WAEC 2013 English Language · Question 96

In the sentence below, there is one underlined word and one gap. From the list of words lettered A to D…

Question

In the sentence below, there is one underlined word and one gap. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will, at the same time correctly fill the gap in the sentence. Mary's explanation was explicit but mine was .....

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

A.long
B.winding
C.vague
D.irrelevant

Answer: C. vague

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The underlined word is "explicit". You need a word that (1) is opposite in meaning and (2) fits the gap in the sentence: "Mary's explanation was explicit but mine was ____."

Explain the concept: Explicit means clearly stated, leaving no room for confusion or doubt. Its antonym is a word meaning unclear, indirect, or not clearly expressed.

Step-by-step solution:

A. long: Length has nothing to do with clarity, so it is not an opposite of "explicit."
B. winding: This describes a path or a roundabout, rambling manner. It is loosely related, but it does not mean the opposite of "explicit."
C. vague: This means unclear or imprecise, which is the direct opposite of "explicit." It also fits the sentence: "Mary's explanation was explicit but mine was vague."
D. irrelevant: This means not related to the topic. An explanation can be clear and still irrelevant, so it is not the opposite.

Answer: C. vague

Tip: In antonym-with-gap questions, check both conditions: the word must be opposite in meaning and also fit the sentence. Memorize common pairs such as explicit ↔ vague, obscure ↔ clear, and ambiguous ↔ precise.

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