WAEC 2011 English Language · Question 66

My neighbour lives a humdrum life.

Question

From the words or group of words lettered A to D, below each of the following sentences, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. My neighbour lives a humdrum life.

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

A.busy
B.careless
C.monotonous
D.humble

Answer: C. monotonous

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question You need the word closest in meaning to humdrum as used in "My neighbour lives a humdrum life."

Step 2: Explain the concept Humdrum is an adjective meaning dull, boring, lacking excitement or variety. It describes a routine, ordinary existence where the same things happen day after day.

Step 3: Test each option

A. busy: A humdrum life is not necessarily full of activity. Busy means having much to do, which is a different idea.
B. careless: This describes a lack of care or attention. It has no link to routine or boredom.
C. monotonous: This means repetitive, unchanging and dull. It matches humdrum very closely.
D. humble: This means modest or lowly in status. A person can be humble without having a dull, repetitive life.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is C. monotonous.

Tip: Think of "hum" and "drum": a steady, repeating sound with no change. That sound pattern is the idea of monotony. Related words to remember: mundane, tedious, boring, routine, dull.

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