passwella.
Menu

JAMB Use of English 1997 past questions and answers

98 questions. Try each one, then open the answer to check yourself and read the explanation.

Question 1

Comprehension
JAMB 1997 Passage I: Chike and the crowd
Chike must have passed the house five times. And yet, he was still not sure. Was this the house he had visited so often in the past? The house he used to visit was a bungalow. This house, too, was a bungalow. The old house was situated between two-storeyed buildings, this one, too was so situated. But in spite of this feeling of certainty, Chike had a vague suspicion that the house he had passed so often that day might be the wrong house after all. Could an absence of two years have blurred his memory so badly?

After a few moments' hesitation, Chike began to move towards the house and then stopped, as if held back by an invisible hand. His attention had been attracted by a girl of about twenty-four, who was tripping along the pavement to his right. He turned and advanced towards her, and was about to call her by what he felt was her name when he discovered that he had made a mistake in respect of her identity.

Just as Chike turned from the girl to continue his quest, he heard voices shouting, 'thief! thief!' and saw a crowd materialize in seconds. At the head of this justice-impelled rabble, was a ludicrously fat woman who, in spite of her size, bounced along with the agility of a prize athlete. This barrel bellowed loudest and clapped her hands vigorously to punctuate her outburst. And as she did so, the surplus flesh on her pudgy arms quivered. 'They are all the same', this woman screamed, addressing nobody in particular. 'They dress gorgeously, but underneath they are rogues.'

Again, she clapped her hands and again, there was a quivering of loose flesh. Chike was so busily occupied with watching the antics of this woman that he did not notice at first that the object of her venom was the girl he had seen earlier. It was this girl that was now surrounded by the crowd, with many people groaning, sighing and hissing in unison.

Chike relaxed, and prepared to watch the drama unfolding before him

The expression 'blurred his memory' means

  1. A.confused him
  2. B.erased his memory
  3. C.damaged his brain
  4. D.distorted his thoughts
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (distorted his thoughts)

Explanation

An absence of two years had made his memory of the house unclear, so his recollection (his thoughts about it) was distorted.

Open this question

Question 2

Comprehension

Chike left the girl alone because he

  1. A.discovered that she was a thief
  2. B.was afraid of the fat woman
  3. C.did not know her
  4. D.did not like her
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (did not know her)

Explanation

He was about to call her name when he realised he had mistaken her identity, i.e. he did not know her.

Open this question

Question 3

Comprehension

Many people in the crowd groaned, sighed and hissed because they were

  1. A.angry with the girl
  2. B.sorry for the girl
  3. C.sorry for the fat woman
  4. D.angry that the woman had lied against the girl
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (angry with the girl)

Explanation

The crowd was chasing the girl as a 'thief', so their groans and hisses showed anger at her.

Open this question

Question 4

Comprehension

The expression, 'justice-impelled' in the passage refers to the desire of the crowd to

  1. A.see that the case was taken before a judge
  2. B.take the thief to the police station
  3. C.try the thief immediately
  4. D.see that there was fair play
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (try the thief immediately)

Explanation

A rabble 'impelled' by justice is a mob driven to punish the supposed thief on the spot, i.e. to try her immediately.

Open this question

Question 5

Comprehension

The impression one has of the fat woman described in the passage is that she is

  1. A.the thief
  2. B.a good person
  3. C.overzealous
  4. D.domineering
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (overzealous)

Explanation

She leads the mob, bellows loudest and claps wildly, which shows she is overzealous.

Open this question

Question 6

Comprehension
JAMB 1997 Passage II: Theatre in Africa
Theatre in the recent past used to be a very popular art in traditional African society. It used to be a point of intersection where members of the community not only come to entertain themselves, but 'join heads together'. In the traditional context of African drama therefore, theatre was a popular and respectable institution which preserved the people's culture and tradition. Theatre was popular with the people because it emphasized community participation, peace and progress. The presentations focused on the people's lives, their aspirations, fears and hopes. But today, the situation is different. Theatre is becoming very unpopular.

Africa of the present age is pre-occupied with many problems yearning for immediate solutions. The continent is facing hydra-headed challenges — challenges on the political, social and economic scenes. In a world where science and technology are seen as the solutions to these problems, little attention is paid to the arts. Literature generally, and drama in particular, is often rated very low on the utility scale. Many in Africa today look at drama and theatre as a mere thing of fun, a joke so to say.

Elitism is another barrier that militates against the appreciation of theatre as a communal art. Folk theatre is appreciated by a negligible number of people. Contemporary focus is on literary theatre. Unfortunately, literary theatre only pretends to serve the interest of its society while in reality it has a foreign audience in mind. The use of European and American theatrical conventions by our academic playwrights can bear witness to this anomaly.

