Choose the interpretation that is most appropriate for each sentence. When he received the news that he had lost the election, he did not bat an eyelid. This means that he

A. expected to lose the election

C. was shocked to have lost the election

the word that receives the emphatic stress is written in capital letters. From the questions lettered A to D, choose the one to which the given sentence is the appropriate answer. OUR Mathematics teacher has been transferred.

A. Has their Mathematics teacher been transferred?

B. Has our Physics teacher been transferred?

C. Has our Mathematics teacher been promoted?

D. Has our Mathematics supervisor been transferred?

Choose the interpretation that is most appropriate for each sentence. People do not often rely on men who allow their exalted position to go to their head. This means that people shun those who

B. are conceited because of their position

C. are rude because of their position

WAEC (WASSCE) 2020 · Part 1 of 2

2020 WAEC (WASSCE) English Language Past Questions and Answers

The 2020 WAEC (WASSCE) English Language past questions with answers: 136 objective questions from the 2020 paper in the DeeepSolve question bank, each with its answer behind "Show answer". This is part 1 of 2: questions 1 to 68. Try each question before you check, then practise the paper as a timed WAEC-style CBT.

Practise this paper as a timed WAEC-style CBT All WAEC (WASSCE) English Language years

Questions 1–68

1.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. The boy came through the window as stealthily as he could.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.quietly
2. B.carefully
3. C.quickly
4. D.slowly
Show answer
Answer: A. quietly
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked for the word closest in meaning to "stealthily" in the sentence "The boy came through the window as stealthily as he could."
Explain the concept: "Stealthily" is the adverb form of "stealth." It means acting in a cautious, quiet, secret way so that no one notices you. The key idea is not being heard or detected. Think of a thief creeping in at night.
Solution, option by option:
A. quietly means making little or no noise. This matches the main idea of stealth, which is avoiding being heard or noticed. ✔
B. carefully means paying close attention to avoid mistakes or harm. Someone can be careful without being secretive, such as a surgeon or a driver, so this is not the same as stealth.
C. quickly means at speed. Stealth has nothing to do with speed.
D. slowly means at a low speed. A person moving stealthily may move slowly, but slowness is not the meaning of the word.
Answer: The nearest in meaning is A. quietly.
Tip: For vocabulary questions, ask, "What is the core idea of the word?" For "stealthily," the core idea is secret and silent. Remember: stealth = silent and secret. Be careful with "carefully," which is a tempting distractor, but it describes caution in general rather than quietness or secrecy.
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2.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following sentences. The librarian has not entered the new books in the__________
1. A.catalogue
2. B.roster
3. C.list
4. D.directory
Show answer
Answer: A. catalogue
AI explanation
Analyze the question The sentence is: "The librarian has not entered the new books in the __." We need the word that best fits a library context, where books are recorded.
Explain the concept Each option has a specific meaning:
Catalogue: a complete, organized record of books (or items) held in a library, usually arranged by author, title, or subject. This is the standard library term.
Roster: a list of names of people, such as duty or staff schedules. It is not used for books.
List: a general word for a set of items. It is grammatically possible, but it is vague and not the precise term for a library.
Directory: a listing of people, organizations, or addresses, such as a telephone directory. It is not used for a library's holdings.
Solution
The subject is "the librarian", and the action is recording new books.
Books held in a library are recorded in a catalogue.
"Roster" and "directory" are ruled out because they list people or addresses.
"List" could work in everyday speech, but "catalogue" is the most precise and best-fitting word.
Answer: A. catalogue
Exam tip When a question asks for the word that "best completes" the sentence, choose the most specific word for the context. Link words to their settings: library → catalogue, staff duties → roster, phone numbers → directory.
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3.
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. What I admire about our football team is that they love________
1. A.themselves
2. B.one another
3. C.the other
4. D.ourselves
Show answer
Answer: B. one another
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4.
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 bought a new set of_________television.
1. A.coloured
2. B.colour
3. C.colours
4. D.colouring
Show answer
Answer: B. colour
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5.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. fatal
1. A.hard
2. B.fat
3. C.beard
4. D.bail
Show answer
Answer: D. bail
AI explanation
The underlined letters aren't visible in the question, so we need to work out which vowel is most likely being tested in "fatal."
Step 1: Analyze the question "Fatal" is pronounced /ˈfeɪtl/. The stressed first syllable "fa" has the diphthong /eɪ/, as in "day."
The question normally underlines the "a" in the first syllable, which is the one with the clear sound. The second "a" is reduced to a weak sound (schwa or nearly silent), so the first "a" is the one that is tested.
Step 2: Find the sound of each option
A. hard: /hɑːd/ has the long vowel /ɑː/
B. fat: /fæt/ has the short vowel /æ/
C. beard: /bɪəd/ has the diphthong /ɪə/
D. bail: /beɪl/ has the diphthong /eɪ/
Step 3: Match the sounds "Fatal" has /eɪ/, and "bail" has /eɪ/. They match.
Step 4: Answer The correct option is D. bail.
Tip: In words like "fatal," "paper," "radio," and "label," the "a" in the first syllable is usually the long /eɪ/ sound. Do not be tricked by "fat," which looks similar but has the short /æ/ sound. In sound-matching questions, always compare how the words sound rather than how they are spelled.
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6.
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. Something must be wrong with the school driver, he is _________today.
1. A.rather driving carelessly
2. B.carelessly driving rather
3. C.driving rather carelessly
4. D.rather carelessly driving
Show answer
Answer: C. driving rather carelessly
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The sentence needs a correct word order in the present continuous tense: "he is __ today." We must place the verb (driving), the adverb of degree (rather), and the adverb of manner (carelessly) correctly.
Concept: In the continuous tense, the main verb (-ing form) normally comes right after "is." The adverb of manner ("carelessly") describes how the action is done, and it is modified by the intensifier ("rather"). So the intensifier comes directly before the adverb it modifies: rather carelessly. The adverb phrase then follows the verb: driving rather carelessly.
Step-by-step:
Start with "he is" and the main verb: "he is driving."
The adverb "carelessly" tells us how he is driving.
"Rather" is an intensifier modifying "carelessly," so it must sit right before it: "rather carelessly."
Result: "he is driving rather carelessly today."
Checking the options:
A. rather driving carelessly: "rather" wrongly modifies the verb, and the order is awkward.
B. carelessly driving rather: "rather" is left dangling at the end.
C. driving rather carelessly: correct and natural.
D. rather carelessly driving: the adverb phrase comes before the verb, which sounds unnatural in this context.
Tip: Remember the pattern verb + intensifier + adverb (e.g., "She is speaking very softly," "He is walking quite slowly"). The intensifier always stays attached to the adverb it strengthens.
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7.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. Dr. Azeez declined the offer to chair the meeting.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.rescinded
2. B.shunned
3. C.refused
4. D.avoided
Show answer
Answer: C. refused
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The underlined word is "declined" in the sentence: Dr. Azeez declined the offer to chair the meeting. We need the word closest in meaning in this context.
Concept: "Decline" (as a verb with "offer" or "invitation") means to politely say no to something offered. The closest synonym is "refuse."
Checking each option:
A. rescinded means to cancel or revoke something, such as a law or decision. It doesn't fit, because you rescind a decision you or an authority already made, not an offer made to you.
