Adaobi was appalled by the shabby appearance of the man who brought her the message from home.

Question analysis: The underlined word is "appalled". We need the option closest in meaning to it in this sentence.

Concept: To be appalled means to be greatly shocked or dismayed by something unpleasant, often something that seems very bad or unacceptable. It carries the idea of shock together with disapproval.

Step-by-step solution:

1. Look at the context. Adaobi saw the "shabby appearance" of the messenger. Her reaction to this unpleasant sight is strong surprise and dismay.
2. Test each option: • A. shocked: Matches. "Appalled" is basically a strong form of shocked. • B. discouraged: This means losing confidence or hope. Nothing in the sentence suggests that. • C. annoyed: This is milder irritation. "Appalled" is much stronger and is about shock, not mere irritation. • D. humiliated: This means being made to feel ashamed or lowered in dignity. Adaobi is not the one being embarrassed by the man's looks.
3. The best synonym is shocked.

Answer: A. shocked

Tip: Words like appalled, horrified, dismayed and shocked belong to one family: a strong negative reaction to something. When you meet an unfamiliar word in a "nearest in meaning" question, think of whether it feels positive or negative, then choose the option with the same feeling and strength.