The popularity of the literary African theatre is further marred by the medium of communication as most literary dramas in Africa are written in foreign languages which are not understood by many Africans. The question often asked is whether the artist should climb down to the level of his community or stay at his exalted height and wait for the community to gradually move up to him.

Theatre was popular in Africa because it

  1. A.was traditional and simple in nature
  2. B.dealt with the political, social and economic problems of the society
  3. C.was a source of fun
  4. D.was communal and reflected the common concerns of the people
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (was communal and reflected the common concerns of the people)

Explanation

The passage says theatre emphasized community participation and focused on the people's lives, aspirations, fears and hopes.

Open this question

Question 7

Comprehension

One of the reasons why theatre is unpopular in modern Africa is that it

  1. A.is regarded as not being of much use
  2. B.only deals with culture and tradition
  3. C.lacks scientific and academic bases
  4. D.is always funny and looked down upon
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (is regarded as not being of much use)

Explanation

The passage says drama 'is often rated very low on the utility scale', i.e. people think it is not useful.

Open this question

Question 8

Comprehension

In the passage the terms 'theatre' and 'drama' are used

  1. A.differently
  2. B.concurrently
  3. C.interchangeably
  4. D.sparingly
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (interchangeably)

Explanation

The writer switches between 'theatre' and 'drama' for the same thing, so they are used interchangeably.

Open this question

Question 9

Comprehension

One of the arguments in the passage is that academic playwrights

  1. A.express themselves only in foreign languages
  2. B.serve as a catalyst in the society's appreciation of theatre
  3. C.work against the common man's appreciation of theatre
  4. D.make theatre popular in traditional societies.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (work against the common man's appreciation of theatre)

Explanation

The writer blames 'elitism': academic playwrights borrow European and American conventions, have a foreign audience in mind and mostly write in foreign languages. All this keeps ordinary people from enjoying theatre.

Open this question

Question 10

Comprehension

By the expression 'climb down', the author implies that modern playwrights should

  1. A.be simplistic in the use of language
  2. B.not move up
  3. C.use language that is most appreciated by the people
  4. D.wait for the community to catch up with them.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (use language that is most appreciated by the people)

Explanation

'Climbing down to the level of the community' means writing in a language the people understand and enjoy.

Open this question

Question 11

Comprehension
JAMB 1997 Passage III: Financing the university
The financing of the university will always be a vexatious problem not only because of the need for it to maintain a level of independence that allows for the thriving of intellectual pursuit but also for the size of funding that is required to maintain an acceptable level of infrastructure in a modern university. The experience of the Nigerian university in recent years has, in this regard, been almost alarming. The funding levels required constitute sufficient reasons for diversifying the sources. Even if government was in a position on its own to meet all of the university's financial requirements, I consider it desirable that every effort be made to reduce such contribution in the interest of university autonomy. I also hold the view that the university should seek to become dependent, in a substantial way, on funds generated from within. In other words, the sources of funding of the university should be diversified as much as possible. Based on this principle, we can identify four sources — government, industry, students and individual philanthropists. I must add quickly that each source has its own set of problems in its continuing interaction with the university, which ought to be addressed here.

Of all the four major sources of financing university education mentioned above, contribution through fees from the students involves intricate issues of special concern. If government gives as an expression of its obligation to promote general welfare of society, if industry gives in order to enhance its chances of procurement of needed human, information and material resources, as well as enhance its social responsibility, if the general public gives as an indication of voluntary support for a worthy social cause, students (and by inference, their parents) should give in order to purchase an economic good for meeting their own felt need in the expectation that they will be satisfied with the product purchased.

(Adapted from Onosode, G. O. 'The Politics of Managing People. Prospects and Poverty: The Role of the University; 1990 OAU Convocation)

It is important for universities to be independent so that they can

  1. A.attract funds from industries
  2. B.determine their goals
  3. C.be left to expand without any hindrance
  4. D.carry out effective research.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (determine their goals)

Explanation

Independence lets a university decide its own direction and intellectual goals without outside control.

Open this question

Question 12

Comprehension

The writer advocates for multiple sources of university funding in order to

  1. A.enhance university autonomy
  2. B.reduce dependence on the government
  3. C.ensure that the numerous needs of the universities are met
  4. D.maintain acceptable levels of infrastructural development.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (enhance university autonomy)

Explanation

He wants government's share reduced 'in the interest of university autonomy' and sources diversified as much as possible.

