Question:

The five sentences (labelled 1,2,3,4, and 5) given in this question, when properly sequenced, form a coherent paragraph. Decide on the proper order for the sentence and key in this sequence of five 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.

Updated On: Jul 30, 2025
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The Correct Option is A

Solution and Explanation

Step-by-Step Reasoning

  1. Sentence 4: Introduces the 18th‑century English reader’s need for a dictionary in a globalized world, hinting at the dictionary’s authoritative role — a natural starting point.
  2. Sentence 3: Presents Samuel Johnson as a pioneer of common sense and clarity, directly addressing the needs outlined in sentence 4.
  3. Sentence 5: Offers an anecdote about Johnson, linking his practical tendencies to the practical use of language, reinforcing his character traits mentioned in sentence 3.
  4. Sentence 1: Describes how Johnson defined English, continuing the theme from sentence 5 and reaffirming his practical approach to language.
  5. Sentence 2: Concludes by noting that Johnson found solace in compiling words, tying back to his deep engagement with the English language described earlier.

Final Sequence:

\[ \boxed{4 \ \rightarrow\ 3 \ \rightarrow\ 5 \ \rightarrow\ 1 \ \rightarrow\ 2} \]

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