Basic conjunction practice

• The team was determined to win, ... their opponents were equally motivated.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'but' because it contrasts the team's determination to win with the fact that their opponents were equally motivated, indicating a conflict between the two sides' motivations.

• She had meticulously prepared for the interview, ... she felt confident walking into the room.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'so' because it indicates a cause-and-effect relationship. Her meticulous preparation led to her confidence, making 'so' the appropriate conjunction to connect these ideas.

• The project was running behind schedule, ... we had to work overtime to meet the deadline.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'so' because it indicates a cause-and-effect relationship. The project was behind schedule, so working overtime was necessary to meet the deadline.

• He was hesitant to speak up, ... he feared it might cause unnecessary tension.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'because' as it explains the reason for his hesitation. He feared that speaking up might lead to unnecessary tension, indicating a cause-and-effect relationship.

• The restaurant had a stunning view of the city, ... the food was quite underwhelming.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'but' because it contrasts the stunning view with the underwhelming food, indicating a shift from a positive to a negative aspect. 'And' would imply both are positive, while 'so' and 'because' do not fit the context.

• The train was delayed ... of a technical malfunction on the tracks.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'because' as it indicates the reason for the train delay, which is due to a technical malfunction on the tracks. The other options do not appropriately convey this causal relationship.

• I appreciate your efforts, ... they did not fully meet the requirements of the task.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'but' because it contrasts the appreciation of efforts with the fact that they did not fully meet the requirements, indicating a limitation despite the positive acknowledgment.

• She had a lot of experience in managing international projects, ... she was quickly promoted to a senior role.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'so' because it indicates a cause-and-effect relationship. Her extensive experience in managing international projects led to her quick promotion to a senior role.

• The students were excited about the upcoming field trip, ... they were disappointed when it was canceled at the last minute.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'but' because it contrasts the students' excitement about the field trip with their disappointment over its cancellation, indicating a shift in emotion.

• The company expanded rapidly over the last few years, ... of the CEO's strategic vision and leadership.

• and

• but

• so

• because

Answer explanation

The correct choice is 'because' as it indicates the reason for the company's rapid expansion, which is attributed to the CEO's strategic vision and leadership.