JAMB 2011 English Language · Question 73

'I do not trust him', he said, in a rare moment of candour?

Question

Choose the word that is opposite in meaning to the underlined word. 'I do not trust him', he said, in a rare moment of candour?

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

A.reproach
B.dishonesty
C.frankness
D.fairness

Answer: B. dishonesty

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The underlined word is candour, and we need its opposite (antonym).

Explain the concept: Candour means honesty, openness, and frankness in speech. It is the quality of saying exactly what you think without hiding anything. So its antonym should mean dishonesty, deceit, or insincerity.

Go through the options:

A. reproach means blame or disapproval. It is not the opposite of candour.
B. dishonesty means a lack of truthfulness. This is the direct opposite of candour.
C. frankness is a synonym of candour, not an antonym. This is the trap option.
D. fairness means being just or impartial. It is unrelated to candour.

Answer: The opposite of candour is dishonesty, which is option B.

Tip: In "opposite in meaning" questions, watch out for synonyms placed among the options (like frankness here). Always check whether you are looking for a synonym or an antonym before you choose. Related words to remember: candid means frank and honest, and its opposite is evasive or deceitful.

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