Open this question

Question 13

Comprehension

The expression 'intricate issues of special concern' means

  1. A.important policy statements
  2. B.interwoven topics of significance
  3. C.complex matters requiring careful thought
  4. D.knotty problems that concern everybody
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (complex matters requiring careful thought)

Explanation

'Intricate' means complicated, and 'of special concern' means needing careful attention.

Open this question

Question 14

Comprehension

The word 'diversified', as used in the passage, means

  1. A.differentiated
  2. B.varied
  3. C.diffused
  4. D.widened.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (varied)

Explanation

Diversifying the sources of funding means making them many and varied.

Open this question

Question 15

Comprehension

The source of university funding emphasized in the passage is

  1. A.government
  2. B.industry
  3. C.the general public
  4. D.students
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (students)

Explanation

The second paragraph singles out fees from students as involving 'issues of special concern'.

Open this question

Question 16

Comprehension
JAMB 1997 Passage IV: Life at home (cloze)
In today's society, few people at home need feel ________ (16) from other people and ________ (17) from the world about them. Telephone, television, car, common social and educational ________ (18) with other parents, all keep married couples in living ________ (19) with the rest of the community. If a person feels ________ (20), it may be that he or she has allowed himself or herself to become so.

The person who ________ (21) the home is the master of the immediate environment, and is free to plan the daily ________ (22) to allow for time off, or for reading, or cultural or social activities, much more so than the worker in a factory or office. In fact, in the case of a full-time housewife and mother, if she uses her time to good effect, she could develope ________ (23) by reading or home study as well as enrich herself with the ameliorating experience denied to a working woman, namely loving daily contact with her children. ________ (24) children is regarded by many people as a rewarding ________ (25) and a labour of love.

Passage IV, gap 16 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): In today's society, few people at home need feel ________ (16) from other people and ________ (17) from the world about them.

  1. A.estranged
  2. B.discouraged
  3. C.bad
  4. D.intrigued
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (estranged)

Explanation

To feel 'estranged from' people is to feel cut off from them, which matches the idea of isolation in the passage.

Open this question

Question 17

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 17 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): In today's society, few people at home need feel ________ (16) from other people and ________ (17) from the world about them.

  1. A.cut out
  2. B.cut off
  3. C.cut away
  4. D.cut down
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (cut off)

Explanation

To be 'cut off from' the world is to be separated from it.

Open this question

Question 18

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 18 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): Telephone, television, car, common social and educational ________ (18) with other parents, all keep married couples in living ________ (19) with the rest of the community.

  1. A.interest
  2. B.associations
  3. C.interests
  4. D.escapades
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (interests)

Explanation

Parents share 'common social and educational interests'; the plural matches the list.

Open this question

Question 19

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 19 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): Telephone, television, car, common social and educational ________ (18) with other parents, all keep married couples in living ________ (19) with the rest of the community.

  1. A.contact
  2. B.contract
  3. C.activity
  4. D.together
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (contact)

Explanation

The expression is 'in contact with' the community.

Open this question

Question 20

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 20 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): If a person feels ________ (20), it may be that he or she has allowed himself or herself to become so.

  1. A.deprived
  2. B.isolated
  3. C.neglected
  4. D.cheated
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (isolated)

Explanation

The paragraph is about not being cut off from others, so the feeling is being isolated.

Open this question

Question 21

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 21 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): The person who ________ (21) the home is the master of the immediate environment, and is free to plan the daily ________ (22) to allow for time off, or for reading, or cultural or social activities, much more so than the worker in a factory or office.

  1. A.administers
  2. B.runs
  3. C.orders
  4. D.arranges
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (runs)

Explanation

We say a person 'runs' a home, meaning manages it.

Open this question

Question 22

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 22 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): The person who ________ (21) the home is the master of the immediate environment, and is free to plan the daily ________ (22) to allow for time off, or for reading, or cultural or social activities, much more so than the worker in a factory or office.

  1. A.chores
  2. B.timetable
  3. C.organization
  4. D.routine
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (routine)

Explanation

One plans 'the daily routine', the regular pattern of each day.

Open this question

Question 23

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 23 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): In fact, in the case of a full-time housewife and mother, if she uses her time to good effect, she could develope ________ (23) by reading or home study as well as enrich herself with the ameliorating experience denied to a working woman, namely loving daily contact with her children.

  1. A.mentally
  2. B.physically
  3. C.economically
  4. D.intelligently
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (mentally)

Explanation

Reading and home study develop the mind, so she develops mentally.

Open this question

Question 24

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 24 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): ________ (24) children is regarded by many people as a rewarding ________ (25) and a labour of love.

