WAEC 2015 English Language · Question 71

from the list of words lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the…

Question

In each of the following sentences, 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 The officer was expected to be.....by his boss, but he was censured.

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

A.questioned
B.praised
C.decorated
D.guided

Answer: B. praised

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The underlined word is censured (it is not marked in the text, but the sentence makes it clear). You need a word that:

Is most nearly opposite in meaning to censured, and
Fits the gap grammatically and logically: "The officer was expected to be ____ by his boss, but he was censured."

Explain the concept

Censure means to criticise severely or to express strong disapproval. Its opposite is to express approval, which means praise or commend.

Step-by-step solution

A. questioned: This means interrogated, which is not the opposite of censure.
B. praised: This means to express approval or admiration, which is the direct opposite of censure. It fits the gap well: "expected to be praised by his boss, but he was censured."
C. decorated: This means awarded a medal or honour. It is a form of reward and could fit the gap. However, it is a specific, formal act rather than the general opposite of censure. It is also less natural in the context of a boss, because decorations usually come from government or a high authority.
D. guided: This means directed. It is not opposite in meaning to censure.

Answer

The best choice is B. praised. It is the direct antonym of censured and fits the sentence naturally.

Exam tip

In "opposite meaning" questions, first state the meaning of the underlined word in your own words (here, "strongly criticised"). Then pick the option that expresses the exact reverse (here, "approved of" or "praised"). Watch out for options like decorated that fit the context but are narrower in meaning than the true antonym.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.