The ancient ruins _______ hidden for centuries beneath the desert sand _______ were discovered by chance.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
, hidden for centuries beneath the desert sand,
B
hidden for centuries beneath the desert sand
C
—hidden for centuries beneath the desert sand,
D
—hidden for centuries beneath the desert sand—
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. This question tests dash usage for emphatic parenthetical information.
- Context clues: The phrase adds dramatic emphasis to the hidden location.
- Meaning: Dashes must be used in pairs for mid-sentence interruptions.
- Verify: "The ancient ruins—hidden for centuries beneath the desert sand—were discovered" adds emphasis correctly.
💡 Strategy: Use matching dashes for emphatic parenthetical information.
Choice A is incorrect because commas work but provide less emphasis. Choice B is incorrect because punctuation is needed. Choice C is incorrect because dashes must be paired.