Question 20

The best version of the underlined portion is as it is now.

The current phrasing of the underlined portion effectively communicates the intended information without any grammatical errors or unnecessary punctuation.

A) (as it is now)

This option is correct because it maintains proper punctuation and clarity. The use of a single comma before 'banana' is appropriate as it introduces the term being defined, and the sentence flows smoothly.

B) word, 'banana,' comes from the Arabic word for 'finger.'

This option is incorrect due to the placement of the commas. The additional comma after 'banana' is unnecessary and disrupts the flow of the sentence. The original phrasing is more concise and clearer.

C) word, 'banana' comes from the Arabic word for, 'finger.'

This option is also incorrect because of the misplaced comma before 'finger.' This comma is not needed, as it separates the prepositional phrase from its object unnecessarily, making the sentence awkward.

D) word, 'banana,' comes from the Arabic word for 'finger'

While this option is similar to the original, it is incorrect because it lacks the period at the end of the sentence. Proper punctuation is essential for completing a declarative statement.

Conclusion

The original phrasing is the most effective, as it maintains clarity and proper punctuation, making it the best choice. All other options introduce unnecessary punctuation or errors that detract from the sentence's readability and correctness.