The use of key words to encapsulate prior information and set up what follows is called what?

• A. Nominalization
• B. Appraisal language
• C. Vague language
• D. Ellipsis

Answer: (A)

Nominalization is turning actions or states described by verbs into nouns, creating a noun phrase that bundles prior information and links to what comes next. For example, in a phrase like “the decision to implement the plan,” the action of deciding is captured by the noun “decision.” This noun encapsulates the earlier information (the decision) and sets up the following content about implementing the plan. That fusion of background meaning into a noun and the way it leads into the next part of the sentence is precisely what the question is describing.

The other options don’t fit this function. Appraisal language expresses judgments or attitudes; vague language uses imprecise terms; ellipsis omits parts of a clause.