Question

Although the meanings of words may necessarily be liable to change, it does not follow that the lexicographer is therefore unable to render spelling, in a great measure, ----.

• A. arbitrary
• B. superfluous
• C. interesting
• D. flexible
• E. constant

Hint:

In sentences with the structure "Although A, not necessarily B," the word that fills the blank in B is often an antonym or a word with an opposing concept to a key word in A. Here, "constant" is the opposite of "change."

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
This sentence completion question is built on a contrast, indicated by the word "Although." It contrasts the nature of word meanings with the nature of spelling.
Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
1. Identify the first part of the contrast: "the meanings of words may necessarily be liable to change." This establishes that word meanings are not fixed; they are flexible.
2. The phrase "it does not follow that" signals a break in logic. Just because meanings change, it doesn't mean the same is true for spelling.
3. The blank describes what a lexicographer (a dictionary writer) can make spelling. The logic requires a word that is the opposite of "liable to change."
Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The sentence argues that the flexibility of word meaning does not necessitate the flexibility of spelling. A lexicographer can still establish a fixed standard for spelling.
- Option (E), "constant," means unchanging or fixed. This is the direct opposite of "liable to change" and fits the logic of the sentence perfectly. A lexicographer can render spelling constant (standardized).
- Options (A), "arbitrary" (based on random choice), and (D), "flexible," are similar in meaning to "liable to change." Choosing them would destroy the contrast that the sentence is built on.
- Options (B), "superfluous" (unnecessary), and (C), "interesting," are irrelevant to the contrast between change and stability.
Step 4: Final Answer:
The word "constant" correctly completes the contrast, arguing that even if meanings are fluid, spelling can be made stable and unchanging.