The museum displayed a _______ intricate manuscript from the medieval period.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
beautiful intricate
B
beautiful, intricate
C
beautiful; intricate
D
beautiful—intricate
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. This question tests comma usage with coordinate adjectives.
- Context clues: "Beautiful" and "intricate" both independently modify "manuscript."
- Meaning: Coordinate adjectives need a comma between them (test: can reverse or add "and").
- Verify: "A beautiful, intricate manuscript" = "A intricate, beautiful manuscript" = "A beautiful and intricate manuscript."
💡 Strategy: If adjectives can be reversed or connected by "and," they're coordinate and need a comma.
Choice A is incorrect because coordinate adjectives require a comma. Choice C is incorrect because semicolons don't separate adjectives. Choice D is incorrect because dashes don't separate adjectives.