WAEC 2020 English Language · Question 11

When he received the news that he had lost the election, he did not bat an eyelid. This means that he

Question

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
B.stood perfectly still
C.was shocked to have lost the election
D.showed no feelings

Answer: D. showed no feelings

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question The sentence uses the idiom "did not bat an eyelid." You are asked to choose the meaning that fits best.

Explain the concept "Not bat an eyelid" (also "not bat an eye") means to show no sign of surprise, shock, or emotion when something unexpected or dramatic happens. It describes outward reaction, meaning the person's face and manner stayed calm.

Step-by-step solution

A. expected to lose the election: The idiom describes what he showed, not what he expected. He may have been surprised inside and just hidden it. Not the best choice.
B. stood perfectly still: This takes the idiom literally. It is about showing no reaction, not about body movement. Wrong.
C. was shocked to have lost the election: This is the opposite of the idiom's meaning. Wrong.
D. showed no feelings: This matches the idiom, since he displayed no visible emotion or reaction. Correct.

Answer: D. showed no feelings

Tip: For idiom questions, never take the words literally. Ask, "What is the figure of speech really saying?" Similar idioms include "keep a straight face" (hide emotion) and "not turn a hair" (show no reaction). Also eliminate options that give the opposite meaning, like C here.

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