The initial results were promising. The research team _______ encountered unexpected challenges in the second phase.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
team, however
B
team however,
C
team; however
D
team, however,
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests comma usage with "however" as a parenthetical.
- Context clues: "However" interrupts the sentence as a parenthetical element.
- Meaning: When "however" appears mid-sentence as an interrupter, set it off with commas on both sides.
- Verify: "The research team, however, encountered..." correctly brackets "however."
💡 Strategy: When "however" appears mid-sentence (not at the junction of independent clauses), use commas on both sides.
Choice A is incorrect because it lacks the closing comma. Choice B is incorrect because it lacks the opening comma. Choice C is incorrect because a semicolon is used when "however" joins two independent clauses.