JAMB 2014 English Language · Question 12

Gnash. — Choose the option that has the same consonant sound as the one represented by the letter underlined

Question

Choose the option that has the same consonant sound as the one represented by the letter underlined. Gnash.

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

A.Ring.
B.Forge.
C.New.
D.King.

Answer: C. New.

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question The underlined letter isn't visible, but in "gnash" the usual underlined letter is n (the "gn" cluster). The silent g leaves the sound /n/. So we need the word whose consonant sound matches the /n/ in gnash: /næʃ/.

Explain the concept In words beginning with "gn", the g is silent (gnat, gnaw, gnome, gnash). The remaining sound is a plain /n/.

Check each option

A. Ring /rɪŋ/: the "ng" is the velar nasal /ŋ/, not /n/.
B. Forge /fɔːdʒ/: ends in /dʒ/. No /n/ sound.
C. New /njuː/: begins with the alveolar nasal /n/. This matches.
D. King /kɪŋ/: the "ng" is /ŋ/, not /n/.

Answer The sound /n/ in "gnash" matches the /n/ in "new", which is option C.

Tip Watch out for "ng" at the end of a word: it's usually /ŋ/ (ring, king, sing), a different sound from /n/. For "gn" at the start, always drop the g and say /n/. Other silent-letter starters to remember: kn (knife), wr (write), ps (psychology).

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