Question

........was a dominant influence on Middle English. (Choose the correct option)

• A. Latin
• B. Sanskrit
• C. Scandinavian
• D. Greek

Hint:

Latin words entered English mainly through religion, law, and education, leaving a permanent mark on English grammar and lexicon.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding Middle English.
The Middle English period (1150–1500 AD) was marked by great linguistic transformation, especially due to the Norman Conquest (1066 AD).
Step 2: Influence of Latin.
Latin played a dominant role in enriching the English vocabulary. The church, legal institutions, and education systems of the time used Latin extensively. Consequently, many Latin words were incorporated into English.
Step 3: Supporting examples.
Words such as “annual,” “justice,” “mansion,” and “virtue” are of Latin origin. The educated classes and the clergy, who communicated in Latin, helped these terms enter common English usage.
Step 4: Analyzing the options.
- (a) Latin: Correct — major source of vocabulary during the Middle English period.
- (b) Sanskrit: Had no direct influence on English.
- (c) Scandinavian: Influenced Old English, not Middle English primarily.
- (d) Greek: Indirect influence, mainly through Latin.
Step 5: Conclusion.
Thus, Latin was the dominant influence on Middle English vocabulary and structure.