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 amusement
b. an expression of disapproval or condemnation
c. a sentiment of indifference or apathy
d. an exclamation of profound admiration or esteem

Answer 1

Answer:

B). An expression of disapproval or condemnation.

Explanation:

As per the question, option B best displays the definition of the underlined word 'censure' as it best fits the context of the statement. The word 'censure' denotes 'the actions of displaying acute criticism, reprehension or condemnation' which in the given context is complementing the meaning of the sentence and conveys the author's intended purpose. Therefore, the idea is to convey that 'the toiling laborers are destined to work at lower employments as they are more operated by the fear of evil instead of being disclosed to 'reflect or express their extreme disapproval or objection' or possess a hope of being admired. Therefore, option B is the correct answer.