WAEC 2023 English Language · Question 120

Choose the option that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will correctly fill…

Question

Choose the option that is most nearly opposite in meaning to the underlined word and that will correctly fill the gap in the sentence If one thing irritates you, it might another

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

A.concern
B.delight
C.invigorate
D.bother

Answer: B. delight

Explanation written with AI and checked against the answer key

Analyze the question

The sentence is garbled. The underlined word isn't shown, but "irritates" is clearly the key word. The sentence should read something like: "If one thing irritates you, it might __ another." You need a word that is most nearly opposite in meaning to "irritates" and also fits the gap.

Explain the concept

This is an antonym question. First, find the meaning of the key word:

Irritate means to annoy, vex, or bother.

The opposite of annoying someone is to please them, or to delight them.

Check each option

A. concern: This means to worry or involve. It is not the opposite of irritate, and it is close to "trouble."
B. delight: This means to please greatly. It is the direct opposite of annoy or irritate. ✔
C. invigorate: This means to energize or refresh. It is not the true opposite of irritate, because it is about energy rather than pleasure or annoyance.
D. bother: This is a synonym of irritate, not an opposite. ✘

Fit the sentence

"If one thing irritates you, it might delight another." This reads sensibly: what annoys one person may please someone else.

Answer: B. delight.

Tip: In antonym questions, first find the synonyms in the options (here, bother and concern) and eliminate them. Then pick the word that truly reverses the meaning. Also read the sentence back with your choice to check that it makes sense.

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