WAEC 2019 English Language · Question 18

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

Question

Choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. marry

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

A.batter
B.barter
C.perk
D.martyr

Answer: A. batter

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The word is "marry" and the underlined part is most likely the first vowel, "a" (the underlining didn't show in the text). In "marry" /ˈmæri/, the "a" is the short vowel /æ/, as in "cat."

Explain the concept

In this type of question, ignore spelling and match the sound. Say each word aloud and note the vowel in the underlined position.

Work through the options

A. batter /ˈbætə/: the "a" is /æ/. This matches "marry."
B. barter /ˈbɑːtə/: the "a" is the long /ɑː/, as in "father." No match.
C. perk /pɜːk/: the vowel is /ɜː/. No match.
D. martyr /ˈmɑːtə/: the "ar" is /ɑː/. No match.

Answer

Only "batter" has the short /æ/ sound found in "marry.

Tip

Watch out for "ar" spellings. When "ar" is followed by another consonant (barter, martyr, market), it is usually the long /ɑː/. But when "a" comes before "rr" (marry, carry, barrel), it is usually the short /æ/. Whenever the underlined part isn't clear, test the vowel by saying the word slowly.

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