Question

What prompted Johnson to write a dictionary of the English language?

Answer 1

There were about 2020 dictionaries published before Dr. Johnson's attempt to compile one. He found words plentiful without any set rule and syntax without any order. The words spread under chance. They were resigned to tyranny and the fashion of the times. Many innovations were defective and the words were exposed to corruptions of ignorance. Johnson aimed at giving longevity to the dictionary and dedicate it to his country. He wanted to give it immortality. Foreign countries should develop the language. His work should enlighten repositories of science and men of letters.