Which feature is characteristic of Early Modern English vocabulary?

• A. A decrease in vocabulary.
• B. A large influx of Latin/Greek vocabulary.
• C. A move toward simpler grammar with no new words.
• D. A complete standardization occurs but no new borrowings.

Answer: (B)

Early Modern English shows a big growth in its vocabulary because of the Renaissance revival of Latin and Greek. Scholars and translators brought in a large number of terms to name new ideas in science, philosophy, religion, law, and education, often formed from Latin or Greek roots or borrowed directly. The spread of printed books and efforts to standardize spelling helped these words become common in everyday use, so the lexicon expands rather than shrinks. This influx of Latin and Greek vocabulary is the defining feature. The other statements don’t fit: the period did not see a shrinking vocabulary, and new words continued to enter English even as some grammar changed.