B. shunned means to deliberately keep away from a person or thing, usually out of dislike. It is too strong and does not describe turning down an offer.
C. refused means to say no to something offered. This matches "declined" exactly.
D. avoided means to keep away from or evade. Avoiding something is not the same as formally turning it down.
Answer: Dr. Azeez refused the offer to chair the meeting.
Tip: In "nearest in meaning" questions, always put each option back into the sentence. Remember the pairs: decline = refuse (an offer or invitation), decline = reduce (in other contexts, like "prices declined"). The context tells you which meaning to pick.
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8.
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. She wondered if the water was not_________hot for drinking.
1. A.very
2. B.so
3. C.much
4. D.too
Show answer
Answer: D. too
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The sentence is "She wondered if the water was not __ hot for drinking." We need a word that fits with "hot for drinking," showing a degree that makes the water unsuitable.
Concept: The structure too + adjective + for + noun/gerund expresses an excess: more than is needed or acceptable. For example, "The tea is too hot for drinking" means it is so hot that it cannot be drunk.
Testing each option:
A. very: "not very hot for drinking" is awkward. "Very" does not link naturally with "for drinking" to show a result or limit.
B. so: "so hot for drinking" is incomplete. "So" needs a result clause such as "so hot that...".
C. much: "not much hot" is ungrammatical. "Much" cannot directly modify an adjective like this.
D. too: "not too hot for drinking" is correct. It means she wondered whether the water was excessively hot and therefore unsafe to drink.
Correct sentence: She wondered if the water was not too hot for drinking.
Tip: Whenever you see an adjective followed by "for + something/doing something", think of "too." Remember: too + adjective + for/to = more than enough, so a problem arises. Examples: "too tired for work," "too heavy to lift."
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9.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the one that has the correct stress. overwhelming
1. A.O-ver-whelm-ing
2. B.o-VER-whelm-ing
3. C.o-ver-WHELM-ing
4. D.o-ver-whelm-ING
Show answer
Answer: C. o-ver-WHELM-ing
AI explanation
Analyzing the question: You are asked to pick the option that shows the correct stress pattern (the syllable pronounced with the most force) in the word "overwhelming".
Concept: Stress is placed on a particular syllable in a word. In the verb overwhelm /ˌoʊvərˈwɛlm/, the main stress falls on the root -whelm. The suffix -ing does not change the stress of the root, so the stress stays on whelm in "overwhelming".
Step-by-step solution:
Break the word into syllables: o – ver – whelm – ing (4 syllables).
Identify the root: whelm. The prefix over- has only secondary stress, and the suffix -ing is never stressed.
In standard pronunciation, the word is /ˌoʊvərˈwɛlmɪŋ/, where the primary stress is on the third syllable, whelm.
Check the options: • A. O-ver-whelm-ing: stress on the first syllable. This is incorrect, because the first syllable carries only secondary stress. • B. o-VER-whelm-ing: stress on the second syllable. This is incorrect, because ver is a weak syllable. • C. o-ver-WHELM-ing: stress on the third syllable. This is correct. • D. o-ver-whelm-ING: stress on the suffix. This is incorrect, because -ing is never stressed.
Exam tip: Words with prefixes like over-, under-, or out- followed by a verb root (for example overcome, understand, overwhelm) usually carry primary stress on the root verb. Also remember that suffixes like -ing, -ed, and -er do not attract stress.
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10.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following sentences. The appellate court has ________ the decision of the lower court.
1. A.obstructed
2. B.nullified
3. C.neutralized
4. D.balanced
Show answer
Answer: B. nullified
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The sentence is about what an appellate court (a higher court that hears appeals) does to the decision of a lower court. We need the verb that fits this legal context.
Explain the concept: An appellate court can uphold, reverse, overturn, set aside, or nullify a lower court's judgment. The word we need must mean "to make a decision legally invalid."
Step-by-step check of the options:
A. obstructed means blocked or hindered the progress of something. A decision is not "obstructed" in this sense. This does not fit.
B. nullified means declared legally void or invalid. An appellate court can nullify (cancel) a lower court's ruling. This fits perfectly.
C. neutralized means to counteract or cancel out the effect of something, as in neutralizing a threat or an acid. It is not used for court judgments. This does not fit.
D. balanced means to make equal or stable. It makes no sense with a court decision.
Answer: The best word is nullified, which is option B.
Tip: In legal English, look for words connected to judgments: nullify, overturn, quash, set aside, uphold, annul, revoke. When you see "appellate court" and "lower court," think of the higher court changing or cancelling the earlier ruling. Also remember that "null" means "no legal force" (as in "null and void"), which helps you recall that nullify means to make invalid.
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11.
Choose the interpretation that is most appropriate for each sentence. When he received the news that he had lost the election, he did not bat an eyelid. This means that he
1. A.expected to lose the election
2. B.stood perfectly still
3. C.was shocked to have lost the election
4. D.showed no feelings
Show answer
Answer: D. showed no feelings
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12.
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. I realized that i________you before.
1. A.had met
2. B.met
3. C.have met
4. D.meet
Show answer
Answer: A. had met
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13.
the word that receives the emphatic stress is written in capital letters. From the questions lettered A to D, choose the one to which the given sentence is the appropriate answer. OUR Mathematics teacher has been transferred.
1. A.Has their Mathematics teacher been transferred?
2. B.Has our Physics teacher been transferred?
3. C.Has our Mathematics teacher been promoted?
4. D.Has our Mathematics supervisor been transferred?
Show answer
Answer: A. Has their Mathematics teacher been transferred?
AI explanation
Analyze the question This is an emphatic stress question. The word in capital letters (OUR) carries the stress. The stressed word is the new or corrected information. The sentence answers a question in which that word was wrongly assumed or doubted.
Explain the concept Emphatic stress contrasts one word with another. If OUR is stressed, the speaker is correcting or contrasting "our" with some other possessive, such as "their", "your" or "his". Everything else in the sentence (Mathematics teacher has been transferred) is already known and is not in dispute.
Solution The sentence is: OUR Mathematics teacher has been transferred.
Test each option by asking which word the answer would need to stress:
A. Has their Mathematics teacher been transferred? The question is about "their" teacher. The reply "OUR Mathematics teacher has been transferred" corrects "their" to "our". The stress on OUR fits.
B. Has our Physics teacher been transferred? The reply would stress MATHEMATICS, not OUR.
C. Has our Mathematics teacher been promoted? The reply would stress TRANSFERRED.
D. Has our Mathematics supervisor been transferred? The reply would stress TEACHER.
Only option A makes the possessive the point of contrast.
Answer: A
Tip: Find the capitalised word in the answer, then look for the option where that exact word is the one that differs. That word is the one being corrected. Here, "their" in the question is replaced by "OUR" in the answer.
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14.
choose the word that has the same consonant sound(s) as ihe one represented by the leter(s) underlined. swine
1. A.one
2. B.new
3. C.know
4. D.seen
Show answer
Answer: A. one
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15.
Choose the most appropriate option for the gap labelled [....71.....] above
1. A.forgetfulness
2. B.carelessness
3. C.wickedness
4. D.doubtfulness
Show answer
Answer: A. forgetfulness
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16.
Choose the most appropriate option for the gap labelled [....78.....] above
1. A.expressway
2. B.traffic
3. C.highway
4. D.road
Show answer
Answer: A. expressway
