The European Union was established in 1993 to facilitate political and economic integration across Europe. By the time the Euro currency was physically introduced in 2002, the union ______ significantly in both membership and scope.
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readingWhich choice completes the text so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A
expands
B
has expanded
C
had expanded
D
will expand
Correct Answer: C
Choice C is the best answer. The phrase "By the time..." sets up a deadline in the past (2002). The past perfect tense "had expanded" is required to show that the expansion occurred prior to that specific past moment.