Question

question 18 (5 points)
the main disadvantage of relying on a computer spell checker is that it
a) cant distinguish between homonyms.
b) highlights all words that arent in its dictionary.
c) takes too long to make the corrections.
d) may have too few words in its dictionary.

Explanation:

Analyze spell checker limitations

A computer spell checker compares written words against its built-in dictionary database. It flags words that are misspelled (i.e., not found in its dictionary).

Evaluate the role of homonyms

Homonyms (including homophones) are words that are spelled correctly but used in the wrong context (e.g., writing "there" instead of "their"). Because both words are spelled correctly and exist in the dictionary, a standard spell checker cannot identify this contextual error.

Assess the given options

• Option A directly addresses this limitation regarding homonyms.
• Option B is a standard feature, not a main disadvantage.
• Option C is incorrect as computer spell checkers are nearly instantaneous.
• Option D is incorrect because modern digital dictionaries are extremely comprehensive.

Answer:

• (A) can't distinguish between homonyms. (Correct answer)
• (B) highlights all words that aren't in its dictionary.
• (C) takes too long to make the corrections.
• (D) may have too few words in its dictionary.