  1. A.Bearing
  2. B.Dressing up
  3. C.Washing up
  4. D.Bringing up
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (Bringing up)

Explanation

'Bringing up' children means raising them, which is a long labour of love.

Open this question

Question 25

Comprehension

Passage IV, gap 25 (choose the most appropriate option for the gap): ________ (24) children is regarded by many people as a rewarding ________ (25) and a labour of love.

  1. A.activity
  2. B.experience
  3. C.promotion
  4. D.engagement
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (experience)

Explanation

Raising children is described as 'a rewarding experience'.

Open this question

Question 26

Sentence Interpretation

Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence: The stadium had a capacity crowd in spite of the weather

  1. A.The weather favoured the crowd at the stadium
  2. B.The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium
  3. C.The stadium was not filled because of the weather
  4. D.The crowd loved the weather at the stadium
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (The crowd defied the weather to fill the stadium)

Explanation

A 'capacity crowd' fills the stadium, and 'in spite of the weather' means the weather was bad but people came anyway.

Open this question

Question 27

Sentence Interpretation

Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence: Imona couldn't have attended lectures yesterday

  1. A.It was possible that Imona attended lectures yesterday
  2. B.It was possible that Imona didn't attend lectures yesterday
  3. C.It was impossible that Imona attended lectures yesterday
  4. D.It was impossible that Imona didn't attend lectures yesterday.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (It was impossible that Imona attended lectures yesterday)

Explanation

'Couldn't have attended' means it was impossible that she attended.

Open this question

Question 28

Sentence Interpretation

Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence: The conference is biennial

  1. A.The conference is held twice every year
  2. B.The conference is held twice every two years
  3. C.The conference is held once every other year
  4. D.The conference lasts for two years
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (The conference is held once every other year)

Explanation

'Biennial' means happening once every two years (every other year); 'biannual' means twice a year.

Open this question

Question 29

Sentence Interpretation

Select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence: Only two ministers survived the recent cabinet reshuffle

  1. A.In the recent changes in government, only two ministers were sacked
  2. B.In the recent changes in government, all but two ministers remained alive
  3. C.In the recent changes in government, all but two ministers retained their posts.
  4. D.In the recent changes in government, all but two ministers were sacked.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (In the recent changes in government, all but two ministers were sacked.)

Explanation

Only two kept their posts, so all the others were removed.

Open this question

Question 31

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: He gave a painstaking account of his encounter with the ghost of his father

  1. A.sordid
  2. B.fearful
  3. C.half-hearted
  4. D.tender -hearted
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (half-hearted)

Explanation

'Painstaking' means very careful and thorough; the opposite is half-hearted.

Open this question

Question 32

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Bala was put off by Lanre's coquettish behaviour towards him

  1. A.unfriendly advances
  2. B.inviting and friendly advances
  3. C.quarrelsome attitude
  4. D.interesting attitude
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (unfriendly advances)

Explanation

Coquettish behaviour is flirting, i.e. friendly, inviting advances; the opposite is unfriendly advances.

Open this question

Question 33

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Since mortality is the lot of man, argued the preacher, we must all accept death with equanimity

  1. A.concern
  2. B.uncertainty
  3. C.serenity
  4. D.anxiety
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (anxiety)

Explanation

'Equanimity' means calmness; the opposite is anxiety.

Open this question

Question 35

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: I was advised to stay away from cities that are ravaged by crime

  1. A.spoilt by
  2. B.free from
  3. C.suffering from
  4. D.haven of
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (free from)

Explanation

Cities 'ravaged by crime' are badly damaged by it; the opposite is cities free from crime.

Open this question

Question 36

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: You can use lethal means if necessary to stop dangerous characters from molesting innocent citizens

  1. A.fatal
  2. B.cruel
  3. C.harmless
  4. D.soft
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (harmless)

Explanation

'Lethal' means deadly; the opposite is harmless.

Open this question

Question 37

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: His intention was not actually to punish the villagers, and in any case he is now making moves to pacify them

  1. A.placate
  2. B.ridicule
  3. C.appease
  4. D.annoy
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (annoy)

Explanation

To 'pacify' is to calm someone; the opposite is to annoy.

Open this question

Question 38

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: If you are really keen on immediate results, you just have to adopt this pragmatic approach

  1. A.practical
  2. B.unrealistic
  3. C.opportunistic
  4. D.sensible
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (unrealistic)

Explanation

'Pragmatic' means practical and realistic; the opposite is unrealistic.

