Answer the following question below and choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase…

Step 1: Analyze the question You are asked to find the option closest in meaning to the word "extempore" in the sentence: The student's union leader delivered his speech extempore.

Step 2: Explain the concept "Extempore" (adverb/adjective) means done or spoken without preparation or notes, improvised on the spot. It comes from the Latin ex tempore, meaning "out of the time" (that is, at the moment).

Common synonyms: impromptu, ad-lib, unrehearsed, spontaneous, off the cuff, off the top of one's head.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. out-of-hand: This means uncontrollable (e.g., "the situation got out of hand") or sometimes "immediately/without consideration" (e.g., "rejected out of hand"). It does not mean "unprepared," so it does not fit.
• B. off the cuff: This idiom means spontaneously, without preparation. It matches "extempore" exactly.
• C. accurately: This is about correctness, not preparation. It does not fit.
• D. courageously: This is about bravery, not preparation. It does not fit.

Step 4: Answer The leader spoke without preparation, so he spoke off the cuff.

Step 5: Exam tip Remember the idiom: "Off the cuff" comes from the idea of speakers jotting quick notes on their shirt cuffs. Also learn the group of words that mean "unprepared": extempore, impromptu, ad-lib, off the cuff, spontaneous. JAMB often tests these as synonyms. Beware of "out of hand," which looks similar in form but has a different meaning.