The study's conclusion was decisive _______ regular exercise significantly reduces the risk of heart disease.
4
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
decisive,
B
decisive;
C
decisive—
D
decisive:
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests colon usage to introduce an explanation.
- Context clues: A complete sentence is followed by the actual conclusion.
- Meaning: A colon can follow a complete sentence to introduce what the conclusion IS.
- Verify: "The study's conclusion was decisive: regular exercise significantly reduces..." correctly introduces the conclusion.
💡 Strategy: Use a colon to introduce an explanation or definition after a complete sentence.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma creates a comma splice. Choice B is incorrect because a semicolon suggests parallel ideas. Choice C is incorrect because while possible, a colon is more appropriate for direct explanation.