The mayor made her intentions clear _______ she would veto any bill that increased taxes.
2
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
clear,
B
clear;
C
clear:
D
clear—
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. This question tests colon usage to introduce an explanation.
- Context clues: A complete sentence is followed by what the "intentions" specifically were.
- Meaning: A colon can follow a complete sentence to introduce an explanation.
- Verify: "The mayor made her intentions clear: she would veto any bill" correctly explains her intentions.
💡 Strategy: Use a colon to introduce an explanation or elaboration 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, not explanation. Choice D is incorrect because while a dash works, a colon is more formal for explanations.