JAMB 2010 English Language · Question 21

Aisha seems to feel ambivalent about her future?

Question

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word(s). Aisha seems to feel ambivalent about her future?

In the original paper part of this question is underlined. The underline isn't shown here: see the explanation below.

  1. A.decisive
  2. B.anxious
  3. C.ambitious
  4. D.inconsiderate

Answer: A. decisive

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question You are asked for the word opposite in meaning to ambivalent.

Step 2: Explain the concept Ambivalent means having mixed or conflicting feelings about something, or being unable to make up your mind. It comes from "ambi-" (both) and "valent" (strength or feeling), so the person is pulled in two directions at once.

Examples:

  • "He was ambivalent about moving to Abuja." (part of him wanted to go, part did not)

The opposite is therefore someone who is clear-minded, firm, and certain: decisive.

Step 3: Test each option

  • A. decisive: firm, settled, having made up one's mind. This is the direct opposite of being torn or uncertain. ✔
  • B. anxious: worried or nervous. A person can be ambivalent and anxious at the same time, so it is not an opposite.
  • C. ambitious: eager to achieve something. It is about drive, not about certainty of feeling, so it is not the opposite.
  • D. inconsiderate: not thinking about others. It has no connection to indecision.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. decisive.

Step 5: Exam tip Break the word down: "ambi-" means both (as in ambidextrous, ambiguous). If someone is pulled both ways, they are undecided, so the opposite is decisive, certain, or resolute. In opposite-meaning questions, always find the meaning first, then look for its reverse.

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