WAEC 2013 English Language · Question 25

Maxwell usually makes obnoxious remarks.

Question

From the words lettered A to D below,choose the word or groups of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. Maxwell usually makes obnoxious remarks.

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

A.prudent
B.offensive
C.unpredictable
D.queer

Answer: B. offensive

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word closest in meaning to obnoxious in the sentence "Maxwell usually makes obnoxious remarks."

Explain the concept: Obnoxious is an adjective meaning extremely unpleasant, objectionable, or offensive. It comes from the Latin obnoxius, meaning "exposed to harm." In everyday use, we describe people, behaviour, or comments as obnoxious when they annoy or upset others.

Solution, option by option:

A. prudent: means wise and careful. This is almost the opposite of obnoxious, so it is wrong.
B. offensive: means causing displeasure, annoyance, or insult. Obnoxious remarks are exactly those that upset or insult people. This fits.
C. unpredictable: means not easy to foresee. It says nothing about the remarks being unpleasant, so it is wrong.
D. queer: means strange or odd. Remarks can be strange without being unpleasant, so it does not capture the meaning.

Answer: The best match is B. offensive.

Tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, put each option into the sentence and ask, "Does the sentence keep the same meaning?" "Maxwell usually makes offensive remarks" keeps the meaning, while the other options change it. Also remember that obnoxious goes with words like offensive, unpleasant, objectionable, and detestable. This is a common WASSCE and JAMB vocabulary word, so add it to your list.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.