The electricity supply in this community is erratic.

Step 1: Analyze the question You are asked to find the word closest in meaning to erratic as used in "The electricity supply in this community is erratic."

Step 2: Explain the concept Erratic means not even, regular, or consistent; it describes something that does not follow a fixed pattern and cannot be relied on. Think of a power supply that comes and goes with no schedule (typical NEPA/"light" experiences in many Nigerian communities!).

Step 3: Test each option

• A. unpredictable: You cannot tell when the power will come or go. This matches erratic well.
• B. disorderly: This describes unruly behaviour, such as a rowdy crowd. It is not used for a supply of electricity.
• C. low: This refers to the amount or level of supply, not its consistency. Erratic power may be high at one moment and off the next.
• D. temporary: This means lasting only for a short time. It says nothing about irregularity.

Step 4: Answer The best synonym for erratic in this context is A. unpredictable.

Step 5: Exam tip Remember the word family: erratic = irregular = inconsistent = unpredictable. It comes from the Latin errare, "to wander," so something erratic "wanders" without a steady path. When you see a synonym question, plug each option into the sentence and pick the one that keeps the meaning unchanged: "The electricity supply in this community is unpredictable" works perfectly.