WAEC 2012 English Language · Question 51

From the words lettered A to D below each of the following sentences, choose the word that is nearest in…

Question

From the words lettered A to D below each of the following sentences, choose the word that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word Their father is so vigilant that it is not possible for his children to play truant

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

A.intelligent
B.watchful
C.rigid
D.concerned

Answer: B. watchful

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question The underlined word is "vigilant" (the underline didn't show in the text, but the sentence makes it clear). We need the option closest in meaning.

Explain the concept Vigilant (adjective) means keeping careful watch for possible danger or trouble; alert and attentive. Its noun form is vigilance, as in a "vigilance committee" or "vigilante group" that keeps watch over a community.

Step-by-step solution The sentence says the father is so vigilant that his children cannot play truant (skip school). This means he watches them so closely that they cannot escape.

Check each option:

A. intelligent: means clever. A father can be clever without being watchful, so this is wrong.
B. watchful: means observant and alert. This matches vigilant exactly.
C. rigid: means stiff or inflexible. This describes strictness, not watching.
D. concerned: means worried or caring. It is close in feeling, but it doesn't capture the idea of keeping watch.

Correct answer: B. watchful

Exam tip Link the word to its family: vigilant → vigil (staying awake to watch, like a night vigil) → vigilante. Anything about "watching" or "alertness" points to watchful. Also, when you meet a word you don't know, put it back into the sentence and test each option to see which one fits the context.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.