WAEC 2021 English Language · Question 16

Ali plays the guitar with great dexterity.

Question

choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. Ali plays the guitar with great dexterity.

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

A.wisdom
B.experience
C.pride
D.skill

Answer: D. skill

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question You are asked to find the word closest in meaning to "dexterity" as used in the sentence: Ali plays the guitar with great dexterity.

Step 2: Explain the concept "Dexterity" (noun) means skill or ease in using the hands (or body) to perform a task. It comes from the Latin dexter, meaning "right hand", the hand most people use more skillfully. Someone with dexterity is adept, nimble, and handy.

Step 3: Test each option

A. wisdom: good judgment from knowledge and life experience. It has nothing to do with physical handling of an instrument. ✗
B. experience: a person can have experience without being skilled, so it does not carry the meaning of nimbleness or ability. ✗
C. pride: a feeling of self-respect or arrogance, not an ability. ✗
D. skill: the ability to do something well, especially with the hands. Replace it in the sentence: "Ali plays the guitar with great skill." This fits perfectly. ✓

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D. skill.

Tip 💡 Link dexterity to "dexter" = right hand = handy = skill. In "nearest in meaning" questions, always put each option back into the sentence and see which one keeps the original meaning. Related words to learn: adroitness, deftness, proficiency, and nimbleness.

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