Question

read the excerpts from samuel johnsons 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? excerpt 1 recognizes the importance of word origins, but excerpt 2 suggests that studying word origins could be a waste of time. excerpt 1 recognizes the importance of word origins, and excerpt 2 suggests that etymology is more important than syntax. excerpt 1 questions the study of word origins, but excerpt 2 asserts the need to include etymology in dictionaries.

Explanation:

In Excerpt 1, etymology is considered necessary when investigating orthography and signification of words. In Excerpt 2, while it acknowledges that a whole - life study of syntax and etymology isn't feasible, it doesn't imply it's a waste of time or that etymology is more important than syntax. It just points out the challenge of perfecting a dictionary due to the dynamic nature of language and the vastness of etymological study.

Answer:

Excerpt 1 recognizes the importance of word origins, but excerpt 2 suggests that studying word origins could be a waste of time.