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17.
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. While the refuse dump smelled fetid, the orchard exuded a_______Smell.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.fragrant
2. B.spicy
3. C.clean
4. D.dry
Show answer
Answer: A. fragrant
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The underlined word is "fetid", and we need the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning. It must also fit the gap describing how the orchard smells.
Explain the concept: "Fetid" means having an extremely unpleasant smell, such as rotten or stinking. Its antonym should describe a pleasant smell. The sentence also sets up a contrast: the refuse dump smelled bad, while the orchard gave off a ___ smell.
Solution, option by option:
A. fragrant means sweet-smelling or pleasant-smelling. It is the direct opposite of fetid, and an orchard with blossoms and ripe fruit naturally has a fragrant smell. ✔
B. spicy describes a smell like spices. It is not the opposite of "stinking", and it doesn't suit an orchard. ✘
C. clean is not specifically about smell. A thing can be clean yet have no scent at all, so it isn't a precise opposite. ✘
D. dry has nothing to do with smell. ✘
Answer: A. fragrant
Tip: In antonym questions that need a gap filled, first decide whether the word's meaning is about smell, size, quality and so on, then match that category. Memorize smell words: fetid, rancid, putrid, foul (bad) and fragrant, aromatic, sweet-scented (good).
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18.
Choose the most appropriate option for the gap labelled [....75.....] above
1. A.trainers
2. B.instructors
3. C.experts
4. D.teachers
Show answer
Answer: C. experts
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19.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. paint
1. A.plait
2. B.lisp
3. C.busy
4. D.late
Show answer
Answer: D. late
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20.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following sentences. The defeated boxer left the ring looking extremely_________
1. A.dislocated
2. B.distorted
3. C.desert
4. D.dejected
Show answer
Answer: D. dejected
AI explanation
Step 1: Analyze the question The sentence is: The defeated boxer left the ring looking extremely ____. We need a word describing how a boxer who has just lost would look, which means his feeling or mood.
Step 2: Explain the concept This is a vocabulary-in-context question. Look for clues in the sentence. The key clue is "defeated". It tells us the boxer lost, so the missing word should describe a sad or downcast state. The word "looking" also tells us we need an adjective.
Step 3: Examine each option
A. dislocated means displaced from its position, usually a joint such as a shoulder. It describes a bone, not a mood, and "looking extremely dislocated" doesn't fit.
B. distorted means twisted out of shape, as in a distorted image or sound. It doesn't describe the feeling of a defeated person.
C. desert is a noun meaning a dry, sandy region (or a verb meaning to abandon). It is not an adjective that can follow "looking extremely".
D. dejected means sad, low-spirited and disheartened. This fits a boxer who has just lost his fight.
Step 4: Answer The correct option is D. dejected.
Sentence completed: The defeated boxer left the ring looking extremely dejected.
Exam tip: Whenever you see a word like "defeated", "failed" or "lost", look for an option showing sadness (dejected, downcast, despondent). Also check the part of speech: after "looking extremely", you need an adjective. Be careful with look-alike words that start with the same letters (dis-, des-). They are often distractors.
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21.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. Mrs. Okpala gave the drunk a contemptuous look.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.happy
2. B.sorrowful
3. C.knowing
4. D.scornful
Show answer
Answer: D. scornful
AI explanation
Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is contemptuous. We need the option closest in meaning to it, as used in "Mrs. Okpala gave the drunk a contemptuous look."
Step 2: Explain the concept Contemptuous is the adjective form of contempt, which means a feeling that someone or something is worthless or deserves no respect. A contemptuous look is a look that shows disrespect, disdain, or scorn.
Step 3: Work through the options
A. happy: A happy look shows joy. This is the opposite of what contempt shows. ❌
B. sorrowful: This shows sadness or pity, not disrespect. ❌
C. knowing: This suggests she understood or was aware of something, with no sense of disdain. ❌
D. scornful: This means showing contempt or mockery. It matches contemptuous closely. ✅
Step 4: Context check Someone looking at a drunk person is likely to show disapproval or disdain. "Scornful" fits perfectly.
Answer: D. scornful
Tip: Link words to their roots. Contempt → contemptuous → scorn, disdain, disrespect. Other synonyms to remember for exams are disdainful, derisive, and sneering. Learning clusters of synonyms like this helps you answer "nearest in meaning" questions quickly.
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22.
In the following options lettered A to D, all the words except one have the same stress pattern. Identify the one with the different stress pattern.
1. A.undo
2. B.ado
3. C.unless
4. D.legal
Show answer
Answer: D. legal
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23.
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. The police officer was sacked because he gave_________the command's secret.
1. A.off
2. B.in
3. C.away
4. D.up
Show answer
Answer: C. away
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The sentence needs a phrasal verb that means to reveal or disclose something secret. The police officer was sacked because he did this with the command's secret.
Explain the concept: The verb "give" forms different phrasal verbs depending on the particle that follows it:
give off means to emit (smell, heat, light). Example: "The gas gives off a bad smell."
give in means to surrender or yield. Example: "He gave in to pressure." It does not take a direct object like "secret."
give away means to reveal or disclose, or to hand something over for free. Example: "He gave away the secret."
give up means to quit or surrender. Example: "She gave up smoking."
Step-by-step solution:
The sentence says he was sacked for what he did with a secret.
The action must be revealing or leaking the secret.
"Give off" would mean emit, which makes no sense for a secret.
"Give in" means surrender, and it does not fit with an object.
"Give up the secret" could loosely mean to surrender or divulge it under pressure. However, the standard idiom for betraying or leaking a secret is "give away", and it fits best here.
Answer: The correct option is C. away.
Tip: Remember the collocation "give away a secret" (also "give the game away"). When a question is about disclosing information, think "give away." "Give up" usually goes with quitting a habit or surrendering.
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24.
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. We got to the hall after the płay________started.
1. A.is
2. B.have
3. C.had
4. D.was
Show answer
Answer: C. had
AI explanation
Analyze the question
The sentence is: "We got to the hall after the play ____ started." We need the word that correctly completes the verb phrase with "started."
Explain the concept
When two past events happen one after the other, we use:
Simple past for the later event (we got to the hall)
Past perfect (had + past participle) for the earlier event (the play started)
The past perfect shows that one action was already completed before another past action.
Show the solution
"We got to the hall" is in the simple past, so it is the later event.
The play started before we arrived, so it is the earlier event and needs the past perfect: had started.
Checking the other options: • A. "is started" is present tense and passive. It does not fit a past situation. • B. "have started" is present perfect and clashes with the past tense "got." • D. "was started" is passive and awkward. A play does not "get started" by itself in this context, and the sentence needs the past perfect. • C. "had started" is the past perfect and is correct.
Answer
The correct option is C. had.
Tip: When you see after or before linking two past events, look for the past perfect (had + past participle) on the event that happened first. For example: "After she had eaten, she left."
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25.
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. Mary shouldn't have disobeyed the teacher,_________?
1. A.should she
2. B.didn't she
3. C.did she
4. D.could he
Show answer
Answer: A. should she
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26.
