Which of the following is a reason the phrase "highly significant" is improper to use?

A) The level of significance is a direct function of sample size.
B) Statistical significance is a dichotomy.
C) p < .01 is not necessarily 'better' than a finding at the p < .05 level.
D) all of these

All of these reasons contribute to why the phrase "highly significant" is improper to use. The level of significance is dependent on sample size, so using a phrase like "highly significant" is vague and does not accurately describe the level of significance. Additionally, statistical significance is a dichotomy, meaning that something either is or is not statistically significant, so adding additional modifiers like "highly" is unnecessary. Finally, a finding with a p-value less than .01 is not necessarily better than a finding at the p < .05 level, as this ultimately depends on the context and the specific research question being addressed.