Question

Read the sentence from Samuel Johnson's preface to A Dictionary of the English Language."It is the fate of those who toil at the lower employments of life, to be rather driven by the fear of evil, than attracted by the prospect of good; to be exposed to censure, without hope of praise."What is the best definition of the underlined word as it is used in the sentence?A. a statement of wit or amusementB. an expression of disapproval or condemnationC. a sentiment of indifference or apathyD. an exclamation of profound admiration or esteem

Answer 1

Answer:

B). An expression of disapproval or condemnation.

Explanation:

The 'word-choice' always play a vital role in conveying the intended meaning, message, or idea that the author wishes to convey.

In the given sentence, the best definition of the underlined word 'censure' would be 'an expression of disapproval or condemnation' as per the context of the statement. The word 'censure' implies 'reflecting strong and formal disapproval or a severe public criticism' that best fits and accomplishes the context of the sentence. Therefore, the sentence would imply that 'it's in the fate of those toiling employees who are driven more by the fear of evil instead of being fascinated towards the 'prospect of good' and exposure to 'having the ability to express their strong/severe disapproval or disagreement to this toiling labor'(censure)'. Thus, option B is the correct answer.