Craft and StructureVery hardTwo views on a dictionary's method
Craft and Structure practice question
Text 1
The new dictionary records how people actually use words, so it lists 'literally' as meaning 'figuratively'. A dictionary that records every error stops being a guide.
Text 2
A dictionary is a record, not a guide; its job is to say what a word means to the people who use it. If most speakers use 'literally' for emphasis, then that is one of its meanings, whatever a purist would prefer.
Which choice best describes the relationship between the texts?
- A. The texts disagree about whether a dictionary should describe usage or prescribe it.Correct
- B. Both texts agree that the new dictionary is wrong.
- C. Text 2 argues that 'literally' has only one meaning.
- D. Text 1 praises the dictionary's method.
Answer: A. The texts disagree about whether a dictionary should describe usage or prescribe it.
Guide against record.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. Both texts agree that the new dictionary is wrong.
- Text 2 defends it.
- C. Text 2 argues that 'literally' has only one meaning.
- Text 2 accepts the new meaning.
- D. Text 1 praises the dictionary's method.
- Text 1 objects.
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