English History - Preparation For Exam
Questions and Answers
- 1.
Words dinner and supper are French.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that the words "dinner" and "supper" are indeed French in origin. The word "dinner" comes from the Old French word "disner," meaning "to dine," while the word "supper" comes from the Old French word "souper," meaning "evening meal." These words were adopted into the English language from French and are still commonly used to refer to the main meal of the day, with "dinner" typically being used to refer to the midday meal and "supper" to refer to the evening meal.Rate this question:
-
- 2.
All Old English words that have disappeared were driven out by French equivalents.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
This statement is not accurate. While it is true that the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 brought French influence to the English language, not all Old English words disappeared or were replaced by French equivalents. Many Old English words are still in use today, although they may have undergone changes in spelling or pronunciation. Additionally, the English language continued to evolve and borrow words from other languages over time, not solely from French. Therefore, the correct answer is False.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
After the Norman Conquest, duplications frequently resulted, for many of the French words that came into use bore meanings already expressed by native word. In majority cases it was the French borrowing that died out.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because it claims that the French borrowings died out after the Norman Conquest, which is not true. In fact, many French words that came into use after the conquest have remained in the English language and are still used today.Rate this question:
-
- 4.
The substitution of the words was always immediate and none of the Old English words survive till today.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement suggests that none of the Old English words survive till today, but this is not true. While many Old English words have indeed been replaced or evolved over time, there are still several Old English words that are still in use today. Therefore, the correct answer is false.Rate this question:
-
- 5.
Where both the English and the French words survived they were generally differentiated in meaning. For example, doom and judgement.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer is that when both English and French words survived, they were typically given different meanings. This means that even though the words may have had a common origin, they developed distinct definitions in the two languages. An example of this is the words "doom" and "judgement," which have similar roots but are used to convey different concepts in English and French.Rate this question:
-
- 6.
The cultural and intellectual interests of the ruling class are reflected in words pertaining to the standart in fashion and dress.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement suggests that the cultural and intellectual interests of the ruling class are reflected in words related to fashion and dress. However, this is not necessarily true. While the ruling class may have some influence on fashion trends and standards, it does not mean that their cultural and intellectual interests are solely reflected in this aspect. Fashion and dress can be influenced by various factors such as social, economic, and cultural influences from different classes and groups in society. Therefore, the statement is false.Rate this question:
-
- 7.
New French words were quickly assimilated and entered into an easy natural fusion with the native element in English.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement suggests that new French words were easily integrated into English and blended well with the existing language. This implies that English speakers were able to adopt and incorporate these words seamlessly, indicating a natural fusion between the two languages. Therefore, the statement is true.Rate this question:
-
- 8.
In phrases like “to draw near”, “to hold one’s peace”, “to come to a head” even when the words are English the pattern is French.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the correct answer is that the given statement is true. The phrase "to draw near", "to hold one's peace", "to come to a head" follow a pattern that is derived from the French language, even though the words themselves are in English. This suggests that the pattern or structure of these phrases has been influenced by the French language.Rate this question:
-
- 9.
It will be observed that the French words introduced into English as a result of the Norman Conquest often present an appearance quite different from that which they have in modern French.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because the French words that were introduced into English as a result of the Norman Conquest have undergone changes over time and do not necessarily resemble their modern French counterparts. This is due to various factors such as linguistic evolution and influences from other languages.Rate this question:
-
- 10.
The total number of French words adopted during the Middle English period was slightly over 50 000
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
During the Middle English period, the total number of French words adopted was not slightly over 50,000.Rate this question:
-
- 11.
The influence of the Norman Conquest is generally known as the Latin Influence of the Third Period in recognition of the ultimate source of the new French words.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because the Norman Conquest refers to the invasion and occupation of England by the Normans in 1066. This event had a significant impact on the English language, introducing a large number of French words and phrases into the English vocabulary. The influence of the Norman Conquest is often referred to as the Latin Influence of the Third Period because the French language at that time was heavily influenced by Latin. Therefore, the statement accurately acknowledges the Norman Conquest as the source of the new French words in English.Rate this question:
-
- 12.
