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

Analyze the question: The underlined word is "derogatory" (the underline is lost in the text, but the sentence makes it clear: "derogatory remark about the principal"). We need the option closest in meaning.

Explain the concept: Derogatory means showing a lack of respect, insulting, or belittling. A derogatory remark is one that criticises or disparages someone in a disrespectful way.

Step-by-step solution:

• A. complimentary: means praising. This is the opposite of derogatory, so it is wrong.
• B. unsavoury: means unpleasant, distasteful, or morally offensive. An insulting remark about a principal is distasteful and offensive, so this is the closest in meaning.
• C. unwarranted: means not justified. A remark can be unwarranted without being insulting, so it does not capture the sense of disrespect.
• D. lack lustre: means dull and uninspiring. This has no connection to insult.

(If the underlined word was instead "rusticated", which means suspended or sent away from school, none of the options would fit. This confirms that "derogatory" is the intended word.)

Answer: B. unsavoury.

Tip: In "closest meaning" questions, first eliminate the opposite (here, "complimentary"), then choose the option that matches the tone of the sentence. The prefix "de-" plus "rogare" (Latin, to ask or appeal) is not much help here, but remember that derogatory = disparaging, insulting, and words like disparaging, offensive, insulting are common JAMB synonyms.