_______ I want to express my sincere gratitude for your continued support throughout this project.
5
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
Dear colleagues
B
Dear colleagues,
C
Dear, colleagues,
D
Dear colleagues:
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. This question tests comma usage with direct address.
- Context clues: "Dear colleagues" is a direct address (vocative) at the beginning of a sentence.
- Meaning: Use a comma after a direct address when it introduces a sentence.
- Verify: "Dear colleagues, I want to express..." correctly sets off the direct address.
💡 Strategy: Always use a comma after a direct address (vocative) that begins a sentence.
Choice A is incorrect because it lacks the required comma. Choice C is incorrect because the comma between "Dear" and "colleagues" incorrectly splits the phrase. Choice D is incorrect because while colons can follow salutations in formal letters, a comma is preferred here.