JAMB 2013 English Language · Question 27

laud — Choose the option that has same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter (s) underlined

Question

Choose the option that has same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter (s) underlined. laud

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

A.lathe
B.core
C.lavatory
D.loud

Answer: B. core

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The word "laud" has the underlined letters "au", which make the long vowel /ɔː/ (as in "law" or "ought"). We need the option that has the same vowel sound.

Concept: In English, "au" often gives /ɔː/, as in laud, fraud, cause, haul. Note that "ou" in "loud" is a different sound, the diphthong /aʊ/.

Solution: Let's check each option.

A. lathe has the sound /eɪ/ (as in "lay"). It is not a match.
B. core is pronounced /kɔː/. The vowel is /ɔː/, a match.
C. lavatory has the sound /æ/ (as in "cat") in the first syllable. It is not a match.
D. loud has the diphthong /aʊ/ (as in "now"). It is not a match.

Answer: B. core. It has the same /ɔː/ vowel as "laud" (/lɔːd/).

Tip: Watch out for the trap in option D. "Loud" looks similar to "laud" on paper, but the sounds are different. In sound questions, always go by pronunciation and not spelling. Try saying the words aloud: "laud" rhymes with "broad", and "core" rhymes with "door".

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.