JAMB 2010 English Language · Question 23

The law is often tardy in reacting to changing attitude?

Question

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined word(s). The law is often tardy in reacting to changing attitude?

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

A.quick
B.slow
C.exclusive
D.generous

Answer: B. slow

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word closest in meaning to "tardy" in the sentence: "The law is often tardy in reacting to changing attitudes."

Explain the concept: "Tardy" is an adjective meaning slow or late, or delayed in doing something. You may know it from school, where a student who comes late is called "tardy." It comes from the Latin tardus, meaning slow.

Solve step by step:

Look at the context. The law reacts to changing attitudes. The usual complaint is that laws take time to catch up with society.
Test each option in the sentence: • A. quick: "The law is often quick in reacting..." This is the opposite of "tardy" (an antonym), so it is wrong. • B. slow: "The law is often slow in reacting..." This fits both the meaning and the context. • C. exclusive: This means limited to a few people. It has nothing to do with speed, so it is wrong. • D. generous: This means giving freely. It does not fit, so it is wrong.

Answer: The word nearest in meaning to "tardy" is slow, which is option B.

Exam tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, JAMB often includes the opposite word (here, "quick") as a trap. Always check that you are not picking an antonym. Remember: Tardy = Tortoise-like = Slow.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.