16Hit1600
Information and IdeasHardInference from two dictionary editions

Information and Ideas practice question

A dictionary published in 1850 lists the word "telegraph" but not "telephone"; its 1880 edition lists both. This suggests that ____

Which choice most logically completes the text?

  1. A. the telephone came into common use between 1850 and 1880.Correct
  2. B. the telegraph fell out of use by 1880.
  3. C. the 1850 edition contained no words for machines.
  4. D. the dictionary's editors disliked telephones.

Answer: A. the telephone came into common use between 1850 and 1880.

Absent in 1850, present in 1880.

Why the other answers are wrong

B. the telegraph fell out of use by 1880.
The 1880 edition still lists it.
C. the 1850 edition contained no words for machines.
It listed "telegraph".
D. the dictionary's editors disliked telephones.
Nothing suggests a preference.

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