The discovery had implications far beyond the laboratory _______ it could transform how we treat cancer.
6
readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
laboratory,
B
laboratory;
C
laboratory:
D
laboratory—
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests dash usage for emphatic elaboration.
- Context clues: What follows dramatically explains the implications.
- Meaning: A dash can introduce emphatic or dramatic elaboration.
- Verify: "The discovery had implications far beyond the laboratory—it could transform how we treat cancer" emphasizes the significance.
💡 Strategy: Use a dash to introduce emphatic or dramatic elaboration.
Choice A is incorrect because a comma creates a comma splice and lacks emphasis. Choice B is incorrect because while grammatically correct, it doesn't emphasize as effectively. Choice C is incorrect because while a colon works, a dash provides more drama.