Open this question

Question 39

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: My friend was reduced to beggary by various ill-advised business deals

  1. A.affluence
  2. B.penury
  3. C.influeuce
  4. D.poverty
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (affluence)

Explanation

'Beggary' is extreme poverty; the opposite is affluence (wealth).

Open this question

Question 40

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Measures were taken to authenticate the number of the booklets received

  1. A.reaffirm
  2. B.discredit
  3. C.discountenance
  4. D.count
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (discredit)

Explanation

To authenticate is to prove that something is real or correct. To discredit is to show that it can't be trusted, which is the opposite.

Open this question

Question 41

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: He urged other progressives in the country to join forces with his association,

  1. A.radicals
  2. B.conservatives
  3. C.pessimists
  4. D.activists
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (conservatives)

Explanation

Progressives favour change; conservatives resist it.

Open this question

Question 42

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Adama's father simply condoned her bad habits instead of punishing her appropriately

  1. A.opposed
  2. B.blamed
  3. C.accepted
  4. D.forbade
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (opposed)

Explanation

To 'condone' bad habits is to accept or overlook them; the opposite is to oppose them.

Open this question

Question 43

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The undesirable elements who perpetuate these vices are never detected

  1. A.aggravate
  2. B.overlook
  3. C.discontinue
  4. D.encourage
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (discontinue)

Explanation

To 'perpetuate' is to keep something going; the opposite is to discontinue it.

Open this question

Question 44

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Some travellers unwittingly render themselves open prey to questionable characters

  1. A.genuinely
  2. B.wholesomely
  3. C.knowingly
  4. D.inadvertently
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (knowingly)

Explanation

'Unwittingly' means without knowing; the opposite is knowingly.

Open this question

Question 45

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: His father is a shrewd businessman

  1. A.gullible
  2. B.orderly
  3. C.reliable
  4. D.resourceful
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (gullible)

Explanation

'Shrewd' means sharp and hard to fool; the opposite is gullible (easily fooled).

Open this question

Question 46

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Many people have raised the issue about the need for an equitable distribution of our wealth.

  1. A.a fair
  2. B.an even
  3. C.an unjust
  4. D.an undue
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (an unjust)

Explanation

'Equitable' means fair; the opposite is unjust.

Open this question

Question 47

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The pastor decided to exorcize the evil spirit as the afflicted member of his congregation cried for help

  1. A.expel
  2. B.drive
  3. C.invite
  4. D.charm
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (invite)

Explanation

To 'exorcize' a spirit is to drive it out; the opposite is to invite it in.

Open this question

Question 48

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: He mumbled a few words at the trial and then cried

  1. A.shouted
  2. B.murmured
  3. C.whispered
  4. D.announced
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (shouted)

Explanation

To 'mumble' is to speak low and unclearly; the opposite is to shout.

Open this question

Question 49

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: There are many areas of convergence between male and female behaviour

  1. A.concomitance
  2. B.concordance
  3. C.incompatibility
  4. D.incomparability
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (incompatibility)

Explanation

'Convergence' means coming together or agreeing; incompatibility (not fitting together) is the opposite.

Open this question

Question 50

Antonyms

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The greenhouse effect is beginning to abate in Europe

  1. A.intensify
  2. B.extenuate
  3. C.surface
  4. D.ameliorate
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (intensify)

Explanation

To 'abate' is to lessen; the opposite is to intensify.

Open this question

Question 51

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Adebayo's plans for the future are in the jair

  1. A.suspended
  2. B.uncertain
  3. C.empty
  4. D.floating
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (uncertain)

Explanation

Plans that are 'in the air' are still undecided, i.e. uncertain.

Open this question

Question 52

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The group of performers thrilled the audience with its peculiar choreography

  1. A.form of dancing
  2. B.art of theatrics
  3. C.type of costuming
  4. D.mode of singing
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (form of dancing)

Explanation

Choreography is the arrangement of dance steps, so a form of dancing.

Open this question

Question 53

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Our local paper is noted for its incisive editorials on local politics

  1. A.sarcastic
  2. B.penetrating
  3. C.decisive
  4. D.destructive
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (penetrating)

Explanation

'Incisive' means sharp and clear-thinking, i.e. penetrating.

Open this question

Question 54

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The criminal didn't bat an eyelid when the judge pronounced the sentence

  1. A.displayed no understanding whatsoever
  2. B.didn't shed a single tear
  3. C.moved none of his eyelids
  4. D.showed no emotion or surprise
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (showed no emotion or surprise)

Explanation

'Not batting an eyelid' means showing no reaction, emotion or surprise.

