Dear Friends,
Here is a detailed explanation to this question-
ngobaotrung wrote:
The Iroquois were primarily planters, but supplementing their cultivation of maize, squash, and beans with fishing and hunting.
(A) but supplementing
(B) and had supplemented
(C) and even though they supplemented
(D) although they supplemented
(E) but with supplementing
Choice A: This answer choice employs the "Verb+ing" modifier, rather than the continuous verb "supplementing"; in doing so, this answer choice fails to bring out the needed contrast and implies that the Iroquois' supplementation is an ongoing process. Thus, this answer choice is incorrect.
Choice B: This answer choice incorrectly uses the past perfect tense to refer to the Iroquois' supplementation; this tense is only used when referring to the earlier of two events, and this sentence makes it clear that the Iroquois practiced farming, hunting, and fishing simultaneously. Additionally, this answer choice uses the conjunction "and", which does not convey contrast. Thus, this answer choice is incorrect.
Choice C: This answer choice incorrectly links a dependent clause to an independent clause through the conjunction "and". Thus, this answer choice is incorrect.
Choice D: This answer choice maintains proper conjunction and tense use and conveys the intended meaning of the sentence. Thus, this answer choice is correct.
Choice E: This answer choice repeats the error found in Option A. Thus, this answer choice is incorrect.
Hence, D is the best answer choice.To understand the concept of "Although, Though, Despite, and While on GMAT", you may want to watch the following video (~1 minute):
All the best!
Experts' Global Team