The 13 and 14 centuries were especially prolific in Latin borrowings
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The statement is false because the 13th and 14th centuries were not particularly prolific in Latin borrowings. Latin borrowings were more common during earlier centuries, such as the 11th and 12th centuries, when Latin was still widely used in various fields such as science, religion, and law. However, during the 13th and 14th centuries, there was a shift towards vernacular languages and a decline in the use of Latin, leading to fewer Latin borrowings during this time period.Rate this question:
-
- 13.
Latin borrowings terms relating to law, medicine, theology, science and literature, words often justified in the beginning by technical or professional use and later acquiring a wider application.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
Latin borrowings terms relating to law, medicine, theology, science, and literature are often justified in the beginning by their technical or professional use. However, over time, these terms acquire a wider application and become more commonly used in everyday language. This is why the statement "Latin borrowings terms relating to law, medicine, theology, science, and literature, words often justified in the beginning by technical or professional use and later acquiring a wider application" is true. Latin terms have had a significant influence on various fields and continue to be used in a broader context beyond their original professional or technical use.Rate this question:
-
- 14.
The richness of English in synonyms is largely due to the happy mingling of Latin, French, and native elements. It has been said that we have a antonym at each level- popular, literary, and learned
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The explanation for the given answer, False, is that the statement claims that English has an antonym at each level - popular, literary, and learned. However, this statement is incorrect as English does not necessarily have an antonym at each level. While English does have a wide range of synonyms due to the influence of Latin, French, and native elements, the presence of antonyms at each level is not a defining characteristic of the language.Rate this question:
-
- 15.
The latest study of the Low Dutch element in English considers some 10000.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
The explanation for the answer "False" is that the statement in the question is incomplete and does not make sense. It mentions a study of the Low Dutch element in English considering some 10000, but it does not provide any clear information or context about what is being considered or studied. Therefore, it is not possible to determine if the statement is true or false based on the given information.Rate this question:
-
- 16.
Four principal dialects of Middle English: Northern, East Midland , West Midland and Southern.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The statement is true because during the Middle English period, the English language had significant regional variations, which resulted in the development of four principal dialects: Northern, East Midland, West Midland, and Southern. These dialects were influenced by various factors such as geography, social class, and historical events. The existence of these distinct dialects is well-documented in Middle English literature and provides evidence of the linguistic diversity during that time.Rate this question:
-
- 17.
Midland dialect became a foundation for standard English because Midland region occupied a middle position between the extreme divergences of the north and south and compromised the neighbouring dialect differences and Midland district was the largest and most populous of the major dialect areas.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Midland dialect became a foundation for standard English because it occupied a middle position between the extreme divergences of the north and south. This allowed it to compromise the neighboring dialect differences and create a more uniform language. Additionally, the Midland district was the largest and most populous of the major dialect areas, further solidifying its influence on the development of standard English.Rate this question:
-
- 18.
Chaucer’s importance was paramount among the influences bringing about the adoption of a spoken standard
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
Chaucer's importance was not paramount among the influences bringing about the adoption of a spoken standard.Rate this question:
-
- 19.
By far the most influential factor in the rise of Standard English was the importance of London as the capital of England. It is likely that the language of the city would have become the prevailing dialect without the help of any other factors. However complete uniformity was not attained until 16 century.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The explanation for the given correct answer (True) is that the passage states that the most influential factor in the rise of Standard English was the importance of London as the capital of England. It suggests that without any other factors, the language of the city would have become the prevailing dialect. Additionally, the passage mentions that complete uniformity in the language was not achieved until the 16th century. Therefore, based on this information, it can be inferred that the statement is true.Rate this question:
-
- 20.
Some idea of Latin borrowings of ME range and character may be gained from a selected but miscellaneous list of examples
Correct Answer
N/A - 21.
The changes of Middle English period influenced
- A.
Grammar and its’ vocabulary
- B.
Pronunciation
- C.
English literature
Correct Answer
A. Grammar and its’ vocabularyExplanation
During the Middle English period, significant changes occurred in the English language, particularly in grammar and vocabulary. Old English grammar, with its complex inflections, started to simplify, leading to the emergence of a more analytic grammar. Additionally, the vocabulary expanded due to the influence of French and Latin, resulting in a richer and more diverse lexicon. These changes in grammar and vocabulary laid the foundation for the development of Modern English. The other options, pronunciation and English literature, were also influenced during this period, but to a lesser extent compared to grammar and vocabulary.Rate this question:
-
- 22.
In the Middle English the grammar reduced English
- A.
From analytic to highly inflected
- B.
