After a _______ investigation, the authorities finally made an arrest.

4
reading

Which choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?

A

six month

B

six months'

C

six-month's

D

six months

Correct Answer: B

Choice B is the best answer. This question tests apostrophe usage with plural time expressions.

  1. Context clues: The investigation lasted six months—plural time expression.
  2. Meaning: Time expressions use possessive apostrophes.
  3. Verify: "After a six months' investigation" correctly shows plural time possession.

đź’ˇ Strategy: Time expressions use possessive forms: singular = 's, plural = s'.

Choice A is incorrect because it lacks proper structure and possessive. Choice C is incorrect because the hyphenated form doesn't use an apostrophe this way. Choice D is incorrect because time expressions as modifiers need possessive apostrophes.