WAEC 2017 English Language · Question 24

sour — choose the word that has the same vowel sound(s) as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined

Question

From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that has the same vowel sound(s) as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. sour

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

A.flower
B.damn
C.sore
D.pure

Answer: A. flower

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: We need the word whose vowel sound matches the vowel sound in "sour". The underlined letters are not shown, but in "sour" the vowel sound is "ou", which is the diphthong /aʊ/ (with the "r" often pronounced as /aʊə/ in many accents).

Explain the concept: "Sour" is pronounced /saʊə/ (or /saʊr/). The "our" spelling gives a diphthong /aʊ/ followed by a schwa. Match by sound, not spelling.

Solution: Let's check each option:

A. flower is /ˈflaʊə/. The "ow" + "er" gives /aʊə/, which is the same sound as in "sour". ✔
B. damn is /dæm/. The vowel is /æ/. ✘
C. sore is /sɔː/. The vowel is /ɔː/. ✘
D. pure is /pjʊə/. The vowel is /ʊə/. ✘

"Sour" and "flower" are near-perfect rhymes, and both have the triphthong/diphthong sound /aʊə/.

Correct answer: A (flower)

Tip: Watch out for "sour" vs "sore". They look similar but sound different. Always say the words aloud (or in your head) and compare the sounds. Words like hour, power, tower, flower, shower all share the /aʊə/ sound with "sour".

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.