A Dictionary of the English Language was unique at publication for its what?

• A. quotations
• B. definitions
• C. etymologies
• D. omissions

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that Johnson’s Dictionary set itself apart by using quotations to show how words were actually used. Rather than relying only on straight definitions, the dictionary includes thousands of quoted examples from literature and other sources to illustrate each sense, showing context, nuance, and how words function in real sentences. This use of authentic usage as evidence was innovative for its time and helped readers see what a word meant in practice, not just in theory. While it did provide definitions and some etymologies, the standout feature that made the work unique was this extensive use of quotations.