JAMB 2011 English Language · Question 89

As a prudent businessman, Adeyi does not leave anything to chance.

Question

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word. As a prudent businessman, Adeyi does not leave anything to chance.

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

A.frugal
B.shrewd
C.careless
D.unsuccessful

Answer: C. careless

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

1. Analyze the question The underlined word is prudent. You need the word that is opposite in meaning (an antonym).

2. Explain the concept Prudent means careful, wise, and sensible, especially about planning and avoiding risks. Someone prudent thinks ahead and does not act rashly. The sentence supports this: "does not leave anything to chance" shows careful planning.

3. Solution: check each option

A. frugal: thrifty, careful with money. This is close to prudent, so it is not an opposite.
B. shrewd: sharp, clever in judgment. This is a synonym, not an antonym.
C. careless: not taking care, not thinking ahead. This is the direct opposite of prudent.
D. unsuccessful: failing to achieve goals. This is not about carefulness. A prudent person could even be unsuccessful, so it is not an antonym.

4. Answer The correct option is C. careless.

5. Tip In antonym questions, first find the meaning of the word from the sentence's context, then eliminate the synonyms. Here, A and B are "same-direction" words, so they are traps. Remember: prudent = prudence = careful judgment, opposite = careless, reckless, rash, imprudent.

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