Skip to main contentSkip to solution

The sentences given below, when properly sequenced, would yield a coherent paragraph. Decide on the proper sequencing of the order of the sentences and key in the sequence of the numbers as your answer.

  1. Johnson treated English very practically, as a living language, with many different shades of meaning and adopted his definitions on the principle of English common law according to precedent.
  2. Masking a profound inner torment, Johnson found solace in compiling the words of a language that was, in its coarse complexity and comprehensive genius, the precise analogue of his character.
  3. Samuel Johnson was a pioneer who raised common sense to heights of genius, and a man of robust popular instincts whose watchwords were clarity, precision and simplicity.
  4. The 18th century English reader, in the new world of global trade and global warfare, needed a dictionary with authoritative acts of definition of words of a language that was becoming seeded throughout the first British empire by a vigorous and practical champion.
  5. The Johnson who challenged Bishop Berkeley's solipsist theory of the nonexistence of matter by kicking a large stone ("I refute it thus") is the same Johnson for whom language must have a daily practical use.

Entered answer:

Solution

✅ Correct Answer: 43512

From passage: "The 18th century English reader, in the new world of global trade and global warfare, needed a dictionary..." and "Samuel Johnson was a pioneer who raised common sense to heights of genius..."

My thought process -> Start with context (why was dictionary needed?) -> introduce the person (who was Johnson?) -> explain his approach (how did he work?) -> conclude with motivation (why did he do it?)


Step-by-step elimination:

This creates suspense and flows naturally.

Next -> Sentence 3 reveals who this champion is (Samuel Johnson) and describes his qualities. Perfect follow-up to sentence 4.

Then -> Sentence 5 gives a concrete example of Johnson's practical approach with the stone-kicking story. This supports the "practical" theme from sentences 4 and 3.

Following -> Sentence 1 elaborates further on Johnson's practical treatment of English language. Natural continuation of the practical theme.

Finally -> Sentence 2 provides the personal conclusion about Johnson's inner motivation for the work. Good ending that explains the deeper reason.

The logical flow: Context -> Person -> Example -> Method -> Motivation

Answer: 43512

Keyboard Shortcuts

  • Left arrow: Previous question
  • Right arrow: Next question
  • S key: Jump to solution
  • Q key: Jump to question