Meaning: 'However' is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or seems to contradict something that has been said previously.

Wrong options:

• therefore: 'Therefore' is a conjunctive adverb that indicates a conclusion or result, which does not fit the contrasting context here.
• in common: 'In common' is a phrase that indicates similarity, which does not provide the necessary contrast to the previous statement.
• But: 'But' is a coordinating conjunction that also indicates contrast, but it is less formal than 'however' and does not fit the tone of the passage as well.
• So: 'So' is a conjunction that indicates a consequence, which does not align with the contrasting nature of the statement.
• different: 'Different' is an adjective that describes dissimilarity, but it does not function as a conjunction and does not fit grammatically in this context.
• along with: 'Along with' is a phrase that indicates addition, which does not provide the contrast needed in this sentence.

Correct answer: in common

Explanation: The phrase 'in common' indicates a shared characteristic among the forms of art being discussed. It fits grammatically as it completes the thought about the similarities between different art forms, maintaining coherence in the context.

Meaning: 'In common' refers to something that is shared or has similarities among different items or concepts.

Wrong options:

• however: 'However' is a contrasting conjunction and does not fit in this context where a shared characteristic is being described.
• therefore: 'Therefore' indicates a conclusion or result, which does not align with the idea of shared characteristics.
• But: 'But' is a conjunction used for contrast, which does not fit the context of discussing similarities.
• So: 'So' indicates a consequence, which does not relate to the idea of commonality among the art forms.
• different: 'Different' is an adjective that indicates dissimilarity, which contradicts the idea of having something in common.
• along with: 'Along with' suggests addition rather than similarity, making it unsuitable for this context.

Correct answer: along with

Explanation: The phrase 'along with' is used to indicate that photographic lenses are included in the discussion of conventions of western art. It fits grammatically and contextually, as it connects two related ideas about transforming dimensions in art.

Meaning: 'Along with' means in addition to or together with, indicating that both photographic lenses and conventions of western art are relevant to the discussion.

Wrong options:

• however: 'However' is a contrasting conjunction that does not fit in this context where addition is being discussed.
• therefore: 'Therefore' indicates a conclusion, which does not align with the idea of inclusion in this context.
• in common: 'In common' refers to shared characteristics, which does not fit the grammatical structure needed here.
• But: 'But' is a conjunction used for contrast, which does not fit the context of addition.
• different: 'Different' is an adjective that indicates dissimilarity, which does not fit the context of inclusion.
• So: 'So' indicates a consequence, which does not relate to the idea of including photographic lenses.

Correct answer: But

Explanation: The word 'But' serves as a coordinating conjunction that introduces a contrasting statement about Japanese traditions. It fits grammatically and contextually, indicating a shift in the discussion from western conventions to Japanese approaches.

Meaning: 'But' is used to introduce a statement that contrasts with or contradicts what has been previously stated.

Wrong options:

• however: 'However' is a more formal contrasting conjunction, but 'But' is more direct and fits the conversational tone of the passage better.
• therefore: 'Therefore' indicates a conclusion, which does not align with the contrasting nature of the statement about Japanese traditions.
• in common: 'In common' does not function as a conjunction and does not fit the context of introducing a contrast.
• So: 'So' indicates a consequence, which does not fit the context of contrasting Japanese traditions with western conventions.
• different: 'Different' is an adjective that describes dissimilarity, but it does not function as a conjunction in this context.
• along with: 'Along with' indicates addition, which does not provide the necessary contrast in this sentence.