Choose the most appropriate option for the gap labelled [....74.....] above
1. A.document
2. B.papers
3. C.licence
4. D.particulars
Show answer
Answer: B. papers
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27.
Choose the interpretation that is most appropriate for each sentence. People do not often rely on men who allow their exalted position to go to their head. This means that people shun those who
1. A.are highly placed
2. B.are conceited because of their position
3. C.are rude because of their position
4. D.do not do their work
Show answer
Answer: B. are conceited because of their position
AI explanation
Analyze the question
The sentence says people do not often rely on men "who allow their exalted position to go to their head." We need the option that best interprets this.
Explain the concept
Exalted position means a high or lofty rank.
To go to one's head is an idiom meaning to become conceited, arrogant, or overly proud because of success, power, or praise.
So the sentence is not criticising people for having a high position. It criticises those who let that position make them proud.
Solution
A. are highly placed: This is wrong. Being highly placed is only the "exalted position". The problem is what the person does with it.
B. are conceited because of their position: This is correct. "Go to their head" means they become conceited or arrogant.
C. are rude because of their position: Rudeness can be a result of conceit, but the idiom specifically means being puffed up with pride. Rudeness is too narrow and is not the direct meaning.
D. do not do their work: Nothing in the sentence says this.
Answer: B
Tip: For idiom questions, find the idiom, work out its figurative meaning, and then eliminate options that only describe the literal part of the sentence (here, "highly placed"). Remember that "go to one's head" = become conceited.
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28.
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. The audience applauded the last speaker, but the first was
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.booed
2. B.rejected
3. C.abused
4. D.scorned
Show answer
Answer: A. booed
AI explanation
Analyze the question You are asked for the word most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word, "applauded", that also fits the gap. The sentence is: "The audience applauded the last speaker, but the first was __."
Explain the concept "Applaud" means to show approval by clapping or cheering. Its opposite is to show disapproval loudly, and the word that does this is boo. The question has two tests, so each option must pass both:
It must be opposite in meaning to "applauded".
It must fit the sentence grammatically and naturally.
Step-by-step solution
A. booed: This is the direct opposite of applauding, because both are audience reactions, one of approval and one of disapproval. It fits the sentence: "the first was booed."
B. rejected: This means refused or turned down. It is not a typical way for an audience to respond to a speaker, and it is not a direct opposite of clapping.
C. abused: This means insulted or mistreated. It is stronger and does not specifically mean showing disapproval of a performance.
D. scorned: This means treated with contempt. It is an attitude, not a vocal or audible reaction like applause, so it is a weaker opposite.
Answer The best choice is A. booed. The complete sentence reads: "The audience applauded the last speaker, but the first was booed."
Exam tip For opposite-in-meaning questions with a gap, ask yourself what the same kind of action is in reverse. Applause is an audible show of approval, so its reverse is an audible show of disapproval, which is booing. Also check that the word fits the sentence grammatically (here, a past participle after "was").
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29.
Choose the most appropriate option for the gap labelled [....77.....] above
1. A.permit
2. B.clearance
3. C.authority
4. D.order
Show answer
Answer: A. permit
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30.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the one that has the correct stress. melancholy
1. A.MEL-an-chol-y
2. B.mel-AN-chol-y
3. C.mel-an-CHOL-y
4. D.mel-an-chol-Y
Show answer
Answer: A. MEL-an-chol-y
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked to pick the option that shows the correct stress pattern (the syllable pronounced with the most force) in the word melancholy.
Explain the concept: In English, stress falls on a particular syllable in a word. Many three- and four-syllable words ending in -y (like category, memory, melody) put the main stress on the first syllable. Stress also tends to avoid the final "-y" ending, which is weak.
Step-by-step solution:
Break the word into syllables: mel – an – chol – y (4 syllables).
Check the dictionary pronunciation: /ˈmelənkəli/, where the stress mark (ˈ) comes before the first syllable "mel".
Test the options: • A. MEL-an-chol-y: stress on the first syllable ✔ • B. mel-AN-chol-y: the second syllable is a weak vowel (/ə/), so it cannot carry stress ✘ • C. mel-an-CHOL-y: the third syllable is also weak (/kə/) ✘ • D. mel-an-chol-Y: the final -y is never stressed here ✘
Answer: A. MEL-an-chol-y
Tip: Compare melancholy with similar words such as MEL-o-dy, MEM-o-ry, and CEM-e-ter-y. Words ending in unstressed "-y" with a pattern of consonant + weak vowel usually keep the stress at the beginning. Also, the "an" and "chol" syllables contain the weak vowel /ə/, and weak vowels almost never take primary stress.
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31.
choose the word that has the same consonant sound(s) as ihe one represented by the leter(s) underlined. most
1. A.sniffed
2. B.though
3. C.think
4. D.listen
Show answer
Answer: D. listen
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32.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following sentences. The manager was not in when Addo called, so he left his ________ card.
1. A.supplementary
2. B.complimentary
3. C.complementary
4. D.identification
Show answer
Answer: B. complimentary
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33.
choose the word that has the same consonant sound(s) as ihe one represented by the leter(s) underlined. zoo
1. A.stature
2. B.cease
3. C.days
4. D.leisure
Show answer
Answer: C. days
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34.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. jeopardy
1. A.check
2. B.people
3. C.probe
4. D.fired
Show answer
Answer: A. check
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The word is "jeopardy" and the underlined part is not shown, but in this classic WASSCE question it is the "eo" in jeopardy. We need the word whose vowel sound matches it.
Explain the concept: In "jeopardy" /ˈdʒepədi/, the letters "eo" are pronounced as the short vowel /e/, as in "bed" or "head". The spelling is irregular, so you must rely on the sound, not the letters.
Step-by-step solution:
Pronounce "jeopardy": JEP-ar-dee. The "eo" gives /e/.
Check each option: • A. check /tʃek/: the vowel is /e/. Match. • B. people /ˈpiːpl/: the "eo" gives /iː/. No match. • C. probe /proʊb/: the vowel is /oʊ/. No match. • D. fired /ˈfaɪəd/: the vowel is the diphthong /aɪə/. No match.
Answer: The vowel sound in "jeopardy" is /e/, the same as in "check".
Tip: "People" and "jeopardy" both contain "eo", but they sound different. In sound-matching questions, ignore the spelling, say each word aloud, and compare only the vowel sound. Words like "leopard", "jeopardy", and "Geoffrey" use "eo" for /e/, while "people" uses it for /iː/.
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35.
choose the word that rhymes with the given word. receipt
1. A.unkempt
2. B.dealt
3. C.deceit
4. D.leapt
Show answer
Answer: C. deceit
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You need the word that rhymes with "receipt". Rhyme depends on sound, not spelling, so the "p" and "ei" spelling can mislead you.
Explain the concept: Words rhyme when their vowel sound and the sounds after it match. The silent "p" in "receipt" is the trap. Say it aloud and you hear /rɪˈsiːt/. It ends in the long "ee" sound followed by "t".
Solution, step by step:
Pronounce "receipt": /rɪˈsiːt/. The ending is -eet.
Check each option: • A. unkempt /ʌnˈkempt/ ends in "-empt", which does not match. • B. dealt /delt/ has a short "e" sound, so it does not match. • C. deceit /dɪˈsiːt/ ends in -eet, a perfect match. Both words also share the "-ceipt/-ceit" pattern, which makes them sound alike. • D. leapt /lept/ has a short "e" sound, even though "leap" itself has a long vowel. This is a common trap.
Answer: The word that rhymes with "receipt" is deceit, option C.
Tip: Ignore the spelling and say each word aloud. Watch out for silent letters, as in "receipt", and for irregular past forms such as "leapt" and "dealt", which have short vowels. Words with "-ceit" and "-ceipt" (receive, deceit, conceit, receipt) share the same long "ee" sound.
