WAEC 2014 English Language · Question 76

buy — choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined

Question

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. buy

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

A.supper
B.bang
C.coy
D.tie

Answer: D. tie

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: The word "buy" is pronounced /baɪ/. The vowel sound is the diphthong /aɪ/ (as in "my"). We need the option with the same sound.

Explain the concept: Different spellings can give the same vowel sound. In "buy," the letters "uy" make the /aɪ/ sound. Other spellings of /aɪ/ include:

"ie" as in tie, die, lie
"y" as in my, cry
"igh" as in high, night
"i-e" as in time, bike

Solution: Check each option.

A. supper /ˈsʌpə/: the vowel is /ʌ/. This does not match.
B. bang /bæŋ/: the vowel is /æ/. This does not match.
C. coy /kɔɪ/: the vowel is /ɔɪ/. It also ends in a glide to /ɪ/, so it can look similar, but it is a different diphthong. This does not match.
D. tie /taɪ/: the vowel is /aɪ/. This matches "buy" /baɪ/.

Answer: D.

Tip: Do not be fooled by "coy." Both /aɪ/ and /ɔɪ/ end with an "ee"-like glide, but they start differently. "Buy" starts with an open "ah" sound, while "coy" starts with a rounded "aw" sound. Say each word slowly and listen to where it begins. Also remember that "buy," "bye," and "by" are homophones, so you can swap in "by" to check the sound.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.