Question

Which of the following alternatives to the underlined portion would be the LEAST acceptable? (A) although (B) in that (c) since (D) as

Short answer

B - in that

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Meaning of Each Option

To determine which alternative is the least acceptable, first understand the meanings of all the options. 'Although' is used to introduce a contrast. 'In that' is used to specify reasons or explanations. 'Since' can indicate causation or specify time. 'As' can also indicate causation or comparison.

Evaluate the Original Sentence

Carefully read the original sentence and understand the context in which the underlined portion is used. This will help identify what type of word is most appropriate in that context.

Substitute Each Option into the Sentence

Replace the underlined portion of the sentence with each option one by one and read the sentence. Assess if the replacement maintains proper grammar and meaning.

Determine Acceptability

Identify which replacement makes the sentence awkward or changes its meaning negatively. The least acceptable option is the one that distorts the intended message or creates confusion.

Key concepts

Grammar Evaluation

Grammar evaluation involves checking the structural rules and conventions of language to ensure that sentences are clear and correct. It includes reviewing parts of speech, verb tense, punctuation, and sentence structure. In the provided exercise, understanding the correct use of each alternative ('although,' 'in that,' 'since,' 'as') is crucial. 'Although' introduces contrast, while 'in that' specifies reasons. 'Since' can denote causation or time, and 'as' can indicate causation or comparison. Ensuring these words fit grammatically into the sentence preserves the intended meaning. Incorrect grammar choices can distort the message, making it important to evaluate each option carefully.

Contextual Analysis

Contextual analysis involves examining the surrounding text to fully understand the meaning and function of a word or phrase within a sentence. In the exercise, you need to read the entire sentence to grasp how the underlined word affects the overall meaning. Is the context showing a reason, a contrast, or a comparison? This helps determine which words fit best. 'Although' is useful for showing a contrast, while 'in that' specifies a reason. 'Since' can indicate time or causation, and 'as' might compare or show causation. By analyzing the context, you can pick the word that aligns best with the sentence's intended message.

Sentence Substitution

Sentence substitution is the process of replacing part of a sentence with different words to see how it affects meaning and correctness. For the given exercise, you swap the underlined portion with the alternatives provided ('although,' 'in that,' 'since,' 'as'). Each alternative changes the sentence's meaning slightly. Try replacing each option and re-reading the sentence:

• 'Although' for contrast.
• 'In that' for explaining.
• 'Since' for causation.
• 'As' for comparison or causation.

Determine if the sentence remains grammatically correct and clear. The least acceptable option will make the sentence awkward or change its meaning negatively. This process helps identify the most fitting word and reveals any grammatical issues.