WAEC 2020 English Language · Question 46

Only some of the accused were acquitted: the rest were …

Question

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________

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

A.remanded
B.convicted
C.detained
D.interdicted

Answer: B. convicted

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

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.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.