WAEC 2018 English Language · Question 29

In the following sentence, there is an underlined word and one gap. From the list of words lettered A to D…

Question

In the following sentence, there is an underlined word and one gap. From the list of words lettered A to D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will at the same time, correctly fill the gap in the sentence. As erroneous as it might sound, the Headmaster's assumption was quite _______

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

A.wise
B.correct
C.precise
D.faulty

Answer: B. correct

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The underlined word is "erroneous", which means wrong or mistaken. We need a word that:

Is most nearly opposite in meaning to "erroneous", and
Fits the gap in "the Headmaster's assumption was quite ___".

Concept

The sentence uses the structure "As [adjective] as it might sound, ... was quite [opposite]". It means that although something sounds wrong, it is actually right. So the gap needs a word meaning right or accurate.

Check each option

A. wise: This means sensible or showing good judgment. It is not the direct opposite of "erroneous", because an assumption can be wise without being factually accurate.
B. correct: This means free from error. It is the direct antonym of "erroneous" and fits the sentence: "As erroneous as it might sound, the Headmaster's assumption was quite correct."
C. precise: This means exact or detailed. It is about exactness, not about being right or wrong, so it is not the opposite of "erroneous".
D. faulty: This means flawed, which is a synonym of "erroneous". It is the opposite of what we need.

Answer

The best choice is B. correct.

Tip

In "opposite meaning" questions, first find the synonym trap (here, "faulty"). Then pick the word that is the true antonym. Also use sentence clues like "As ... as it might sound", which signal a contrast.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.