WAEC 2010 English Language · Question 20

While the Registrar considers the matter insignificant his deputy sees it as …

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. While the Registrar considers the matter insignificant his deputy sees it as.............

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

A.minute
B.crucial
C.compulsory
D.marvellous

Answer: B. crucial

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The underlined word is insignificant (unimportant, trivial). We need a word that:

Is opposite in meaning to insignificant.
Fits the gap grammatically and logically: "his deputy sees it as __."

Concept

This is an opposites-in-context question. The sentence uses "While..." to show contrast: the Registrar sees the matter as unimportant, while the deputy sees it as the opposite, which is important.

Checking each option

A. minute: Means extremely small (or a unit of time). It is close to insignificant, so it is a synonym, not an opposite. ✗
B. crucial: Means extremely important or decisive. It is the opposite of insignificant and fits the sentence: "his deputy sees it as crucial." ✓
C. compulsory: Means required or obligatory. It is not the opposite of insignificant, because a matter can be required without being important. ✗
D. marvellous: Means wonderful. It describes quality, not importance, and does not fit the context. ✗

Answer

The Registrar considers the matter insignificant, while his deputy sees it as crucial.

Tip

In "opposite in meaning" questions, first check that the option is not a synonym, since examiners often include one as a trap (here, minute). Then test the option in the sentence. Contrast words like while, but and whereas signal that an opposite idea is needed.

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