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36.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that contains the sound represented by the given phonetic symbol. /ʃ/
1. A.badge
2. B.catch
3. C.bastion
4. D.edition
Show answer
Answer: D. edition
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word that contains the sound /ʃ/, the "sh" sound as in ship or machine.
Concept: In English, the /ʃ/ sound is often spelled in ways other than "sh". Common patterns include:
-tion (nation, station)
-ssion (mission)
-ci-/-ti- before a vowel (special, patient)
ch in words of French origin (machine)
Check each option:
A. badge is /bædʒ/. The "dge" gives /dʒ/ (as in judge), not /ʃ/.
B. catch is /kætʃ/. The "tch" gives /tʃ/ (as in church), which is close to /ʃ/ but not the same sound. It is an affricate, not a pure "sh".
C. bastion is usually /ˈbæstiən/ or /ˈbæstʃən/. The "-tion" after "s" is pronounced /tʃ/ (as in question), not /ʃ/. So this is a trap option.
D. edition is /ɪˈdɪʃən/. The "-tion" after a vowel sound gives /ʃ/, so it contains the sound.
Answer: D. edition
Tip: Look at what comes before "-tion". After a consonant "s" or "x" (as in question, bastion, mixture), it usually sounds like /tʃ/. After a vowel or other consonants (as in edition, nation, action), it sounds like /ʃ/. Also remember: /ʃ/ is "sh", while /tʃ/ is "ch" and /dʒ/ is "j".
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37.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. It is absurd that people find it difficult to be honest
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.strange
2. B.abnormal
3. C.alarming
4. D.interesting
Show answer
Answer: A. strange
AI explanation
Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is absurd in the sentence: "It is absurd that people find it difficult to be honest." We need the option closest in meaning to it.
Step 2: Understand the concept Absurd means illogical, ridiculous, or unreasonable, something that goes against common sense. In this sentence, the speaker is saying it makes no sense that honesty, which should be natural and expected, is hard for people.
Step 3: Test each option
A. strange: Something odd and hard to make sense of. This fits well, since the speaker finds the situation puzzling and contrary to reason.
B. abnormal: This means deviating from a standard or norm, which is a more technical or clinical sense. It doesn't capture the "senseless" feeling, and difficulty with honesty is, sadly, fairly common.
C. alarming: This means causing worry or fear. The sentence expresses disbelief, not fear.
D. interesting: This is neutral and positive, but absurd is a criticism, so it doesn't match.
Step 4: Conclusion Of the options given, strange is the closest in meaning to absurd in this context. It is not a perfect synonym (ridiculous or illogical would be better), but it is the best fit among the choices.
Exam tip: When no option is a perfect synonym, ask yourself, "Which word could replace the original without changing the speaker's attitude?" Here the speaker is expressing disbelief or criticism, not fear or interest. Also, eliminate options that carry a different emotion (alarming, interesting) first.
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38.
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. __________ are often quite caring.
1. A.mother-in-law
2. B.mother-in-laws
3. C.mothers-in-laws
4. D.mothers-in-law
Show answer
Answer: D. mothers-in-law
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The sentence needs a plural noun, because the verb is "are". So we need the correct plural of the compound noun "mother-in-law".
Explain the concept: In compound nouns formed with hyphens (noun + preposition + noun), the main word takes the plural "s", not the last word. The main word here is "mother", since a mother-in-law is a kind of mother.
Examples:
brother-in-law → brothers-in-law
sister-in-law → sisters-in-law
passer-by → passers-by
commander-in-chief → commanders-in-chief
Solution:
"are" shows a plural subject, so A (mother-in-law) is wrong because it is singular.
B (mother-in-laws) puts the "s" on the wrong part, so it is wrong.
C (mothers-in-laws) pluralizes both words, so it is wrong.
D (mothers-in-law) pluralizes only the main word "mother". This is correct.
Complete sentence: Mothers-in-law are often quite caring.
Tip: For hyphenated compounds like these, ask yourself "which word is the actual person or thing?" Pluralize that word only. The words after it (in-law, by, of-state) usually stay unchanged.
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39.
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. That book is neither_________
1. A.his or yours
2. B.his not yours
3. C.his nor yours
4. D.his own nor yours
Show answer
Answer: C. his nor yours
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40.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. canoe
1. A.truce
2. B.pull
3. C.doe
4. D.shore
Show answer
Answer: A. truce
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The underlined part of "canoe" isn't shown here. In "canoe" (/kəˈnuː/), the stressed vowel sound is the long /uː/, spelled "oe". The question most likely underlines "oe", so we match that sound.
Concept: The spelling "oe" can be pronounced in different ways:
/uː/ as in canoe and shoe
/əʊ/ as in doe, toe and foe
So we need to match the sound, not the spelling.
Check each option:
A. truce /truːs/ has the long /uː/ sound. This matches canoe.
B. pull /pʊl/ has the short /ʊ/ sound. It is different from /uː/.
C. doe /dəʊ/ has the /əʊ/ sound. It has the same spelling as canoe but a different sound. This is the trap option.
D. shore /ʃɔː/ has the /ɔː/ sound. It is different.
Answer: A. truce has the same /uː/ vowel sound as canoe.
Tip: WASSCE often includes a distractor with the same spelling but a different sound (here, doe). Always say the words aloud in your head and compare the sounds, not the letters. Remember the pairs canoe–truce–shoe–blue (all /uː/), and keep pull (short /ʊ/) separate from pool (long /uː/).
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41.
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. The boy had been warned not to_________the money given to him.
1. A.loosen
2. B.loose
3. C.lost
4. D.lose
Show answer
Answer: D. lose
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42.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that contains the sound represented by the given phonetic symbol. /k/
1. A.civil
2. B.choral
3. C.chore
4. D.choose
Show answer
Answer: B. choral
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word that contains the consonant sound /k/ (the sound at the start of "cat" or "kite").
Concept: In English, the letter "c" and the letter combination "ch" can each be pronounced in different ways. Here are the sounds that matter:
"c" before e, i, or y is usually soft, sounding like /s/ (e.g., "city").
"ch" is usually /tʃ/ (e.g., "chair"), but in words of Greek origin it is often /k/ (e.g., "chemist", "school", "chorus").
Solution, option by option:
A. civil: The first "c" comes before "i", so it is soft and sounds /s/. The word is /ˈsɪvl/. The sounds are /s/, not /k/. ❌
B. choral: This comes from Greek "chorus", so "ch" is pronounced /k/. The word is /ˈkɔːrəl/. It starts with /k/. ✅
C. chore: Here "ch" is /tʃ/, so the word is /tʃɔː/. ❌
D. choose: "ch" is /tʃ/, so the word is /tʃuːz/. ❌
Answer: The correct option is B. choral, which begins with /k/.
Tip: Words of Greek origin with "ch" usually take the /k/ sound: choir, chorus, chemistry, character, school, echo, ache, stomach. Common everyday words like chair, church, choose, chore, chin take /tʃ/. A word that sounds like "chorus" is a good clue for "choral."
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43.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. Worst
1. A.fiery
2. B.cord
3. C.put
4. D.worship
Show answer
Answer: D. worship
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The word is "worst" (the underlined part is likely "or"). We need the word whose underlined vowel sound matches the vowel sound in "worst".
Explain the concept: In "worst", the letters "or" after a "w" are pronounced as the long central vowel /ɜː/ (as in "bird", "fur", "term"). Normally "or" sounds like /ɔː/ (as in "cord"), but after "w" it changes.
Show the solution: Let's check each option.
A. fiery /ˈfaɪəri/: the vowel sound is a diphthong /aɪə/. This is not a match.
B. cord /kɔːd/: the vowel is /ɔː/. This is not a match, because "or" here is the normal /ɔː/ sound.
C. put /pʊt/: the vowel is the short /ʊ/. This is not a match.
D. worship /ˈwɜːʃɪp/: the "wor" is pronounced /wɜː/, the same vowel sound as in "worst" /wɜːst/. This is a match.
Answer: D. worship.
