JAMB 2024 English Language · Question 20

The cleaner admires the girls for their neatness.

Question

Choose the option opposite in meaning to the word or phrase underlined. The cleaner admires the girls for their neatness.

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

A.scorns
B.accepts
C.sanctions
D.regards

Answer: A. scorns

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is "admires" in the sentence: The cleaner admires the girls for their neatness. We need the word that is opposite in meaning (an antonym).

Step 2: Understand the concept "Admire" means to regard someone or something with respect, approval, or pleasure. Its opposite will be a word that shows disrespect or disapproval.

Step 3: Check each option

A. scorns: to treat with contempt or disdain. This is the direct opposite of admiring. ✔
B. accepts: to receive or agree to something. It is not the opposite of admire.
C. sanctions: this can mean to approve or permit (or, as a noun, to penalise). It is not a clear antonym of "admires".
D. regards: to look at or consider. This is neutral and can even be close in meaning to "admire" (as in "regarded highly").

Step 4: Answer "Scorns" expresses contempt, while "admires" expresses respect and approval, so they are opposites.

Tip: In antonym questions, first decide whether the underlined word is positive or negative. "Admire" is positive, so look for the option with a clearly negative feeling (scorn, despise, disdain). Eliminate neutral words like "regards" and "accepts" first.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.