Open this question

Question 55

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The rally was attended only by people who were apolitical

  1. A.full of political fervour
  2. B.antagonistic to politicians
  3. C.new-breed politicians
  4. D.not interested in politics
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (not interested in politics)

Explanation

'Apolitical' means not interested or involved in politics.

Open this question

Question 56

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Smiling broadly, she explained why she always took exception to being referred to as his wife

  1. A.objected to
  2. B.preferred very much
  3. C.felt specially honoured by
  4. D.liked nothing except
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (objected to)

Explanation

To 'take exception to' something is to object to it.

Open this question

Question 57

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: In those days, an ordinary school drop-out would come around putting on airs

  1. A.trying to impress people
  2. B.trying to oppress people
  3. C.wearing flashy clothes
  4. D.dressed in light materials
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (trying to impress people)

Explanation

'Putting on airs' means behaving as if one is more important than one is, to impress people.

Open this question

Question 58

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Many Nigerians have inured themselves to hardship

  1. A.subjected
  2. B.submitted
  3. C.accustomed
  4. D.endeared
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (accustomed)

Explanation

To be 'inured' to hardship is to have become accustomed to it.

Open this question

Question 59

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: There are many venal judges in our law courts today

  1. A.qualified
  2. B.professional
  3. C.corrupt
  4. D.honest
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (corrupt)

Explanation

'Venal' means willing to take bribes, i.e. corrupt.

Open this question

Question 60

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: He is bound to expose himself by his nefarious activities

  1. A.kind
  2. B.disreputable
  3. C.despicable
  4. D.nocturnal
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (despicable)

Explanation

'Nefarious' means wicked or criminal, and 'despicable' (deserving hatred) is closest.

Open this question

Question 61

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: In this house, children are supposed to be in bed by ten o'clock

  1. A.just before
  2. B.not before
  3. C.about
  4. D.not later than
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (not later than)

Explanation

'In bed by ten o'clock' means at ten or earlier, i.e. not later than ten.

Open this question

Question 62

Sentence Interpretation

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: You don't have to agree with our procedure

  1. A.shouldn't disagree
  2. B.must not agree
  3. C.may disagree if you wish
  4. D.may not disagree if you don't wish
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (may disagree if you wish)

Explanation

'Don't have to' means there is no obligation, so you are free to disagree if you wish.

Open this question

Question 63

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The new Vice-Chancellor's immediate concern was to tide over the major difficulties of the moment

  1. A.temporarily accommodate
  2. B.permanently handle
  3. C.decisively solve
  4. D.pretend to solve
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (temporarily accommodate)

Explanation

To 'tide over' a difficulty is to manage it for a short time until things get better.

Open this question

Question 64

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The minister's anger was aggravated by the news of the disaster

  1. A.abated
  2. B.magnified
  3. C.intensified
  4. D.impeded
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (intensified)

Explanation

To 'aggravate' anger is to make it worse, i.e. to intensify it.

Open this question

Question 65

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The lawyer gave evasive answers to all the questions

  1. A.unintelligent
  2. B.ineffective
  3. C.unreliable
  4. D.equivocal
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (equivocal)

Explanation

Evasive answers avoid giving a clear reply, which is what 'equivocal' means.

Open this question

Question 66

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: Their strength is their staggering capacity to reproduce

  1. A.unstable multiplying power
  2. B.unreliable attacking power
  3. C.qualitative multiplying power
  4. D.overwhelming multiplying power
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (overwhelming multiplying power)

Explanation

'Staggering' means astonishingly great, and 'capacity to reproduce' is multiplying power.

Open this question

Question 67

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The sales were lively, the upset price in each case was fair

  1. A.price that was the highest in the sales
  2. B.price that upset every other buyer
  3. C.highest amount for a bidder to offer
  4. D.lowest selling price of each item
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (lowest selling price of each item)

Explanation

At an auction the 'upset price' is the lowest price at which the seller will sell an item.

Open this question

Question 68

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The cleaner resigned from his job which he said had become a trivial round

  1. A.unrewarding
  2. B.too routine
  3. C.rather degrading
  4. D.unattractive
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (too routine)

Explanation

'The trivial round' means the same small, ordinary tasks done day after day. The cleaner felt his job had become too routine.

Open this question

Question 69

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: The island becomes more enchanting at night

  1. A.attractive
  2. B.delightful
  3. C.accommodating
  4. D.lively
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (attractive)

Explanation

Something 'enchanting' is charming and attractive.

Open this question

Question 70

Synonyms

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the word(s) or phrase in italics: For a long time, the robber defied police warnings as if he was invulnerable

  1. A.perfectly justifiable
  2. B.difficult to catch
  3. C.impossible to harm
  4. D.indifferent to danger
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (impossible to harm)

Explanation

'Invulnerable' means impossible to harm or wound.

