WAEC 2017 English Language · Question 18
After the following sentence, a list of possible interpretations is given. Choose the interpretaion that is…
Question
After the following sentence, a list of possible interpretations is given. Choose the interpretaion that is most appropriate for the sentence. Let us draw a veil over this matter. This means that we should
- A.avoid discussing the matter
- B.take the matter to court
- C.cover our heads with a veil
- D.get the elders to resolve the matter
Answer: A. avoid discussing the matter
Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key
Analyze the question: The sentence uses an idiom, "draw a veil over", and you must choose the option that matches its figurative meaning, not the literal one.
Explain the concept: To draw a veil over something means to stop talking about it, usually because it is embarrassing, unpleasant, or best forgotten. A veil covers or hides things, so the idiom means to hide the matter from discussion.
Step-by-step solution:
- Option A: avoid discussing the matter. This matches the idiom. We "cover" the matter by not talking about it any more.
- Option B: take the matter to court. This is the opposite, because going to court brings the matter into the open.
- Option C: cover our heads with a veil. This is the literal meaning, which is a trap. Idioms are rarely meant literally.
- Option D: get the elders to resolve the matter. This also involves discussing the matter, so it does not fit the idea of hiding it.
Answer: The correct option is A. avoid discussing the matter.
Tip: In idiom questions, eliminate the literal option first (here, C). Then ask whether the phrase suggests hiding or revealing. "Draw a veil over" means hide, so think "let's say no more about it". A similar idiom is "let sleeping dogs lie".
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