Question

read the sentence from an argumentative essay about wearing helmets while riding a bike.

always wear a helmet when riding a bike because riding without one is stupid.

which revision exhibits the best word choice for the underlined portion of the sentence?

• riding without one is dangerous and reckless.
• riding without one is insane and regrettable.
• riding without one is an uninformed choice.
• riding without one is not right for you.

Explanation:

The original underlined phrase uses a subjective, ad hominem term ("stupid") which is inappropriate for an argumentative essay. Strong academic/argumentative writing relies on objective, evidence-based language.

• "Insane and regrettable" is overly dramatic and subjective.
• "An uninformed choice" is too narrow; not wearing a helmet can be intentional, not just uninformed.
• "Not right for you" is vague and personal, not persuasive.
• "Dangerous and reckless" is objective, focuses on the action's actual risks, and fits the formal, logical tone of an argumentative essay.

Answer:

riding without one is dangerous and reckless.