WAEC 2017 English Language · Question 119

The magnificent structure was erected close to our house

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 underlined word as it used in the sentence. The magnificent structure was erected close to our house

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

A.real
B.splendid
C.colorful
D.fine

Answer: B. splendid

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is "magnificent" in the sentence: "The magnificent structure was erected close to our house." We need the word closest in meaning.

Step 2: Explain the concept "Magnificent" means very impressive, grand, or beautiful in appearance. It describes something that makes people admire it because of its size, beauty, or quality.

Step 3: Test each option

A. real: means genuine or actual. It has nothing to do with grandeur, so it is wrong.
B. splendid: means grand, impressive, and excellent. It is a very close synonym of "magnificent."
C. colorful: means having many colours. A structure can be colourful without being magnificent, so it is wrong.
D. fine: means good or of high quality. It is related, but it is much weaker than "magnificent" and lacks the sense of grandeur. It is a possible distractor.

Step 4: Answer "Splendid" is the best match because it carries both the sense of beauty and the sense of grandeur, just as "magnificent" does.

Exam tip: In synonym questions, don't just pick a word that is vaguely positive. Match the strength of the word. "Magnificent" is a very strong word, so look for an equally strong one, like "splendid," "grand," or "majestic," rather than a mild one like "fine" or "good."

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.