchers found that these grammatical differences influence memory' contains a subject and a verb and is an independent clause.
To determine what punctuation or linking word is needed, the grammatical structure of the surrounding text must be identified.
2
Analyze the clause succeeding the blank.
The clause 'English speakers were less likely to remember the source of a witnessed event if it was not explicitly stated in conversation' also contains a subject and a verb and is an independent clause.
Identifying the structure of the second clause determines whether a clause boundary marker (like a semicolon or period) is required.
3
Determine the logical relationship between the two clauses.
The second clause provides a specific example of how the grammatical differences influence memory, showing a relationship of elaboration/specification rather than contrast.
This helps select the correct transitional word or conjunction.
4
Evaluate the choices for grammatical and logical correctness.
Only the semicolon followed by 'specifically' and a comma correctly joins the two independent clauses while establishing the appropriate relationship of specification.
A semicolon is needed to avoid a comma splice or run-on, and the transition 'specifically' logically connects the idea of memory influence to the experimental detail.

Key Concept

Clause Boundaries and Linking
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Topics

Clause Boundaries and Linking

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