Open this question

Question 71

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: He was ________ by the trickster

  1. A.assisted
  2. B.duped
  3. C.cajoled
  4. D.encouraged
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (duped)

Explanation

A trickster dupes (deceives) people.

Open this question

Question 72

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: When the soldiers saw that resistance was ________ they stopped fighting

  1. A.inadequate
  2. B.inefficient
  3. C.futile
  4. D.successful
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (futile)

Explanation

They stopped because fighting on was useless, i.e. futile.

Open this question

Question 73

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: You should read all the ________ carefully before you decide where to go on holiday

  1. A.brochures
  2. B.prospectuses
  3. C.tickets
  4. D.handouts
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (brochures)

Explanation

Holiday information comes in travel brochures.

Open this question

Question 74

Concord

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: The Emir and conqueror of the enemy territories ________ next week

  1. A.arrives
  2. B.are to arrive
  3. C.arrive
  4. D.are arriving
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (arrives)

Explanation

'The Emir and conqueror' is one person (only one 'The'), so the verb is singular: 'arrives'.

Open this question

Question 75

Question Tags

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: We ought to have visited the Governor ________?

  1. A.isn't it
  2. B.oughtn't we
  3. C.shouldn't we
  4. D.haven't we
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (shouldn't we)

Explanation

The question tag for 'ought to' is usually 'shouldn't we' (or 'oughtn't we'); of these the key accepts 'shouldn't we'.

Open this question

Question 76

Question Tags

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: He didn't sense Obi's presence in the room, did he? ________

  1. A.Yes, he did
  2. B.No, he did
  3. C.Yes, he didn't
  4. D.No, he didn't
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (No, he didn't)

Explanation

The answer agreeing that he did not sense it is 'No, he didn't'; 'yes' and 'no' must match the verb.

Open this question

Question 77

Conjunctions

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: You can stay here ________ as you are quiet

  1. A.as long
  2. B.so long
  3. C.in as much
  4. D.for as long
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (as long)

Explanation

'As long as' means on condition that.

Open this question

Question 78

Concord

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: Where ________ buses ________?

  1. A.does these/go
  2. B.do this/goes
  3. C.do these/go
  4. D.does these/goes
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (do these/go)

Explanation

'Buses' is plural, so it takes 'these' and 'do … go'.

Open this question

Question 79

Concord

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: Ours ________ based venture

  1. A.are a resource
  2. B.is a resource
  3. C.are resources
  4. D.is a resourced
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (is a resource)

Explanation

'Ours' here means our venture (singular), so 'is', and the compound adjective is 'resource-based'.

Open this question

Question 80

Tenses

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: Wale: Do you know where my chemistry book is? Tom: ________

  1. A.Toyin is with it
  2. B.It is with Toyin
  3. C.Toyin has it
  4. D.Toyin lent it
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (Toyin has it)

Explanation

'Toyin has it' answers where the book is, with the person as subject; 'Toyin is with it' reverses the meaning.

Open this question

Question 81

Prepositions

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: The accident occurred when the driver of the car ________ the lorry

  1. A.reversed towards
  2. B.reversed into
  3. C.reversed to
  4. D.reversed back into
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (reversed into)

Explanation

A car that hits something while going backwards 'reversed into' it; 'reversed back' repeats the idea.

Open this question

Question 82

Tenses

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: ________, I would have helped you

  1. A.Has it been that you asked me
  2. B.Had it been that you asked me
  3. C.If you have asked me
  4. D.If you had asked me
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (If you had asked me)

Explanation

'Would have helped' needs the past perfect in the if-clause: 'If you had asked me'.

Open this question

Question 83

Pronouns

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: Those men helped Dupe and ________

  1. A.myself
  2. B.I
  3. C.me
  4. D.we
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (me)

Explanation

'Dupe and me' is the object of 'helped', so the object pronoun 'me' is needed.

Open this question

Question 84

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: The principal warned the students not to take the ________

  1. A.law into their hands
  2. B.laws into their hands
  3. C.law into their own hands
  4. D.laws into their own hands
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (law into their own hands)

Explanation

The idiom is 'to take the law into one's own hands', meaning to punish someone oneself instead of going to the authorities.

Open this question

Question 85

Verb Forms

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: I had hardly ________ down to sleep when I heard the gunshot

  1. A.lay
  2. B.lied
  3. C.lain
  4. D.laid
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (lain)

Explanation

'Lie' (rest) has the past participle 'lain', which follows 'had'.

