Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

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Prepare for the AP English Literature exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your test!

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What does the term "antecedent" refer to in relation to pronouns?

The reason behind a character's actions
The word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun
The emotional tone of a piece of writing
The main idea in a paragraph

The correct answer is: The word, phrase, or clause referred to by a pronoun

The term "antecedent" refers specifically to the word, phrase, or clause that a pronoun replaces or refers to in a sentence. This relationship is critical in understanding the structure and clarity of sentences. For example, in the sentence "Lucy lost her book," the word “her” is a pronoun that refers back to "Lucy," making "Lucy" the antecedent. Recognizing the antecedent helps readers understand which noun a pronoun is replacing, ensuring clear communication in writing. This understanding is essential for parsing complex sentences and maintaining coherence in narrative and descriptive language.