WAEC 2014 English Language · Question 59

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

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. While some people ......... jollof rice, others enjoy it.

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

A.rebuff
B.abhor
C.ignore
D.condemn

Answer: B. abhor

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The sentence is: "While some people ......... jollof rice, others enjoy it."

The underlined word isn't shown in your text. It is most likely "enjoy" (or possibly "love" or "like"). The question asks for a word that:

Is opposite in meaning to the underlined word, and
Fits the gap grammatically and logically.

Explain the concept

This is a lexis and structure question that tests antonyms. The word "While" signals contrast. One group does one thing and "others" do the opposite. So the gap needs a word that is the opposite of "enjoy", meaning strong dislike.

Solution: test each option

A. rebuff means to reject someone or something, such as an offer or advance. It is not usually used for disliking food, and it is not a true opposite of "enjoy."
B. abhor means to hate or detest strongly. It is the direct opposite of "enjoy/love," and "some people abhor jollof rice" makes sense.
C. ignore means to pay no attention. That is neutral and not the opposite of enjoying.
D. condemn means to express strong disapproval, usually of actions or people. It is not natural with food and is not a true antonym of "enjoy."

Answer: B. abhor

"Some people abhor jollof rice, others enjoy it" is correct in both meaning and grammar.

Tip: When you see "While... others...", look for the contrast. Ask yourself, "What is the exact opposite feeling?" Then check that the word collocates naturally with the object in the sentence. You abhor, detest or hate food, but you don't normally "condemn" or "rebuff" it.

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