JAMB 2016 English Language · Question 68

For this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the question. Jumai will do well if she was given a fair crack of the whip.

Options

A.She would do well if she was given a fair whip
B.She would excel if she used the whip well
C.She would do well if she was given equal opportunity
D.She would do well if she was made to cry

Answer: C. She would do well if she was given equal opportunity

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The sentence uses the idiom "a fair crack of the whip." You are asked to pick the option that best explains its meaning.

Explain the concept: "A fair crack of the whip" means a fair chance or opportunity to take part in or do something, especially an equal opportunity like the one others get. It has nothing to do with literal whipping or punishment.

Step-by-step solution:

Option A: "a fair whip." This takes the idiom literally and ignores its figurative meaning. It is wrong.
Option B: "used the whip well." This is also literal, and it suggests Jumai is the one using the whip. It is wrong.
Option C: "equal opportunity." This matches the idiom: Jumai will do well if she is given a fair chance. It is correct.
Option D: "made to cry." This suggests punishment, which is the opposite of the idiom's meaning. It is wrong.

Answer: The meaning is "a fair opportunity," so the correct option is C.

Exam tip: When an idiom appears in JAMB English, never take the words literally. Ask what the whole phrase means in everyday use. Similar idioms are "a level playing field" and "a fair deal". Eliminating the literal options (A, B and D here) usually leaves the right answer.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.