The investigation revealed that the _________ cost of the project was significantly higher than the initial budget.

4
writing

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

A

total

B

total and entire

C

entire

D

whole

Correct Answer: A

Choice A is the best answer. "Total" encompasses the whole amount.

Choice B is incorrect because "entire" means the same as "total." Choice C is incorrect because while "entire" is synonymous, "total" is the standard term for costs. Choice D is incorrect because "whole" is less precise for costs than "total."