WAEC 2021 English Language · Question 75

So much effluent has been poured into the stream that its water has become unsafe for drinking.

Question

choose the word or group of words that is nearest in meaning to the underlined word as it is used in the sentence. So much effluent has been poured into the stream that its water has become unsafe for drinking.

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

A.sewage
B.disinfectant
C.oil
D.concoction

Answer: A. sewage

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Step 1: Analyze the question The underlined word is effluent. We need the option closest in meaning to it, based on how it is used in the sentence.

Step 2: Explain the concept Effluent is liquid waste or sewage discharged into a river, stream, or sea, usually from factories, farms, or homes. It is a common word in environmental topics.

Step 3: Work through the sentence "So much effluent has been poured into the stream that its water has become unsafe for drinking."

The effluent pollutes the stream, so it must be a harmful waste liquid.
A. Sewage: liquid waste, which fits perfectly.
B. Disinfectant: this cleans and kills germs, so it would not make the water unsafe in this way. It is not a waste product.
C. Oil: oil is one possible pollutant, but it is too specific. Effluent is not defined as oil.
D. Concoction: a mixture of ingredients, such as a drink or medicine. It does not suggest waste.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is A. sewage.

Tip: Link effluent with flow out (the root is "flu", as in flow). Effluent is what flows out of factories and drains. In the exam, ask yourself, "What kind of thing makes a stream unsafe?" Waste fits better than anything else.

AI can make mistakes. Report anything that looks wrong.