The _______ decision to merge will significantly impact both companies' stock values.
10
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
board of directors'
B
board of director's
C
board's of directors
D
boards of directors'
Correct Answer: A
Choice A is the best answer. This question tests apostrophe placement with compound nouns.
- Context clues: The board (as a complete entity) made the decision.
- Meaning: For compound nouns, add the possessive to the last word.
- Verify: "The board of directors' decision" correctly shows possession by the compound noun.
💡 Strategy: For compound nouns, add the possessive apostrophe to the final word of the compound.
Choice B is incorrect because "director's" makes only the last word singular possessive incorrectly. Choice C is incorrect because the apostrophe is placed on the wrong word. Choice D is incorrect because "boards" incorrectly pluralizes the compound structure.