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This quiz consists of 5 multiple choice and 5 short answer questions through Chapter 9.8 | Chapter 9.9.

Multiple Choice Questions

1. According to Mencken, the name of what game puzzles etymologists?
(a) Whist.
(b) Poker.
(c) Football.
(d) Badminton.

2. In terms of politics, an American candidate "runs" for office. What does an English candidate do?
(a) Stands.
(b) Jumps.
(c) Sits.
(d) Sprints.

3. What is the physical basis to which the nasal twang of Americans is ascribed?
(a) The dry climate.
(b) Genetic diversity.
(c) The moist climate.
(d) Colder air.

4. How do the English pronounce the first syllable in "lieutenant"?
(a) Lee-oo.
(b) Yeift.
(c) Loo.
(d) Left.

5. Which of the following groups of immigrants does Mencken claim have a profound effect on not only the American vocabulary, but also its pronunciation and idiom?
(a) Danish.
(b) Italian.
(c) Scottish.
(d) Irish.

Short Answer Questions

1. What word was "coatee" used as a diminutive for?

2. What does Sayce say that language is composed of in 1879?

3. According to Mencken, how do the English pronounce "been?"

4. What is frequently omitted in phrases indicated desire or intent, as indicated in Chapter 9.9?

5. What letter, when preceding a consonant, greatly irritated Henry James like a "morose grinding of the back teeth?"

(see the answer key)

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