JAMB 2014 English Language · Question 46

Joke gave Muhammad a jaunty smile.

Question

Choose the option nearest in meaning to the underlined word or phrase. Joke gave Muhammad a jaunty smile.

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

A.A cheerful.
B.A discouraging.
C.An inviting.
D.A frightful.

Answer: A. A cheerful.

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The word being tested is "jaunty" in the sentence "Joke gave Muhammad a jaunty smile." We need the option closest in meaning to it.

Step 2: Explain the concept "Jaunty" is an adjective meaning lively, cheerful, and self-confident in manner. It describes someone who looks carefree and upbeat. Example: He walked down the road with a jaunty step.

Step 3: Test each option

A. Cheerful: Matches "jaunty" closely, since both mean happy, lively, and carefree.
B. Discouraging: This means causing a loss of hope, which is the opposite mood.
C. Inviting: This means attractive or welcoming. It is close in feel, but it describes how appealing something is, not the lively, confident cheerfulness of "jaunty."
D. Frightful: This means scary or dreadful, so it does not fit a smile in a positive way.

Step 4: Answer The option nearest in meaning to "jaunty" is A. cheerful.

Exam tip: For vocabulary questions, first decide whether the word is positive or negative. "Jaunty" is positive, which eliminates B and D immediately. Then pick the option with the closest specific meaning. A memory trick: Jaunty = Jolly and Upbeat.

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