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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. 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) Irish.
(b) Danish.
(c) Scottish.
(d) Italian.

2. In what language does Mencken state the double negative was once "quite respectable?"
(a) Russian.
(b) French.
(c) Spanish.
(d) Anglo-Saxon.

3. Which double negative word is primarily found in Shakespeare?
(a) Not.
(b) Never.
(c) No.
(d) Nor.

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

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

Short Answer Questions

1. What difference in pronunciation does Mencken state most sharply distinguishes the two dialects?

2. How do the English pronounce the first syllable in "lieutenant"?

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

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

5. What purpose does the double negative primarily serve?

(see the answer key)

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