WAEC 2015 English Language · Question 5
Children often behave badly out of ignorance
Question
From the words lettered A to D below each of the following sentences, choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. Children often behave badly out of ignorance
In the original paper part of this question is underlined. The underline isn't shown here: see the explanation below.
- A.illiteracy
- B.inexperience
- C.unfamiliarity
- D.simplicity
Answer: B. inexperience
Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key
Analyze the question: The underlined word is "ignorance" (the sentence says "Children often behave badly out of ignorance"). We need the word closest in meaning in this context.
Explain the concept: "Ignorance" means a lack of knowledge, awareness, or information. The right synonym depends on context. Here we are talking about children, who behave badly because they don't yet know better, not because they cannot read or write.
Step-by-step solution:
- A. illiteracy: This means inability to read and write. It is too narrow and refers to formal education, so it doesn't fit children's misbehaviour.
- B. inexperience: This means lack of experience or knowledge gained through living and doing things. Children haven't yet learned what is right or acceptable, so this fits well.
- C. unfamiliarity: This means not being acquainted with a particular thing. It is too specific and doesn't capture a general lack of knowledge of right behaviour.
- D. simplicity: This means being plain or uncomplicated, or sometimes naive. It isn't a direct match for "lack of knowledge."
Answer: Option B, inexperience, is the nearest in meaning.
Tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, always substitute each option into the sentence and test it. "Children often behave badly out of inexperience" reads naturally and keeps the meaning. Also watch for options that are only partly related, such as "illiteracy" for "ignorance," because they are common distractors.
AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.
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