From isolated to inflected
- C.
From a highly inflected to an extremely analytical
Correct Answer
C. From a highly inflected to an extremely analyticalExplanation
This answer suggests that in Middle English, the grammar of English changed from being highly inflected (having many grammatical endings and markers) to becoming extremely analytical (using word order and auxiliary verbs to indicate grammatical relationships). This shift in grammar resulted in a reduction of inflections and an increase in the use of word order and auxiliary verbs to convey meaning.Rate this question:
-
- 23.
In the early Middle English only two methods of indicating plural remained fairly distinctive
- A.
The –s or –es from the strong masculine declension and –en from the weak
- B.
–en from the strong and –s or –es from weak
- C.
–ed from strong and –en from weak
Correct Answer
A. The –s or –es from the strong masculine declension and –en from the weakExplanation
In early Middle English, there were two distinct methods of indicating plural forms. The first method was to add -s or -es to the end of a word, which was derived from the strong masculine declension. The second method was to add -en to the end of a word, which was derived from the weak declension. These two methods were the most commonly used ways to indicate plural forms during that time period.Rate this question:
-
- 24.
In Middle English there was a loss of
- A.
OE pronunciation
- B.
Dual number
- C.
Ending –en
Correct Answer
B. Dual numberExplanation
In Middle English, the dual number, which is a grammatical number used to indicate two of something, was lost. This means that Middle English did not have a specific form or ending to indicate when there were only two of something. This is a significant change from Old English, where the dual number was used.Rate this question:
-
- 25.
We have only two forms of pronouns surviving through Middle English and continuing in use today. Which ones?
Correct Answer
N/A - 26.
Which 3 languages were the first to be in contact with the early English?
- A.
Celtic, Latin, Scandinavian
- B.
Celtic, Gaelic, Latin
- C.
Celtic, Romanian, Scandinavian
Correct Answer
C. Celtic, Romanian, ScandinavianExplanation
The correct answer is Celtic, Latin, Scandinavian. Celtic was one of the first languages to come into contact with early English due to the Celtic tribes that inhabited the British Isles. Latin also had a significant influence on early English, especially through the Roman occupation of Britain. Scandinavian languages, specifically Old Norse, were introduced to England through the Viking invasions and had a lasting impact on the English language. Romanian, on the other hand, was not one of the first languages to be in contact with early English, making it an incorrect option.Rate this question:
-
- 27.
Which group of words in Old English can be traced to a Celtic source
- A.
Those that the Anglo-Saxons learned through everyday contact
- B.
Those that were introduced by the Irish missionaries
- C.
Both answers are correct
Correct Answer
C. Both answers are correctExplanation
Both answers are correct because Old English contains words that were learned through everyday contact with the Anglo-Saxons and words that were introduced by Irish missionaries. The Anglo-Saxons had frequent contact with the Celtic-speaking Britons, and as a result, some Celtic words entered the Old English vocabulary. Additionally, Irish missionaries played a significant role in spreading Christianity and literacy in Anglo-Saxon England, bringing with them Latin loanwords and Celtic words that were incorporated into Old English. Therefore, both sources contributed to the presence of Celtic words in Old English.Rate this question:
-
- 28.
End the sentence. The Celtic influence was
- A.
The least of the early influences that affected the English language
- B.
The biggest of the early influences that affected the English language
- C.
The biggest of the early influences that affected the English language
Correct Answer
A. The least of the early influences that affected the English languageExplanation
The correct answer is "the least of the early influences that affected the English language." This means that the Celtic influence had the smallest impact compared to other early influences on the English language.Rate this question:
-
- 29.
Which words can be assigned to the period of continental borrowing?
- A.
That were recorded before the 12th century
- B.
That were recorded before the 10th century
- C.
That were recorded before 8th century
Correct Answer
B. That were recorded before the 10th centuryExplanation
The correct answer is "that were recorded before the 10th century." This is because the period of continental borrowing refers to a time when languages borrowed words from each other, particularly in Europe. The borrowing occurred before the 10th century, as indicated by the answer option.Rate this question:
-
- 30.
What is the most reliable evidence to decide about the date at which a word was borrowed?
- A.
Phonetic form
- B.
Grammar
- C.
