A compound modifier acts as a _____ unit modifying a noun.
A) compound
B) coordinate
C) plural
D) single
I answered D
The correct answer is D) single.
Compound modifiers are made up of two or more words that work together to modify a noun. They act as a single unit because they work together to give more information or provide a description about the noun.
To determine the correct answer, we can break down the options and consider their meanings:
A) Compound: A compound is a combination of two or more separate elements or substances. While compound modifiers do consist of two or more words, this option doesn't accurately describe how they function as a single unit modifying a noun.
B) Coordinate: Coordinating conjunctions are used to connect two or more items that are equally important, such as "and," "or," or "but." However, in the context of the question, compound modifiers don't function as coordinating units.
C) Plural: The plural form refers to more than one of something. While compound modifiers can modify both singular and plural nouns, they themselves are not inherently plural units.
D) Single: This is the correct answer. Compound modifiers act as a single unit because the multiple words work together to modify a noun, providing additional information or description.
Therefore, the correct answer is D) single.