Why is Jos described as "acrobatic" in Ikenna's speech?

Analyzing the question

This is a comprehension question about a word used figuratively. You are asked why Jos is called "acrobatic" in Ikenna's speech. I don't have the passage itself, so I'm working from what the options suggest and what we know about Jos.

The concept

When a writer describes a place with a word normally used for people or actions, such as "acrobatic," they are using a descriptive or figurative image. An acrobat twists, balances, leaps and moves in unusual shapes. So a place described as "acrobatic" is usually one with a physical appearance that looks like it is balancing, twisting or perched.

Working through the options

• A. Jos native dancers: Dancing is not the same as acrobatics, and the description is of the place, not its performers.
• B. Terrain and rock formations: Jos is famous for the Jos Plateau, with its rocky hills and balancing rock formations that look as if they are perched in gravity-defying positions. This fits the image of an "acrobatic" landscape perfectly.
• C. People perform circus tricks: This is a literal reading and has no link to Jos's known character.
• D. Students went rock climbing: This is a specific activity, not a general description of Jos. It also shifts the focus from the place to the students.

Answer

The word "acrobatic" is describing the land itself: its uneven terrain and balancing rocks. The correct option is B.

Note that I couldn't see Ikenna's full speech, so my reasoning relies on the options and on what Jos is known for. If the passage clearly says otherwise, go with the passage.

Exam tip

In comprehension questions on figurative words, ask: "What is being described, and which quality of the word fits it?" Choose the option that links the word's meaning to the thing being described, and avoid options that take the word literally.