WAEC 2022 English Language · Question 2

Obi's family is known for their audacity, so one is surprised at his …

Question

In each of the following sentences, there is one underlined word and one gap. From the list of words lettered A-D, choose the one that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will, at the same time correctly fill the gap in the sentence. Obi's family is known for their audacity, so one is surprised at his ______

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

A.cowardice
B.irritabilty
C.moodiness
D.insolence

Answer: A. cowardice

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

This is a lexis and structure question. You must pick a word that:

Is opposite in meaning to the underlined word, "audacity".
Fits the gap in the sentence logically.

Explain the concept

"Audacity" means boldness or daring (it can also mean rude boldness). Its opposite is therefore a word meaning fearfulness or lack of courage.

Solution

The sentence says: Obi's family is known for their audacity, so one is surprised at his __.

The word "surprised" tells us Obi behaves differently from his family. They are bold, so he must be timid or fearful.

Checking each option:

A. cowardice: lack of courage. This is the direct opposite of audacity, and it makes sense: "surprised at his cowardice."
B. irritability: being easily annoyed. This is not the opposite of boldness.
C. moodiness: being given to changing moods. This is unrelated.
D. insolence: rude boldness. This is close to audacity, so it is a synonym, not an opposite.

Answer: A. cowardice

Tip: In "opposite meaning and fills the gap" questions, look for contrast clues such as "surprised", "but" and "however". They tell you the missing word should be the opposite of the underlined one. Also watch out for options like D that are synonyms, since examiners include them as traps.

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