Tip: Remember the "wor" rule: when "wor" begins a syllable, it usually sounds like /wɜː/, as in work, world, worm, worth, worst, worship. It does not sound like /wɔː/. Keep this pattern in mind for similar vowel-sound questions.
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44.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. heart
1. A.lust
2. B.clear
3. C.star
4. D.heat
Show answer
Answer: C. star
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45.
Choose the most appropriate option for the gap labelled [....79.....] above
1. A.distance
2. B.control
3. C.mileage
4. D.limit
Show answer
Answer: B. control
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46.
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. Only some of the accused were acquitted: the rest were________
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.remanded
2. B.convicted
3. C.detained
4. D.interdicted
Show answer
Answer: B. convicted
AI explanation
Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is "acquitted" (found not guilty and freed). We need the word that is most nearly opposite in meaning and also fits the gap logically.
Step 2: Explain the concept
Acquit means to declare someone not guilty of a crime.
The direct opposite is convict, which means to declare someone guilty of a crime after a trial.
Step 3: Test the options
A. Remanded means sent back into custody, or held, while awaiting trial or further hearing. This happens before a verdict, not after one, so it is not the opposite of acquitted.
B. Convicted means found guilty. It is the exact opposite of acquitted, and it fits the sentence: "Only some of the accused were acquitted: the rest were convicted."
C. Detained means held in custody. It does not refer to a verdict.
D. Interdicted means formally prohibited or restrained, and in some contexts suspended from duty. It has nothing to do with a verdict of guilt.
Step 4: Answer The correct option is B. convicted.
Tip: Learn legal word pairs together:
acquit ↔ convict
plaintiff ↔ defendant
guilty ↔ innocent
When you see "acquitted" in an opposite-meaning question, look for "convicted" or "condemned" first.
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47.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. The boy was reluctant to carry out the order of his senior
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.adamant
2. B.slow
3. C.sluggish
4. D.unwilling
Show answer
Answer: D. unwilling
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48.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that contains the sound represented by the given phonetic symbol. /g/
1. A.gnash
2. B.target
3. C.gnaw
4. D.sing
Show answer
Answer: B. target
AI explanation
Analyze the question: We need the word that contains the sound /g/ (the hard "g" as in go). Pay attention to the sound, not just the spelling.
Explain the concept: The letter "g" can represent different sounds:
/g/ as in go, bag, target
/dʒ/ as in gem, giant
Silent, as in gnash, gnaw (the "g" before "n" at the start of a word is silent)
/ŋ/ as in sing, long, where "ng" together makes one nasal sound and no separate /g/ is heard
Solution, option by option:
A. gnash /næʃ/: the "g" is silent, so there is no /g/.
B. target /ˈtɑːgɪt/: the "g" is pronounced as a hard /g/, so this word has the sound.
C. gnaw /nɔː/: the "g" is silent, so there is no /g/.
D. sing /sɪŋ/: "ng" represents the single sound /ŋ/, so there is no /g/.
Answer: B. target
Tip: Words starting with "gn" (gnat, gnome, gnaw, gnash) always have a silent "g". Also, "ng" at the end of a word (sing, king, long) is usually /ŋ/, not /g/. Always say the word aloud in your head and listen for the actual sound.
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49.
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. Power has not been restored_________many parts of the town.
1. A.to
2. B.in
3. C.of
4. D.with
Show answer
Answer: A. to
AI explanation
Analyze the question The sentence is "Power has not been restored __ many parts of the town." We need the correct preposition after "restored" to show the place where electricity has not yet returned.
Explain the concept The verb restore can take different prepositions depending on meaning:
restore something to someone/something: the thing is given back to its owner or returned to a condition. Example: "The land was restored to its owners." / "Power was restored to the hospital."
restore something in a place is less common, but "restored in" can describe a place where something is brought back.
In a standard sentence on power supply, Nigerian and British usage prefers "restored to" when the power is returned to a place or to people. For example: "Electricity has been restored to the affected areas."
Step-by-step solution
The structure is passive: "Power has not been restored ___ many parts of the town."
The "many parts of the town" are the recipients of the returned power.
The natural collocation is "restored to (the areas/the town)".
Check the other options: • in: it could sound acceptable, as in "power outage in many parts", but it is not the standard collocation with restore here. • of: this is wrong, because "restored of" is not an English structure. • with: this is wrong, because "restored with" suggests the means used, not the recipient.
Answer The best completion is A. to: "Power has not been restored to many parts of the town."
Tip Remember "restore X to Y". Think of it as giving something back to someone or somewhere: "restored to its owner", "restored to normal", "restored to health". When you see restore, test "to" first.
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50.
choose the word that has the same consonant sound(s) as ihe one represented by the leter(s) underlined. height
1. A.house
2. B.heir
3. C.honest
4. D.hour
Show answer
Answer: A. house
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The underlined letter(s) in "height" aren't shown here, but the word begins with h, which is the most likely target. In "height" the h is pronounced /h/ (as in /haɪt/). We need the option whose h is also pronounced /h/.
Concept: In English, the letter h is usually pronounced /h/, but in some words it is silent. These are mostly words borrowed from French, and you should learn them:
heir, honest, honour, hour (silent h)
Checking each option:
A. house /haʊs/. The h is pronounced /h/. ✔
B. heir /eə/. The h is silent. ✘
C. honest /ˈɒnɪst/. The h is silent. ✘
D. hour /ˈaʊə/. The h is silent. ✘
Answer: Only "house" has the same /h/ sound as "height".
Tip: Memorize the "silent h" group: heir, honest, honour, hour (also honourable, hourly). If an option is not one of these, its h is probably pronounced. In such questions, eliminate the silent-h words first.
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51.
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. The team practised intensely for weeks before the match________it lost.
1. A.still yet
2. B.for
3. C.yet
4. D.despite
Show answer
Answer: C. yet
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52.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that contains the sound represented by the given phonetic symbol. /ŋ/
1. A.know
2. B.chance
3. C.lean
4. D.living
Show answer
Answer: D. living
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word containing the sound /ŋ/. This is the "ng" sound, as at the end of sing.
Explain the concept: /ŋ/ is a velar nasal. The back of the tongue touches the soft palate and air passes through the nose. It is usually spelled:
ng (as in sing, long, living)
n before k or g sounds (as in think /θɪŋk/, finger /fɪŋɡə/)
Solution: check each option
A. know is /nəʊ/. It has the /n/ sound (the k is silent). No /ŋ/.
B. chance is /tʃɑːns/. The n is followed by /s/, so it stays as plain /n/. No /ŋ/.
C. lean is /liːn/. It ends in plain /n/. No /ŋ/.
D. living is /ˈlɪvɪŋ/. The "ng" at the end is pronounced /ŋ/. Yes.
Answer: D. living
Tip: Look for "ng" at the end of a word, as in -ing endings. In these words the "g" is not pronounced separately, and the "ng" makes one nasal sound. Be careful with words like chance or lean: they have "n", but it is not the /ŋ/ sound unless the n comes before a /k/ or /g/ sound (e.g., bank, angry).
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53.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. Even a mediocre student can pass that test.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.dull
2. B.fresh
3. C.average
4. D.lazy
Show answer
Answer: C. average
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You need the word closest in meaning to "mediocre" as used in the sentence: "Even a mediocre student can pass that test."
Explain the concept: "Mediocre" (adjective) means of only moderate quality, neither good nor bad, just ordinary or middling. It often carries a slightly negative tone, suggesting "not outstanding." The word "even" in the sentence tells us the test is so easy that a student who is merely ordinary can still pass it.