Lexis
Correct Answer
A. Phonetic formExplanation
The most reliable evidence to decide about the date at which a word was borrowed is its phonetic form. The phonetic form of a word refers to its pronunciation and sound structure. When a word is borrowed from one language to another, it often undergoes changes in its phonetic form over time. By analyzing the phonetic form of a word, linguists can determine its historical development and trace its origins. This makes phonetic form a crucial piece of evidence in determining the date of word borrowing.Rate this question:
-
- 31.
To what owe their adoption the first Latin words?
- A.
To contact between Romans and Germanic tribes
- B.
To contact with Celtic tribes
- C.
To contact with Germanic tribes
Correct Answer
A. To contact between Romans and Germanic tribesExplanation
The adoption of the first Latin words can be attributed to the contact between Romans and Germanic tribes. This contact would have led to cultural exchange and linguistic influence, resulting in the incorporation of Latin words into the Germanic languages spoken by the tribes.Rate this question:
-
- 32.
What words described food in Germanic dialects that had been taken from the Roman language?
Correct Answer
N/A - 33.
What Latin word had influence in forming English place-names, such as Manchester, Doncaster, Gloucester?
Correct Answer
N/AExplanation
Latin had influence in forming English place-names such as Manchester, Doncaster, Gloucester.Rate this question:
- 34.
When was Britain Christianized?
- A.
600
- B.
597
- C.
597 B.C
Correct Answer
B. 597Explanation
In 597, Britain was Christianized. This means that Christianity was introduced and established as the dominant religion in Britain during this time.Rate this question:
-
- 35.
In the 10th century the decline had affected the moral fiber of the church and as a result
- A.
Feasting and drinking was not common as well as services were neglected
- B.
Learning was decayed, however, education remained its high level
- C.
Immorality was flagrant
Correct Answer
C. Immorality was flagrantExplanation
In the 10th century, the decline in the church had a negative impact on its moral values. As a result, immorality became widespread and openly displayed. This suggests that there was a lack of moral conduct and ethical behavior within the church during this time period.Rate this question:
-
- 36.
Who made a start for reformation restoring churches and founding monasteries as well as spreading education?
- A.
King Alfred
- B.
Dunstan Bishop
- C.
Benedict Clun
Correct Answer
A. King AlfredExplanation
King Alfred made a start for reformation by restoring churches, founding monasteries, and spreading education. He played a significant role in revitalizing the church and promoting learning during his reign. His efforts in rebuilding churches and establishing monasteries helped to strengthen the religious institutions in England. Additionally, King Alfred's emphasis on education led to the establishment of schools and the translation of important texts into English, contributing to the spread of knowledge and intellectual development in the country.Rate this question:
-
- 37.
Near the end of the OE period English underwent a third foreign influence in contact with
- A.
Germany
- B.
Scandinavia
- C.
Spain
Correct Answer
B. ScandinaviaExplanation
During the Old English (OE) period, English experienced a third foreign influence, which was contact with Scandinavia. This contact occurred near the end of the OE period and had a significant impact on the English language. The Vikings from Scandinavia, specifically the Norsemen, invaded and settled in various parts of England, bringing with them their language, Old Norse. As a result, Old Norse words and grammatical structures were incorporated into the English language, leading to changes in vocabulary and syntax. This Scandinavian influence is evident in many English words that have Norse origins, such as "sky," "knife," and "window."Rate this question:
-
- 38.
Name 5 examples of Latin borrowings that came into English in the works of Elfric
Correct Answer
N/A - 39.
Who prepared a version of the Benedictine Rule, known as the Concordia Regularis?
- A.
Fleury
- B.
Benedict
- C.
Athelwold
Correct Answer
C. AthelwoldExplanation
Athelwold is the correct answer because he is known for preparing a version of the Benedictine Rule called the Concordia Regularis. Athelwold was an English bishop and reformer who played a significant role in the revival of monasticism in England during the 10th century. The Concordia Regularis was a compilation of monastic regulations and practices that aimed to restore discipline and spirituality within the monastic communities. Athelwold's efforts in promoting the Benedictine Rule and his work on the Concordia Regularis had a lasting impact on the development of monasticism in England.Rate this question:
-
- 40.
What is the recognition between the Old English and borrowed words of Scandinavian origin?
- A.
The sk, k, ei sound
- B.
The th sound
- C.
