Such orb-weaving spiders like the argiope build webs in an essentially wheel-like structure, with an outer rim and a number of spokes emanating from the hub.


(A) Such orb-weaving spiders like the argiope build webs in an essentially wheel-like structure


(B) Such orb-weaving spiders as the argiope builds webs with what is essentially a wheel-like structure


(C) The argiope spider, in the same way as other orb-weaving spiders, build webs in a structure that is essentially wheel-like


(D) Orb-weaving spiders such as the argiope build webs that are essentially wheel-like


(E) Like other orb-weaving spiders do, the argiope builds webs as essentially wheel-like


This question is based on Modifiers, Idiomatic Usage, and Construction.


The ‘argiope’ is an example of orb-weaving spiders. To convey an example, the phrase ‘such as’ is used. The phrase ‘such like’ is idiomatically inappropriate. So, Option A can be eliminated.


Option B contains the appropriate idiomatic usage. However, the structure of this option changes the intended meaning of the sentence, which is that the webs have a wheel-like structure. We can identify the intended meaning from the modifier at the end of the sentence that describes a wheel. This option conveys the meaning that the argiope builds webs using a wheel-like structure. Since the meaning is distorted, Option B can be eliminated.


Option C is wordy. Furthermore, this option also changes the meaning. The phrase “in the same way” conveys a comparison between other orb-weaving spiders and the argiope. This option also has a subject-verb disagreement. The plural verb ‘build’ does not agree with the singular subject ‘the argiope spider’. So, Option C can also be eliminated.


To compare two actions, the conjunction ‘as’ is used. The conjunction ‘like’ is used to draw a comparison between two nouns or pronouns. So, Option E can also be eliminated.


Option D contains the appropriate idiomatic phrase ‘such as’ to convey an example. The structure of this option also ensures that the modifier at the end of the sentence properly modifies the subject “webs that are essentially wheel-like”. Therefore, D is the most appropriate option.