WAEC 2010 English Language · Question 67

After each of the following sentences, a list of possible interpretations of the sentence is given. Choose the…

Question

After each of the following sentences, a list of possible interpretations of the sentence is given. Choose the interpretation that you consider most appropriate for each sentence. Some candidates takes examinations in their stride.This means that they

A.prepare hard for them
B.do not worry about them
C.find them insurmountable
D.are familiar with them

Answer: B. do not worry about them

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The question tests your understanding of the idiom "take something in one's stride."

Explain the concept: To "take something in your stride" means to deal with a difficult or stressful situation calmly, without being upset or worried by it. It suggests staying composed and handling the situation with ease.

Step-by-step solution:

A. prepare hard for them: The idiom says nothing about preparation. It is about attitude, not effort. ❌
B. do not worry about them: This matches the meaning, since someone who takes exams in their stride stays calm and unbothered. ✅
C. find them insurmountable: This is the opposite. "Insurmountable" means impossible to overcome. ❌
D. are familiar with them: Familiarity may help, but the idiom describes being calm, not being experienced. ❌

Answer: The sentence means that some candidates handle exams calmly and do not worry about them.

Tip: For idiom questions, ask whether the phrase describes an attitude (calm, worried, eager) or an action (preparing, studying). "Take in one's stride" always describes an attitude of calm acceptance. Related idioms to remember: "keep a cool head" and "take it easy."

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.