JAMB 2025 English Language · Question 137

For this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence. The chairman…

Question

For this question, select the option that best explains the information conveyed in the sentence.  The chairman of the association tells his members not to throw in the towel.

  1. A.They should not be tired
  2. B.They are not to give up
  3. C.They should be ready for a trip
  4. D.They should expect good outcomes

Answer: B. They are not to give up

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The sentence uses an idiom: "throw in the towel." You are asked to choose the option that best explains what the chairman is telling his members.

Step 2: Explain the concept An idiom is an expression whose meaning is not found in the literal meaning of its words. "Throw in the towel" comes from boxing. A boxer's corner would throw a towel into the ring to show that their fighter was giving up the fight. So the idiom means to surrender, quit, or give up.

Step 3: Apply it to the sentence "The chairman tells his members not to throw in the towel" means he is telling them not to give up or quit. He is encouraging them to keep going despite difficulties.

Step 4: Check the options

  • A. They should not be tired: This is a literal guess about tiredness. Giving up is not the same as being tired.
  • B. They are not to give up: This matches the idiom exactly.
  • C. They should be ready for a trip: Nothing in the idiom suggests travel.
  • D. They should expect good outcomes: This is about optimism, not about refusing to quit.

Answer: B

Tip: When you meet an idiom in JAMB English, do not translate it word for word. Ask yourself what situation the idiom comes from. Here, a towel thrown into a boxing ring means surrender. Related idioms to learn:

  • Throw in the sponge means the same thing.
  • Hang in there means to persevere.
  • Bite the bullet means to face a difficult situation bravely.

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