The new regulations _______ according to industry experts _______ may significantly impact small businesses.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
according to industry experts
B
, according to industry experts,
C
; according to industry experts;
D
—according to industry experts
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. This question tests comma usage with attributive phrases.
- Context clues: "According to industry experts" is an interrupter providing attribution.
- Meaning: Interrupters are set off by commas on both sides.
- Verify: "The new regulations, according to industry experts, may significantly impact..." correctly brackets the attribution.
💡 Strategy: Set off attributive phrases like "according to X" with commas on both sides.
Choice A is incorrect because it lacks commas. Choice C is incorrect because semicolons don't set off attributive phrases. Choice D is incorrect because a single dash creates asymmetry.