Step-by-step solution:
A. dull: This describes someone slow-witted or boring. A mediocre student is not necessarily dull, so this is not the best fit.
B. fresh: This means new or recently made. It has nothing to do with ability, so it is wrong.
C. average: This means ordinary, neither excellent nor poor. It matches "mediocre" most closely.
D. lazy: This describes a lack of effort. Mediocre refers to level of performance, not attitude, so it is wrong.
Answer: The sentence means "Even an average student can pass that test.
Exam tip: Think of the "med" in mediocre as in "medium" (the middle). A mediocre person is in the middle, so average. In synonym questions, you can also replace the word in the sentence with each option and see which one keeps the meaning unchanged.
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54.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. bear
1. A.her
2. B.year
3. C.fare
4. D.pie
Show answer
Answer: C. fare
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The word is "bear" and the underlined part is presumably "ear". We need the option whose vowel sound matches it. In "bear", "ear" is pronounced /eə/ (the vowel in "air" or "care").
Concept: English spelling doesn't always match pronunciation, so "ear" can be pronounced in several ways:
bear /beə/ → /eə/
year /jɪə/ → /ɪə/
her /hɜː/ → /ɜː/
fare /feə/ → /eə/
pie /paɪ/ → /aɪ/
Step by step:
Say "bear": the vowel sound is the diphthong /eə/, as in "air".
A. her has /ɜː/, so it does not match.
B. year has /ɪə/, as in "ear" or "here". This is a common trap because the spelling "ear" looks the same, but the sound is different.
C. fare has /eə/, which matches "bear".
D. pie has /aɪ/, so it does not match.
Correct answer: C. fare
Tip: In sound questions, ignore the spelling and say each word aloud. Remember the "ear" family has different sounds: bear/pear/wear → /eə/, but hear/year/dear → /ɪə/, and learn/earth → /ɜː/. Words that rhyme in sound, not spelling, give you the answer.
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55.
choose the word that rhymes with the given word. firm
1. A.born
2. B.worm
3. C.burn
4. D.girl
Show answer
Answer: B. worm
AI explanation
Analyze the question: We need the word that rhymes with "firm". Rhyming words have the same vowel sound and ending sound.
Explain the concept: Rhyme depends on sound, not spelling. "Firm" is pronounced /fɜːm/. The vowel is the long "er" sound (as in her), followed by the "m" sound. So we look for a word with the /ɜː/ vowel plus /m/.
Solution:
A. born /bɔːn/: vowel is "aw", ending in "n". Does not rhyme.
B. worm /wɜːm/: the "or" here is pronounced like "er" (irregular spelling), and it ends in "m". This matches /ɜːm/. Rhymes with firm.
C. burn /bɜːn/: same vowel, but ends in "n", not "m". Only partly similar, so it does not rhyme.
D. girl /gɜːl/: same vowel, but ends in "l". Does not rhyme.
Answer: B. worm. Both firm and worm share the /ɜːm/ sound.
Tip: Always say the words aloud and compare the vowel + final consonant. Spelling can be misleading (for example, "wor" in worm sounds like "fir" in firm). Options like burn and girl are traps: they share the vowel but not the ending.
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56.
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. We do not accept the punishment__________the boy.
1. A.meted to
2. B.meted on
3. C.meted out to
4. D.meted in to
Show answer
Answer: C. meted out to
AI explanation
Step 1: Analyze the question The sentence is: "We do not accept the punishment __ the boy." We need the correct phrasal verb that goes with "punishment" and "the boy."
Step 2: Explain the concept The verb mete is almost always used in the phrasal verb "mete out", meaning to give or administer (a punishment, justice, or treatment). The person who receives the punishment is introduced with "to".
So the correct pattern is: mete out + punishment/justice + to + person
Examples:
The judge meted out a harsh sentence to the offenders.
The principal meted out severe punishment to the students.
Step 3: Evaluate the options
A. meted to: "mete" needs the particle "out," so this is incomplete.
B. meted on: the wrong preposition, and "out" is missing.
C. meted out to: correct, because it uses the full phrasal verb "mete out" plus "to" for the recipient.
D. meted in to: "mete in" does not exist.
Step 4: Correct sentence "We do not accept the punishment meted out to the boy."
Tip: Remember the pattern "mete OUT to." Whenever you see mete, think of out. It is almost never used alone. Similar phrasal verbs for giving things to people include dish out to and hand out to.
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57.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following sentences. Coming from the kitchen was the sweet ________ of Mummy's soup.
1. A.aroma
2. B.odour
3. C.fragrance
4. D.scent
Show answer
Answer: A. aroma
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58.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following sentences. There is an election _________ pending against the senator.
1. A.application
2. B.appeal
3. C.petition
4. D.complaint
Show answer
Answer: C. petition
AI explanation
Analyze the question
The sentence is: "There is an election ___ pending against the senator." We need a word that fits with "election" and "pending against" someone, which suggests a legal or formal challenge to the result of an election.
Explain the concept
In Nigerian political and legal English, when a candidate or party challenges the outcome of an election, they file an election petition at an Election Petition Tribunal. This is a fixed collocation: "election petition."
Step-by-step elimination
A. application: This is a general request (e.g., for a job or admission). "Election application" is not a standard phrase.
B. appeal: An appeal is made to a higher court against a court's decision. It can be pending, but "election appeal" is not the usual phrase for the initial challenge to a senator's victory.
C. petition: A formal written request or complaint to a tribunal or court. "Election petition" is the standard term, and it is commonly "pending" before a tribunal.
D. complaint: This is too general and informal. It is not the usual legal term for challenging an election.
Answer
The correct word is petition, which is option C.
Tip
Learn common collocations, since WASSCE English often tests them: election petition, file a petition, pending before the tribunal. When a question mentions an election being challenged against a winner, think "petition."
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59.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the one that has the correct stress. calculation
1. A.CAL-cu-la-tion
2. B.cal-CU-la-tion
3. C.cal-cu-LA-tion
4. D.cal-cu-la-TION
Show answer
Answer: C. cal-cu-LA-tion
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60.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. Womb
1. A.book
2. B.fool
3. C.comb
4. D.bomb
Show answer
Answer: C. comb
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61.
choose the word that rhymes with the given word. flood
1. A.chord
2. B.cud
3. C.curd
4. D.call
Show answer
Answer: B. cud
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word that rhymes with "flood." Rhyming words share the same vowel sound and ending sound.
Explain the concept: In English, the spelling "oo" does not always give the same sound. In "flood," the "oo" is pronounced /ʌ/ (like the "u" in "bud"), so "flood" is pronounced /flʌd/.
Solution, step by step:
Write the sound of "flood": /flʌd/. The ending is /ʌd/.
Check each option: • A. chord is /kɔːd/. The vowel is long "aw", so it does not rhyme. • B. cud is /kʌd/. The ending is /ʌd/, the same as "flood", so it rhymes. • C. curd is /kɜːd/. The vowel is the long "er" sound, so it does not rhyme. • D. call is /kɔːl/. Both the vowel and the final consonant are different, so it does not rhyme.
Answer: The word "cud" (the food a cow chews again) rhymes with "flood.
Tip: Do not rely on spelling when choosing rhymes. Say each word aloud and listen to the vowel and the ending sound. Other words that rhyme with "flood" are blood, mud, bud, and thud. Notice that "blood" and "flood" are spelled with "oo" but sound like "u."
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62.
Choose the interpretation that is most appropriate for each sentence. My grandmother once told me that old habits die hard. This means that old habits are
1. A.easily corrected
2. B.difficult to change
3. C.short-lived
4. D.forever changing
Show answer
Answer: B. difficult to change
AI explanation
Step 1: Analyze the question The sentence uses an idiom: "old habits die hard." You are asked to choose the meaning that best fits it.
