The driver was short of petrol, so he ........ down the road with the engine switched off

Analyze the question The sentence describes a driver who is low on fuel and moves down the road with the engine off. We need the verb that best describes a vehicle moving along under its own momentum, without engine power.

Explain the concept "Coast" has a specific meaning for vehicles: to move forward without using engine power, usually downhill or on momentum. Drivers coast to save fuel or when they have none.

Examine the options

• A. glided: This means to move smoothly and effortlessly. It is used for birds, planes, and skaters. It is not the standard word for a car moving without its engine.
• B. coasted: This is the exact term for a vehicle moving without engine power. It fits perfectly.
• C. wheeled: This means to push or carry something on wheels, or to turn around. It doesn't fit here.
• D. taxied: This is used for an aircraft moving on the ground before takeoff or after landing. It is not used for cars.

Solution "The driver was short of petrol, so he coasted down the road with the engine switched off."

The phrase "engine switched off" points to coasting, and "short of petrol" gives the reason for it.

Tip Remember: "coast" = move on momentum, no engine power. In the same way, "taxi" goes with aeroplanes and "glide" goes with birds and gliders. In JAMB lexis questions, look for the word that has a specific technical meaning in the context, not just a general one.