JAMB 2011 English Language · Question 74

His wife hates his garrulous attitude?

Question

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word. His wife hates his garrulous attitude?

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

A.outspoken
B.unfriendly
C.reticent
D.thoughtful

Answer: C. reticent

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question We need the word opposite in meaning to "garrulous" (an antonym question).

Step 2: Explain the concept "Garrulous" means talkative, especially about trivial things; given to excessive chatter. Its opposite will describe someone who speaks little or keeps quiet.

Step 3: Check each option

A. outspoken: This means frank and open in speech. It is not the opposite of talkative; a person can be outspoken and talkative at once.
B. unfriendly: This describes attitude toward others, not how much someone talks.
C. reticent: This means reserved, uncommunicative, and not revealing thoughts freely. It is the direct opposite of garrulous.
D. thoughtful: This means considerate or deep in thought. It does not relate to the amount of talking.

Step 4: Answer The opposite of "garrulous" is reticent, which is option C.

Tip: Link the words to sounds or roots. "Garrulous" sounds like "gargle", which suggests noise and chatter. "Reticent" is related to "reticence", meaning keeping quiet. Other antonyms of garrulous that often appear in exams are taciturn, laconic, and reserved. Learn them together as a group.

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