Question

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

The solution of all difficulties, and the supply of all defects, must be sought in the examples, subjoined to the various senses of each word, and ranged according to the time of their authours.
When first I collected these authorities, I was desirous that every quotation should be useful to some other end than the illustration of a word; I therefore extracted from philosophers principles of science; from historians remarkable facts; from chymists complete processes; from divines striking exhortations; and from poets beautiful descriptions.

The excerpt suggests that Johnson’s work is significant because it

reflects considerable literary research.
includes colorful drawings and illustrations.
is used by authorities in many fields of study.
explains many scientific principles.

Answer 1

"reflects considerable literary research."

Reason: Johnson describes collecting many authorities and quotations from philosophers, historians, chymists, divines, and poets—evidence of extensive literary and documentary research.