Answer:
I think this means that the dead wood (useless/burdensome people or things) are the same anywhere they are. So the useless are useless not only in one situation but useless all around.
Explanation:
Example: He cut the "deadwood" from the group. So he is getting rid of the useless people in the group.
Is doubting the truthfulness of your excuse
D. while and however. is your answer
Note:
"<em>On the other hand, seagulls are scavengers, while wild geese aren't.</em>"
"<em>Seagulls will migrate far inland to search for food. However, they don't follow seasonal patterns of migration like wild geese.</em>"
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