WAEC 2010 English Language · Question 15

The man's first wife is loyal while second is …

Question

In each of the following sentences, there is one word underlined and one gap. From the list of words lettered A - D, choose the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will, at the same time, correctly fill the gap in the sentences. The man's first wife is loyal while second is............

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

  1. A.unfaithful
  2. B.unkind
  3. C.selfish
  4. D.hostile

Answer: A. unfaithful

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The question asks for the word that is (1) most nearly opposite in meaning to the word "loyal" and (2) fits the gap in the sentence: "The man's first wife is loyal while the second is ............"

Explain the concept

This is an antonym-in-context question. "Loyal" means faithful, devoted, and steadfast in allegiance to a person or cause. The word "while" signals contrast, so the gap needs a word that is the direct opposite of "loyal."

Solution

Check each option against "loyal":

  • A. unfaithful: means disloyal and not true to a person. This is the direct opposite of loyal, and it fits the sentence well.
  • B. unkind: this is about a lack of kindness. A person can be loyal and still unkind, so it is not an opposite.
  • C. selfish: this is about putting yourself first. It is not the direct opposite of loyal.
  • D. hostile: means unfriendly or antagonistic. It is not the opposite of loyalty.

Completed sentence: "The man's first wife is loyal while the second is unfaithful."

Answer: A (unfaithful)

Tip: In antonym questions, watch for contrast words like while, but, and whereas. They tell you the missing word must be the opposite of the underlined word. Then pick the option that matches the exact quality (loyalty → faithfulness), not just a general negative trait such as unkind or selfish.

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