Read the excerpts from Samuel Johnson’s preface to A Dictionary of the English Language . In the investigation both of the orthography and signification of words, their etymology was necessarily to be considered, and they were therefore to be divided into primitives and derivatives. No dictionary of a living tongue ever can be perfect, since while it is hastening to publication, some words are budding, and some falling away; that a whole life cannot be spent upon syntax and etymology , and that even a whole life would not be sufficient. Which statement best describes the use of the underlined word in the excerpts?
Answer
A
Excerpt 1 recognizes the importance of word origins, and excerpt 2 suggests that etymology is more important than syntax.
B
Excerpt 1 questions the study of word origins, but excerpt 2 asserts the need to include etymology in dictionaries.
C
Excerpt 1 questions the study of word origins, and excerpt 2 insists that etymology is best studied over the course of one’s lifetime.
D
Excerpt 1 recognizes the importance of word origins, but excerpt 2 suggests that studying word origins could be a waste of time.
Explanation
In the first excerpt, Johnson says etymology—the study of a word’s origin—must be considered when investigating spelling and meaning, so he recognizes its importance. In the second, he says a whole life could be spent on syntax and etymology and still would not be enough, emphasizing how extensive the task is. He does not claim etymology is a waste of time; choice C best captures the contrast between the excerpts.
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