WAEC 2015 English Language · Question 29

Modou is endowed with a great potential.

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. Modou is endowed with a great potential.

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

A.enlightened
B.provided
C.gifted
D.inspired

Answer: C. gifted

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the word closest in meaning to "endowed" in the sentence: Modou is endowed with a great potential.

Step 2: Explain the concept To be endowed with something means to be naturally given a quality, ability, or talent. For example, "She is endowed with beauty" means she naturally has beauty. The closest synonym is "gifted", meaning naturally possessing a talent or ability.

Step 3: Test each option

A. enlightened: means given knowledge or understanding. "Enlightened with a great potential" doesn't make sense.
B. provided: This is close, since "endowed with" can mean "provided with." But "provided" is general and doesn't carry the sense of natural qualities. It is the best distractor. "Provided with potential" sounds awkward.
C. gifted: means naturally having a talent or ability. "Modou is gifted with great potential" fits both meaning and usage.
D. inspired: means motivated or stimulated. It doesn't fit with "potential."

Step 4: Answer gifted**.

Tip: In "synonym in context" questions, replace the underlined word with each option and read the sentence aloud. Also remember that "endowed with" usually points to natural qualities (talent, beauty, intelligence), so think "gifted" or "naturally given."

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.