Question #N1209
The sentence "The author’s use of the word ‘love’ is significant, it is used to show the characters’ affection for their hometown." needs to be revised to conform to the conventions of Standard English.
Which choice best revises the sentence so that it conforms to the conventions of Standard English?
A. The author’s use of the word ‘love’ is significant; it is used to show the characters’ affection for their hometown.
B. The author’s use of the word ‘love’ is significant, because it is used to show the characters’ affection for their hometown.
C. The author’s use of the word ‘love’ is significant and it is used to show the characters’ affection for their hometown.
D. The author’s use of the word ‘love’ is significant, being used to show the characters’ affection for their hometown.
Correct Answer is: B
The original sentence incorrectly uses a comma to separate two independent clauses. This error is called a comma splice. The correct way to separate the two clauses is with a semicolon or a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction. Choice B is the only choice that correctly separates the two clauses with a comma followed by a coordinating conjunction.