Step 2: Explain the concept An idiom has a meaning that is different from the literal meaning of its words. "Die hard" here means "to take a long time to disappear" or "to resist ending." So the saying means that habits we have had for a long time are very difficult to stop or change.
Step 3: Work through the options
A. easily corrected: This is the opposite of the idiom's meaning. Eliminate it.
B. difficult to change: This matches the meaning. Habits "die hard" because they are hard to get rid of.
C. short-lived: This means they do not last long, but the idiom says they persist. Eliminate it.
D. forever changing: This suggests habits keep changing, which is not what the idiom says. Eliminate it.
Step 4: Answer The correct option is B. difficult to change.
Exam tip: For idiom questions, first work out what the phrase suggests as a whole, then look for the option that matches it. Watch out for options that mean the opposite, like A here. Examiners often include them to catch students who rush. Other similar idioms are "a leopard cannot change its spots" and "habit is second nature."
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63.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. The match came to an abrupt end when the rain started.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.sharp
2. B.brisk
3. C.quick
4. D.sudden
Show answer
Answer: D. sudden
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64.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that best completes each of the following sentences. The textbook is very costly; I cannot_________ it to my students.
1. A.commit
2. B.afford
3. C.endorse
4. D.recommend
Show answer
Answer: D. recommend
AI explanation
Analyze the question: We need the word that best completes: "The textbook is very costly; I cannot _ it to my students."
Explain the concept: This tests word choice and collocation (which verb naturally pairs with "it to my students"). The structure is verb + object + to + person.
Check each option:
A. commit: You can "commit something to someone" (entrust), but it doesn't fit the idea of suggesting a book to students. Unnatural here.
B. afford: This looks tempting because the book is costly. But "afford" does not take the structure "afford it to my students." You would say "I cannot afford it" (without "to my students"). So it doesn't fit grammatically.
C. endorse: This means to publicly support or approve. It is usually used without "to someone" ("endorse a product"), and it is less natural than "recommend" here.
D. recommend: "Recommend something to someone" is a perfect collocation. Since the book is expensive, the teacher cannot suggest it to students. The meaning and grammar both fit.
Solution: "The textbook is very costly; I cannot recommend it to my students."
Tip: When a blank is followed by "to + person," test the verb's pattern. Recommend something to someone is a standard pattern, while afford never takes "to someone." Watch out for words that fit the meaning of the first clause (like "afford" with "costly") but break the grammar.
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65.
choose the word that has the same vowel sound as the one represented by the letter(s) underlined. boil
1. A.coy
2. B.soul
3. C.how
4. D.mode
Show answer
Answer: A. coy
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word with the same vowel sound as the "oi" in boil.
Explain the concept: The letters "oi" in boil make the diphthong /ɔɪ/, which sounds like "oy." A diphthong is a vowel sound that glides from one sound to another within the same syllable. The /ɔɪ/ sound can be spelled "oi" (boil, coin, join) or "oy" (boy, toy, coy).
Solution, step by step:
boil is pronounced /bɔɪl/, so the vowel sound is /ɔɪ/.
Check each option: • A. coy is /kɔɪ/, with the vowel sound /ɔɪ/. This matches. • B. soul is /soʊl/, with the vowel sound /oʊ/. This does not match. • C. how is /haʊ/, with the vowel sound /aʊ/. This does not match. • D. mode is /moʊd/, with the vowel sound /oʊ/. This does not match.
Answer: The correct option is A. coy, which has the same /ɔɪ/ sound as "boil."
Tip: In English, "oi" and "oy" almost always produce the same sound. When you see "oi" in a question, look for an option spelled with "oy" (boy, toy, joy, enjoy). Say each word aloud quickly to confirm the match.
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66.
From the words lettered A to D, choose the word that contains the sound represented by the given phonetic symbol. /æl
1. A.bag
2. B.park
3. C.get
4. D.class
Show answer
Answer: A. bag
AI explanation
Analyze the question: You are asked to find the word that contains the vowel sound /æ/. This is the short "a" sound, as in cat, man, flat.
Explain the concept: /æ/ is a short front vowel. Your mouth opens fairly wide and your tongue stays low and forward. Don't confuse it with:
/ɑː/ (as in park, car), the long "ah" sound
/e/ (as in get, bed), a shorter, higher vowel
Work through each option:
A. bag is /bæɡ/. It has the /æ/ sound. ✔
B. park is /pɑːk/. It has the long /ɑː/ sound. ✘
C. get is /ɡet/. It has the /e/ sound. ✘
D. class is /klɑːs/ in standard British English (the pronunciation used in WASSCE). It has /ɑː/, not /æ/. ✘ (In American English class is /klæs/, but Nigerian exams follow British English.)
Answer: The only word with /æ/ is bag, so the correct option is A.
Tip: Words like class, grass, past, fast, answer, dance are tricky. In British English they take /ɑː/, not /æ/. Words with a short "a" before a hard consonant, such as bag, cat, map, hat, black, take /æ/. When in doubt, say the word aloud: if your mouth opens wide, as in "ah", it is /ɑː/, not /æ/.
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67.
choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. Bimbo was satisfied with the result she got.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.positive
2. B.surprised
3. C.contented
4. D.appeased
Show answer
Answer: C. contented
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The underlined word is "satisfied" in the sentence "Bimbo was satisfied with the result she got." We need the word closest in meaning.
Explain the concept: To be satisfied with something means you feel it is good enough and you have no complaint about it. This is the idea of being pleased with what you have or have received.
Check each option:
A. positive: This means optimistic or certain. A person can be positive about something, but it doesn't mean "pleased with a result" in this sense.
B. surprised: This means shocked or caught off guard. It has nothing to do with being pleased or having no complaint.
C. contented: This means happy and at ease with what one has. It matches "satisfied with the result" very well.
D. appeased: This means calmed or pacified, usually after anger or a demand (for example, appeasing an angry person). It suggests settling someone's anger, not simple happiness with a result.
Tip: For synonym questions, put each option back into the sentence: "Bimbo was contented with the result she got." It reads naturally and keeps the meaning. Also watch for options like "appeased" that look close but carry a different shade of meaning (calming anger).
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68.
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. It would have been my pleasure to accept your invitation but I have to ________ it because of a previous engagement.
This question refers to an extract from the original paper, which isn't shown here.
1. A.jettison
2. B.defer
3. C.suspend
4. D.decline
Show answer
Answer: D. decline
AI explanation
Analyze the question: The sentence says the speaker would have been pleased to accept the invitation, but a previous engagement prevents it. The word that fills the gap must therefore mean "refuse." The underlined word is presumably "accept," and the answer must be its opposite.
Concept: Accept means to receive or agree to something offered. Its antonym is decline, refuse or reject. When we turn down an invitation, the correct verb is "decline."
Checking each option:
A. jettison means to throw something overboard or discard it. It is not used for invitations.
B. defer means to postpone. It is not the opposite of accept, and it doesn't fit the idea of refusing because of a previous engagement.
C. suspend means to put on hold temporarily or to hang. It does not fit.
D. decline means to politely refuse. It is the direct opposite of "accept" and fits the gap: "I have to decline it because of a previous engagement."
Answer: D. decline.
Tip: In "opposite meaning plus fill the gap" questions, first read the sentence for its logic ("would have accepted, but..." signals refusal). Then check that the word also works with the object. We decline an invitation, offer or request. Remember: Accept ↔ Decline.
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2020 WAEC (WASSCE) English Language Past Questions and Answers

Questions 1–68

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