JAMB 2024 English Language · Question 170
Choose the option that best completes the gap(s) Ade was told to finish the assignment ____ time.
Options
- A.on
- B.with
- C.at
- D.by
Answer: A. on
Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key
1. Analyze the question The sentence is: "Ade was told to finish the assignment ____ time." We need the preposition that forms a correct, natural phrase with "time."
2. Explain the concept Several English phrases use "time" with different prepositions, and each has a different meaning:
- on time means punctually, at the scheduled moment, not late.
- in time means with enough time to spare, before it is too late.
- at time(s) is not used alone. We say "at times" (sometimes) or "at the time" (then).
- by time is not a standard phrase. We say "by the time" (a conjunction) instead.
- with time is only used in the sense of "as time passes," as in "with time, you will understand."
3. Step-by-step solution
- The instruction is to finish the assignment according to the deadline, meaning punctually.
- Option A, "on time," fits: "Ade was told to finish the assignment on time."
- Option B, "with time," does not fit the meaning of a deadline.
- Option C, "at time," is ungrammatical here.
- Option D, "by time," is incomplete. It would need "by the time" followed by a clause.
4. Answer The correct option is A. on.
5. Tip Remember: "On time" = punctual, "In time" = just before it's too late. For example: "The bus left on time, and we reached the airport in time for our flight." JAMB often tests this pair, so watch for it.
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