The g sound
Correct Answer
A. The sk, k, ei soundExplanation
The recognition between the Old English and borrowed words of Scandinavian origin can be identified through the sk, k, ei sound. This suggests that words with these sounds are likely to have been borrowed from Scandinavian languages and incorporated into Old English.Rate this question:
-
- 41.
How we can distinguish the Scandinavian Place-Names?
- A.
By the ending –on of the place (London, Bonton…)
- B.
By the ending –by of the place (Grimsby, Derby, Whitby)
- C.
By the ending –ham of the place (Birmingham, Nottingham)
Correct Answer
B. By the ending –by of the place (Grimsby, Derby, Whitby)Explanation
The correct answer is "By the ending –by of the place (Grimsby, Derby, Whitby)". Scandinavian place-names often end with the suffix "-by", which means "village" or "farmstead" in Old Norse. This distinguishes them from place-names ending in "-on" or "-ham", which have different origins or meanings.Rate this question:
-
- 42.
What are the pronouns that had been introduced in OE from Scandinavian?
- A.
Hῑe, hiera, him
- B.
He, she, it
- C.
They, their, them
Correct Answer
C. They, their, themExplanation
The pronouns "they, their, them" were introduced in Old English from Scandinavian. These pronouns are used to refer to a group of people or things, indicating a plural subject or object. In Old English, the influence of Scandinavian languages led to the adoption of these pronouns, which are still commonly used in modern English.Rate this question:
-
- 43.
What is the origin of the present plural ‘are’ of the verb to be?
- A.
Scandinavian
- B.
Danes
- C.
Latin
Correct Answer
B. DanesExplanation
The origin of the present plural 'are' of the verb to be is the Danes.Rate this question:
-
- 44.
Scandinavian influenced the OE grammar. What are these influences?
Correct Answer
N/A - 45.
In the movement of French influence .... stages can be observed
- A.
2
- B.
3
- C.
5
Correct Answer
A. 2Explanation
The correct answer is 2 because the question mentions that stages can be observed in the movement of French influence. Since the answer options are numbers, it can be inferred that these numbers represent the stages. Out of the given options, 2 is the only number that matches with the answer.Rate this question:
-
- 46.
The French words appearing in English before 1250 were
- A.
Many of them were from the lower class
- B.
Assosiated with the church
- C.
Both answers are correct
Correct Answer
C. Both answers are correctExplanation
The correct answer is both answers are correct. This means that both statements, "many of them were from the lower class" and "associated with the church," are true. The French words that appeared in English before 1250 were indeed from the lower class and had a connection to the church.Rate this question:
-
- 47.
In the period after 1250 of French influence words were related to
- A.
Fashion, food and social life
- B.
Literature and religious terms
- C.
Both answers are correct
Correct Answer
A. Fashion, food and social lifeExplanation
During the period after 1250, French influence had a significant impact on various aspects of society. This influence extended to fashion, as French styles and trends became popular and influential. Additionally, French cuisine and culinary practices were adopted and integrated into the social and cultural fabric. Lastly, French influence also extended to social life, shaping societal norms and behaviors. Therefore, it can be concluded that words related to fashion, food, and social life accurately represent the impact of French influence during this period.Rate this question:
-
- 48.
What governmental and administrative words came from French to English after 1250?
Correct Answer
N/A - 49.
What words from the law came into English after the influence of France in 1250?
Correct Answer
N/A - 50.
How is “Šventasis Raštas“ called in English?
- A.
Bible
- B.
Holy Paper
- C.
Holy Writ
Correct Answer
C. Holy WritExplanation
"Šventasis Raštas" is a Lithuanian phrase that translates to "Holy Writ" in English. This term is commonly used to refer to the Bible, which is considered a sacred and authoritative text in Christianity. "Bible" and "Holy Paper" are not accurate translations for "Šventasis Raštas," so the correct answer is "Holy Writ."Rate this question:
-
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 20, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Jan 03, 2015Quiz Created by
Doviliuks
- Cartography Quizzes
- Civics Quizzes
- Economics Quizzes
- El112 Quizzes
- Geography Quizzes
- History Quizzes
- Humanities Quizzes
- Law Quizzes
- Linguistics Quizzes
- Logic Quizzes
- Math Quizzes
- Philosophy Quizzes
- Political Science Quizzes
- Politics Quizzes
- Science Quizzes
- Social Science Quizzes
- Sociology Quizzes
Back to top