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

Analyze the question: You are asked to choose the meaning that best matches "His chances of passing are very slim."

Explain the concept: The word "slim" used about chances means small or remote. If chances are slim, passing is still possible, but unlikely. This is a question about degrees of certainty (modality):

• will pass / will not pass express complete certainty.
• may not pass expresses a strong possibility of failure without being absolute.
• ought to pass expresses expectation of success, which is the opposite of the sentence.

Step-by-step solution:

1. "Very slim chances of passing" means passing is unlikely.
2. Option A (will pass) is the opposite of the sentence, so it is wrong.
3. Option D (ought to pass) suggests he is expected to succeed, so it is also wrong.
4. Option B (will not pass) is too definite. Slim chances are not zero chances, so he might still pass.
5. Option C (may not pass) fits best, because it shows he is likely to fail while leaving a small possibility that he passes.

Answer: C. may not pass

Exam tip: Watch for absolute words such as will, must and never in the options. When the sentence uses a hedge such as "slim," "likely," or "probably," the correct option usually has a softer modal like may or might.