Information and IdeasMediumMain idea correcting a popular claim
Information and Ideas practice question
It is often said that the Eskimo languages have dozens of words for snow. The claim rests on a misunderstanding of how those languages work: they build long words by stacking parts, so 'snow that has drifted' becomes a single word. Counted the same way, English has dozens of words for snow too.
Which choice best states the main idea of the text?
- A. The 'many words for snow' claim misreads the way those languages form words.Correct
- B. The Eskimo languages have no single word for snow.
- C. English has more words for snow than any other language.
- D. Snow matters more in Arctic cultures than elsewhere.
Answer: A. The 'many words for snow' claim misreads the way those languages form words.
The text names the claim, explains the word-building that produces it, and shows the same count applies to English. Its point is that the claim is a misunderstanding.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. The Eskimo languages have no single word for snow.
- The text says the languages build words by stacking parts; it doesn't say they lack a word for snow.
- C. English has more words for snow than any other language.
- The text says English has 'dozens ... too', not more than any other.
- D. Snow matters more in Arctic cultures than elsewhere.
- Culture is never discussed.
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