WAEC 2019 English Language · Question 96

The new bank is fast becoming insolvent.

Question

Choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. The new bank is fast becoming insolvent.

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

A.inactive
B.ineffective
C.bankrupt
D.lax

Answer: C. bankrupt

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question: You need the word closest in meaning to "insolvent" in the sentence "The new bank is fast becoming insolvent."

Explain the concept: The word solvent describes a person or business that has enough money to pay its debts. The prefix in- means "not", so insolvent means unable to pay debts, or lacking enough money to meet financial obligations. The closest everyday word is bankrupt.

Solution, step by step:

Break the word down: in- (not) + solvent (able to pay debts) = not able to pay debts.
Test each option in the sentence: • A. inactive means not doing anything or not working. A bank can be inactive and still have plenty of money, so this doesn't fit. • B. ineffective means not producing the desired result. This is about performance, not money, so it is wrong. • C. bankrupt means unable to pay debts and financially ruined. This matches "insolvent" exactly. • D. lax means careless or not strict. This has nothing to do with finances.
Read the sentence with the answer: "The new bank is fast becoming bankrupt." This makes perfect sense and keeps the original meaning.

Answer: The correct option is C. bankrupt.

Exam tip: In vocabulary questions, split the word into its parts (prefix + root). Here, in- + solv- (think "dissolve", "solve", meaning to settle or clear) points to being unable to settle debts. Also, when a sentence involves a bank, look for money-related options.

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