Let's simplify the given mathematical expression step by step to find the correct answer.
First, consider the expression:
[tex]\[ 12 - (-8) \times 4 \][/tex]
1. Identify the term inside the parentheses, which is -8.
2. Multiply this term by 4:
[tex]\[ -8 \times 4 \][/tex]
When you multiply -8 by 4, you get -32.
3. Now, substitute this product back into the original expression:
[tex]\[ 12 - (-32) \][/tex]
4. Remember that subtracting a negative number is the same as adding its positive counterpart:
[tex]\[ 12 + 32 \][/tex]
5. Finally, perform the addition:
[tex]\[ 12 + 32 = 44 \][/tex]
Therefore, the correct answer is:
[tex]\[ \boxed{44} \][/tex]
So, the correct option from the given choices is:
D. 44
