NECO 2005 English Language · Question 27

The eagerness with which the passenger takes instructions shows that he will perform his duties without …

Question

Choose from the options lettered A - E the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word or expression and at the same time fill in the gap. The eagerness with which the passenger takes instructions shows that he will perform his duties without___________

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

A.complaint
B.disrespect
C.hindrance
D.protesting
E.reluctance

Answer: E. reluctance

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The sentence says the passenger takes instructions with eagerness. The underlined word is "eagerness," and we need a word that fills the gap so the sentence makes sense. The word should also be most nearly opposite in meaning to "eagerness."

Explain the concept

This is an antonym-in-context question. Two conditions must both be met:

The word must be the opposite of "eagerness."
It must fit grammatically after "without."

Solution

Eagerness means enthusiasm or willingness to do something.
The opposite of eagerness is reluctance, which means unwillingness or hesitation.

Check each option:

A. complaint: this is about grumbling, not the direct opposite of eagerness.
B. disrespect: this is about attitude toward authority, not willingness.
C. hindrance: this means an obstacle, which is unrelated.
D. protesting: this is close, but it is an action. It is not the direct antonym of eagerness.
E. reluctance: this is the direct antonym of eagerness, and it fits the sentence.

Read it back: "The eagerness with which the passenger takes instructions shows that he will perform his duties without reluctance." The sentence makes sense.

Answer: E

Exam tip

In "opposite in meaning and fill the gap" questions, first find the exact antonym of the key word (eager ↔ reluctant). Then pick the option that is a noun or form that fits the blank. Words like "complaint" or "protesting" are related to reluctance, but they are not true opposites. Choose the closest match.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.