Open this question

Question 86

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: My shoes are worn out; I must see my ________

  1. A.grocer
  2. B.tanner
  3. C.cobbler
  4. D.hosier
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (cobbler)

Explanation

A cobbler repairs shoes.

Open this question

Question 87

Sentence Structure

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: Kunle was annoyed for arriving late ________ put him out of temper

  1. A.also Kemi's rather insolent manner
  2. B.also that Kemi's insolent manner
  3. C.and Kemi's rather insolent manner also
  4. D.and Kemi is also insolent which
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (and Kemi's rather insolent manner also)

Explanation

'And' joins the second cause, and 'Kemi's rather insolent manner also' is the subject of 'put him out of temper'.

Open this question

Question 88

Concord

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: A sterile range of mountains, broken at intervals by deep ravines ________ almost the whole of this small state

  1. A.enclose
  2. B.encloses
  3. C.cover
  4. D.covers
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (covers)

Explanation

The subject is singular ('a range'), so the verb needs -s. A mountain range spreads over land, so it 'covers' almost the whole state; 'encloses' would mean it goes round the state.

Open this question

Question 89

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: The protesters, unable to pull down the statue, ________ it from its fixtures.

  1. A.wrenched
  2. B.pushed
  3. C.towed
  4. D.burnt
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (wrenched)

Explanation

To 'wrench' something from its fixtures is to pull it off with a violent twist.

Open this question

Question 90

Pronouns

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: ________ been no official reaction to your request yet.

  1. A.There's
  2. B.Theres'
  3. C.Theirs'
  4. D.Their's
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (There's)

Explanation

'There's' is short for 'there has', which fits 'There has been no official reaction'.

Open this question

Question 91

Nouns and Determiners

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: His looks portend that ________ would be unpleasant

  1. A.some news
  2. B.a news
  3. C.news
  4. D.the news
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (the news)

Explanation

He is referring to particular news, so 'the news'; 'news' is uncountable, so 'a news' is wrong.

Open this question

Question 92

Tenses

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: By January 1999, I ________ ten years in the service of this institution.

  1. A.should have been
  2. B.would be
  3. C.can be
  4. D.must be
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (should have been)

Explanation

'By' + a future date needs a perfect form: 'I should (shall) have been ten years in service'.

Open this question

Question 93

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: The accused is optimistic of regaining his freedom because there is no witness to ________ his story

  1. A.correct
  2. B.challenge
  3. C.corroborate
  4. D.contradict
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (contradict)

Explanation

He hopes to be freed because nobody can contradict (dispute) his account.

Open this question

Question 94

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: 'Don't ________', said the leader, 'I want a decision now'

  1. A.prevaricate
  2. B.predicate
  3. C.precipitate
  4. D.be pejorative
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: A (prevaricate)

Explanation

To 'prevaricate' is to avoid giving a clear answer; the leader wants a decision now.

Open this question

Question 95

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: Most of the missing jewelry were ________ by the police

  1. A.found
  2. B.taken
  3. C.kept
  4. D.recovered
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (recovered)

Explanation

Stolen or missing property that the police get back is 'recovered'.

Open this question

Question 96

Concord

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: All the cattle on Lamidi's farm ________

  1. A.is tick-free
  2. B.are tick-free
  3. C.is ticks-free
  4. D.are ticks-free
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (are tick-free)

Explanation

'Cattle' is a plural noun, so 'are'; in a compound adjective the noun stays singular: 'tick-free'.

Open this question

Question 97

Question Tags

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: He saw the play and so ________

  1. A.was she
  2. B.had she
  3. C.should she
  4. D.did she
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: D (did she)

Explanation

The main verb 'saw' is past simple, so the short addition uses 'did': 'and so did she'.

Open this question

Question 98

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: The ________ of what she was cooking filled the whole compound

  1. A.fragrance
  2. B.scent
  3. C.aroma
  4. D.smell
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (aroma)

Explanation

'Aroma' is the word for a pleasant smell of food or cooking.

Open this question

Question 99

Vocabulary in Context

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: I hope I have not ________ too much on your time

  1. A.invaded
  2. B.encroached
  3. C.intruded
  4. D.trespassed
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (encroached)

Explanation

The idiom is 'to encroach on someone's time'.

Open this question

Question 100

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

Fill the gap with the most appropriate option: The exercise presented us with a lot of problems but later it was all ________ sailing

  1. A.plain
  2. B.smooth
  3. C.rough
  4. D.tough
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: B (smooth)

Explanation

'Smooth sailing' means easy progress after earlier difficulties.

Open this question