The committee reached a unanimous decision _______ all fifteen members voted in favor of the proposal.
1
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
decision, all
B
decision; all
C
decision: all
D
decision—all
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests dash usage to introduce clarifying information.
- Context clues: The second part explains what "unanimous" means specifically.
- Meaning: A dash can introduce dramatic clarification.
- Verify: "The committee reached a unanimous decision—all fifteen members voted in favor" effectively clarifies.
💡 Strategy: Use a dash to introduce clarifying or emphatic information that explains the preceding statement.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma creates a comma splice. Choice B is incorrect because a semicolon doesn't suggest the clarifying relationship. Choice C is incorrect because while a colon works, a dash provides more emphasis here.