After a _______ delay, the construction project finally resumed with renewed vigor.
7
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
three months'
B
three month's
C
three months
D
three-months'
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests apostrophe usage with plural time expressions.
- Context clues: The delay lasted "three months"—plural possessive.
- Meaning: Time expressions use possessive apostrophes (one day's work, two weeks' vacation).
- Verify: "A three months' delay" correctly shows plural possession for a time expression.
💡 Strategy: Use possessive form for time expressions: singular = 's (day's), plural = s' (months').
Choice B is incorrect because "month's" is singular, but "three" indicates plural. Choice C is incorrect because time expressions functioning as adjectives need possessive apostrophes. Choice D is incorrect because the hyphen is unnecessary and "months'" doesn't need modification.