Question

Read the excerpts from Samuel Johnson’s preface to A Dictionary of the English Language.

Excerpts from Samuel Johnson's preface to A Dictionary of the English Language.

Which statement best describes the use of the underlined word in the excerpts?

In excerpt 1, it refers to personal growth, while in excerpt 2, it suggests the physical act of moving.
In excerpt 1, it refers to personal growth, while in excerpt 2, it suggests scientific discoveries.
In excerpt 1, it refers to societal advancement, while in excerpt 2, it suggests the gradual march of time.
In excerpt 1, it refers to societal advancement, while in excerpt 2, it suggests steps toward a particular goal.

Answer 1

In excerpt 1 it denotes societal advancement (progress of learning/language), while in excerpt 2 it denotes steps toward a particular goal (the act of advancing/moving forward).