JAMB 2012 English Language · Question 78

Answer the following question below and choose the option opposite in meaning to the underlined word or phrase in. Bola always looks sober

Options

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

A.excited
B.serious
C.worried
D.hapless

Answer: A. excited

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: You are asked for the word opposite in meaning to "sober" in the sentence "Bola always looks sober."

Explain the concept: "Sober" has a few meanings, depending on context:

Not drunk
Serious, calm, solemn, subdued (the meaning used when describing how someone looks)

Since the sentence says Bola "looks sober" (that is, she appears calm, serious, and subdued), we need the word that means the opposite: lively, cheerful, or animated.

Step-by-step solution:

Identify the meaning of "sober" in context: serious, calm, solemn.
Check each option: • A. excited: lively, animated, the opposite of calm and subdued. ✔ • B. serious: this is a synonym of sober, not an opposite. ✘ • C. worried: this is related to being solemn or troubled, not an opposite. ✘ • D. hapless: means unlucky, which has no connection to the opposite of sober. ✘

Answer: The opposite of "sober" here is excited, which is option A.

Tip: In "opposite meaning" questions, first eliminate the synonyms. Here, "serious" is the trap because it is the same meaning as "sober". Always check whether an option matches the word or contradicts it.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.