WAEC 2018 English Language · Question 76

He is a doctor but he dabbles … politics now and then.

Question

From the words or group of words lettered A to D, choose the word or group of words that best completes each of the following sentences. He is a doctor but he dabbles _______ politics now and then.

A.in
B.through
C.on
D.into

Answer: A. in

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: This tests knowledge of prepositions that go with particular verbs. The verb here is dabble, and we need the preposition that normally follows it.

Explain the concept: "Dabble" means to take part in an activity casually or without serious commitment. It is followed by in when it refers to a field or activity:

She dabbles in painting.
He dabbles in stocks.

"Dabble at" is also occasionally used, but "dabble in" is the standard form in exams. "Dabble" also has a literal meaning of splashing something in water (for example, "dabble in the stream" or "dabble one's feet in water"), and this too uses in.

Solution, step by step:

The sentence says he is a doctor, but "now and then" he takes part in politics. This shows casual involvement, which is exactly what "dabble" means.
Test each option: • A. dabbles in politics: correct, this is the standard collocation. • B. dabbles through politics: wrong, it suggests passing through something. • C. dabbles on politics: wrong, "on" is not used with this verb. • D. dabbles into politics: wrong, "into" shows movement toward or entry, and it is not the usual form after "dabble".

Correct answer: A. in

Tip: Learn verb + preposition pairs as fixed phrases: dabble in, specialize in, believe in, participate in, indulge in. When you see "dabble," think "dabble IN."

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